Advice on Reassembling '74 Commando

I am doing a complete restoration on my '74 Mk2 U.S. import Commando.

I have had the frame, swing arm and all other components that require painting painted in either gloss black or silver. I have purchased new a pre Mk3 gearbox cradle, centre stand, swing arm bushes and all associated pieces, spindle, etc.

What is the best way to assemble the parts (engine, gearbox, cradle, swing arm) and assemble them into the frame?

Can they be assembled together first and then fitted into the frame ?

If they need to be fitted to the frame separately - order of assemble please?

Thanks

Don

thunderbolt said:

Can they be assembled together first and then fitted into the frame ?

Click to expand...

Yes. Not sure which previous thread is quoted above, but it was previously discussed here that the engine and gearbox were factory assembled into the gearbox cradle, which was then laid on its clutch side and the bike lowered (on its side) down onto it. And then the swingarm attached, gearlever and kickstart lever fitted, etc.

I sat the assembled engine/gearbox on its side on some carpet, and fitted the bare frame down onto it.
This was really easy for one person, no heavy or awkward lifting anywhere.
You just then stand the bike up (still on the carpet), and continue.
Getting it up onto a workbench until it has wheels on it may be a little tricky though.

If you use the original Lucas horn, make sure it is fitted VERY early, it has been joked the bikes were built around it. And its true !!

I personally assemble the chassis to rolling, then install the transmission, then the power unit, then the top end. Heaviest thing to lift is the assembled crankcase, and I'm 59 years old and wirey.

http://www.accessnorton.com/ricks-mkiii-roadster-resto-furb-t24131-105.html