This is a continuation of a post I started in the Cafe forum. For those of you who don't frequent The Cafe forum and don't feel like checking over there, I'll give you a short version of what it was about. Basically, a buddy of mine had to leave in a hurry and left behind a stock '86 Savage in neglected condition, due to it sitting outdoors for 8 or more years. Got it in my garage this week, and this is what I'm looking at:

http://imgur.com/a/fd80G#JJUJfq9

As for myself, I consider myself to be a junior mechanic, at best. My limitations are lack of experience more so than a lack of understanding. I have a background in drafting and engineering, I do my own auto repairs and what I can with my '04 Savage, though I have never tore an engine apart and put it back together. I am not the type to do things willy-nilly. Do it right or don't even bother. Just being honest with you guys. I'm hoping that I can, with some help with you guys, get a decent running bike. This is not about turning a profit or making some decked out chopper, my ultimate goal is to completely conquer the Savage, get to know her inside and out, and let her keep me warm on those chilly summer nights.  

There is about 500 questions I want to ask, mostly because I am taking the training wheels off and going in balls deep, but I do realize my answers will be scattered across this forum. However, as of right now, here are my biggest questions:

1. I understand that I need to see if it will run before I get too deep into this. Before I attempt this, I'm thinking I should remove the tank (the inside is splotched with rust), rig up a fuel can to deliver fuel to the carb, give it juice and see what happens. There is oil left in the crankcase, about 1/4 of the window, though should I dump that old crud and do an oil change, or just pour some more on top? This is to determine if it will run, nothing more.

2. Is there a way to give the bike power without using a battery? Admittedly, electrical is not my strong point, but I understand the basics (I changed my tail lights myself! .

3. Should I get myself a Clymers manual? I have a kind of poor quality one on my pc, plus all of the info provided in the technical reference section. The photo CD seems to be like it would be a big help.

4. What kind of tools should I be using? I have all of your basic hand tools, sockets, screwdrivers, vice grips, those kinds of things. I do not have, though I wish I had a compressor, nor do I think I could afford one any time soon.

There will be plenty of pictures to come. I like to be meticulous and I want to document my every move. Since I think it should be said, if getting this bike is already too far gone, I'll be taking every decent part left on it and it'll be going up in FS forum.

Looking forward to doing this!

I would change the oil  

Yes you need a battery, fortunately you have one on your other scoot  

Basic tools should be fine, use what you have till you need something else  

When I was learning to work on cars and bikes back in the 80's I always found it handy having a manual at my fingertips, I still prefer a book over on the web because it's there where I need it