RRussellTx - 1974 Commando 850 Project

RussellTx · Feb 13, 2025

htown16 said:
Are you rotating the sprocket while attempting to shift the gearbox?

Yep, that helps a bunch but it still seems like it should be easier to hit the gears.
I'm going forward with the assumption that it's normal, but I tend to worry about everything...

htown16 · Feb 13, 2025

I've always found dry shifting more crunchy than when riding. As long as you can get all four gears I wouldn't worry about it at this point. If you are still having problems when riding it is likely the hair pin needs a slight adjustment. Easy to do with bike assembled just pull the outer gearbox cover. One reason to never use gasket sealer on both sides of that gasket.

RussellTx · Apr 22, 2025

Another overdue update:

Finally got the Engine back from Big D Cycles last week and got it installed yesterday.
I also got the front wheel and tire ready.

Working on the rear wheel and installing the Primary side next.

After that, I'm looking for an order of assembly for all the smaller bits,

Battery Box, Ham can Air Filter, Carbs, Oil Tank, Electrical etc...
If anyone has a favorite list then I would appreciate you sharing it!

htown16 · Apr 22, 2025

Install the battery tray and the horn before you go much further. It's impossible to access once you get the wheel and fender fitted. Test it first. Fit the small sub harness at the same time.

seanalex · Apr 23, 2025

maybe its just me, but looking at that table . . . with no straps on the bike . . . makes me incredibly nervous.

that being said, wheels, front end, and everything else looks incredible. nicely done!

grandpaul · Apr 23, 2025

Mighty spiffy!

Great project...

Saber · Apr 23, 2025

Like watching one get built at the factory. Looking good. Did you "hang" some weight with the head steady to lighten the vertical load on the isolastics?

RussellTx · Apr 24, 2025

Saber said:
Did you "hang" some weight with the head steady to lighten the vertical load on the isolastics?

Not on purpose, but I'll look into that.
Thanks for the tips!

grandpaul · Apr 24, 2025

RussellTx said:
Not on purpose, but I'll look into that.
Thanks for the tips!

Definitely add the springs and saddle, (to the head steady) and you'll be right as rain.

acotrel · Apr 24, 2025

That motor is the same as mine. I would disassemble it and rebuild it with new big-end shells and main bearings. None of it is rocket science. Get a workshop manual.

Fast Eddie · Apr 25, 2025

acotrel said:
That motor is the same as mine. I would disassemble it and rebuild it with new big-end shells and main bearings. None of it is rocket science. Get a workshop manual.

Wow, you’re hardcore. You would strip an engine and replace the big end shells and main bearings immediately after receiving it back from having a professional engine rebuild ??

robs ss · Apr 25, 2025

acotrel said:
That motor is the same as mine. I would disassemble it and rebuild it with new big-end shells and main bearings. None of it is rocket science. Get a workshop manual.

As FE said - why would you do that to newly rebuilt engine? Watchoo been sniffin' Willis?

RRussellTx - 1974 Commando 850 Project

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