Finally Getting My VF500F Interceptor Up and Running

Discussion in 'Introductions' started by jacksonwalters, Jul 26, 2013.

Tags:
  1. jacksonwalters

    jacksonwalters New Member

    Country:
    United States
    Joined:
    Aug 14, 2010
    Messages:
    18
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    1
    Location:
    Boston, MA
    Map
    Greetings & salutations! My name is Jackson, I'm from VA, and I'm pretty stoked to jump into this world.

    So I bought my first motorcycle, a 1984 VF500F Interceptor w/ ~16K, about 3 years ago off Craigslist with the help of a friend. I was 19 at the time and had just gotten my license, but never got around to insuring, titling, registering, or bringing the bike down to school (my parents also weren't super excited to find out I'd bought it). I'm now 22, on the brink of financial independence, and have decided to finally get everything in order. I just got back from the DMV with fresh title & plates and now all that remains is to get it running again and have it inspected.

    The bike ran great when I first bought it, but it has been sitting covered outside since then. I emptied the tank before I let it sit, which I guess is a good thing, but I tried turning the key today and got absolutely nothing (as in nothing on the dash lit up). I'm a total noob but I'm pretty sure that means the battery is dead. I'm thinking if I get a new battery, spark plug, and fresh fuel with some SeaFoam it might have a shot at running. My friend also suggested I clean the carbs (which I have no idea how to do but I guess could consult the manual). Is there anything else I should or shouldn't do to try and get it running?

    Thanks!
     

    Attached Files:

    jacksonwalters, Jul 26, 2013


    This site may contain affiliate links for which VFRworld may be compensated
    #1
  2. derstuka

    derstuka Lord of the Wankers Staff Member

    Joined:
    Jan 25, 2007
    Messages:
    6,733
    Likes Received:
    193
    Trophy Points:
    108
    Location:
    San Diego, CA
    Map
    Hello and welcome Jackson from VA! Sorry that we missed you boss.

    M/C batteries are very small compared to car batteries, and lose their charge fairly quickly, especially if left outdoors. If it has sit outside for 3 years, I would suggest really going thru it to look for vermin (mice, squirrels, etc) to see if they made a nest in your airbox, under your seat, chewed up your wiring, etc. Storing a bike outside can really open up a can of worms. Changing/purging all fluids (oil, brake fluid, coolant, gas, etc) and filters should be on your list.

    If you drained the tank, hopefully, you drained the carb float bowls as well, or else you probably are gonna have yourself a gummy mess once you do manage to get that biatch fired up. Do heed your friend's suggestion about the carbs. However, you should know what you are doing, and/or have someone who does with you....or else you risk causing more of a mess than you are fixing. Having a manual is must. Most likely, a new battery is in order....at least IMO.

    If you need more info on VF500's...squirrelman, and jamiedaugherty are your men with the know-how.

    Happy trails....

    :vtr2:
     
    derstuka, Aug 5, 2013


    This site may contain affiliate links for which VFRworld may be compensated
    #2
  3. squirrelman

    squirrelman Member

    Country:
    United States
    Joined:
    Jul 27, 2006
    Messages:
    10,185
    Likes Received:
    877
    Trophy Points:
    128
    Location:
    Buffalo, NY
    Map
    Sure enuff, i'm ready, willing and able to go through his carbs. I always insist that owners inspect, flush, and clean their fuel tanks while i'm fixin on their carbs so my immaculate cleaning efforts don't get spoiled by noxious tank filth.:tongue:
     
    squirrelman, Aug 5, 2013


    This site may contain affiliate links for which VFRworld may be compensated
    #3

Share This Page