Isolastics

I need a scooter on the road and since I have a low mile (4800miles) MkIII that is only missing the top end and cosmetics, I thought I might just make it roadworthy and take my time rebuilding the one I've owned since 1976 (we have traveled the country together!). But then, going through the mental checklist of what I would HAVE to replace, the isolastics came to mind.

So my question is; does anybody know what the chances are that the rubbers are serviceable and not deteriorated? It's been stored indoors for all of its life (though not climate controlled). I know it's a gamble to not to rebuild them but is it worth taking the chance?

Opinions please...

Mike

Hi Mike,
My bike sat for thirty plus years and the rubber in the swing arm had deteriorated. I think this was just from supporting the weight of the bike. I need to rebuild mine and am looking forward to hearing more on this topic.

The front is very easy to drop off complete. It's worth taking it off and have a look over it. If there's no rust and the rubbers haven't sagged too much much, stick back on.
If they're the same age then the back should be no worse than the front. Just check there's movement in it, adjust both sets and ride.
I'd also check over the top steady and exhaust mounts, replace if there's any cracking.

I would second the idea of looking at the front to see what you find. I would suggest however that (and this from experience) any bike that has sat around that long will need not just new isolastics but new seals, gaskets, etc.

I would go so far as to suggest that you might as well pull the gearbox, do the layshaft bearing and get at the rear isolastic while you are at it!

Russ

Mike when I replaced the isos on my '74 I was suprised to find them in serviceable condition. Sagging a bit, yes, but they still worked and were not deteriorated. I've seen some nasty iso photos here on the forum, so I'm guessing that storage conditions matter a lot. I would take Rich's suggestion and inspect the fronts and if they look Ok just shim both and ride it.

You guys are right, I need to forget the "quick fix" brainphart I had. I was working from the point of view of what's the easiest/fastest way for me to get two wheels on the ground and running. But everything needs to be gone through whether I like it or not. Plus I have a sweet cam and drivetrain in my grey bike with tranny upgrades etc. It was fun for a minute