1975 Norton Commando 850 MK3 - newbie - how to start?

[elefantrider]

That bike looks to have been stored outside for many years.
Electrical will probably be your biggest challenge with a corroded bike.
Did you get a key and do the hand control switches move?
Don't think super fine steel wool will do much on that chrome if pitted as it looks to be.
I have had had good success with soaking chrome parts in Evaporust, but you'll need the largest size jug they sell.
Won't eliminate deep pitting, only the light stuff.
Is the frame rusted? Usually, it is the last to rust.

 

[Carl H]

Really? Maybe the photos aren't showing the full extent of the corrosion/rust.
I suppose it's not catastrophic, but definitely pervasive. It's everywhere.
The guy who towed it (Ihave to send a shout-out to Dan at Low Budget Motorcycle Towing in the Bay Area. He's an incredible wealth of knowledge. and great prices.) said i should use coke and steel wool on the chrome.
I'll look for the Norman White book.

Also have been watching The Mighty Garage videos on You Tube.
Really like his demeanor and step-by-step narration.

The gas tank has a strange film. Is this a deteriorating protective coating (see photo below)?

Carl H:
Also a great idea to look for local groups. I believe there's on in the North Bay.

Thanks much.

View attachment 124847

Is there "a Coating" all over the interior of the tank> All I see is the "neck" of the tank having the exterior color on the inside rim of the neck. And the white paint has been stained by gas. Look at the interior of the tank. I would never seal a tank as there are other ways to repair a leak. I use Evap o Rust to de rust tanks and it takes time, but it does a great job. A clean tank is a must for a Commando to have a good life and make your life easier.

 

[SteveBorland]

I would highly recommend the NOC (UK) DVD's by Mick Hemmings. The engine strip and rebuild (its 2 disks) and the gearbox one are probably the best investment I made for my Commando.
You may have to be a member to buy them though, and there may be an issue with formats, perhaps someone on your side of the pond can help?

https://www.nortonownersclub.org/cgi-bin/nocshop/commerce.cgi?cart_id=1779011094.210&product=Spares%3EPublications%3EBooks_and_Videos&pid=985

 

[dparis]

Thanks everyone for all the help getting started.
I bought the Norman White book and have been reading it all weekend. Want to get a feel for what’s there before I do anything with the bike. Don’t want to make things worse.
Will check today on the level of chrome pitting and look into the gas tank. I believe I have some evaporust in the garage.
Will also look into the Mick Hemmings DVD’s.

Really looking forward to getting started.
Thanks again.

 

[Fast Eddie]

Really looking forward to getting started.

Great, just remember…

 

[Lineslinger]

Well, I’m gonna go against the tide here and suggest that bike really needs a complete strip down.

It looks low mileage, so hopefully it’s not all worn out or butchered internally. So you shouldn’t have to spend a fortune to make it a decent rider.

How far you go with cosmetics is personal taste of course.

But given the level of corrosion and long term lack of use, it needs stripping to ensure all is well mechanically and electrically IMO.

Agreed.
If you want to "gofast" you need to assure yourself that you can "gosafe" first, all it takes for a solid roadrash sandwich is one rusty fastener, internally or externally.

 

[dparis]

Agreed.
If you want to "gofast" you need to assure yourself that you can "gosafe" first, all it takes for a solid roadrash sandwich is one rusty fastener, internally or externally.

Point very well taken. I’m in absolutely no rush. More excited about the journey than the destination.

Looks like that coating is only at the neck of the gas tank under the cap. No coating inside.

The electronics are all corroded. I assume need to be completely removed and replaced.

 

[Lineslinger]

I know what you're saying.
And this is the wiring that the mice didnt get to.

 

[dparis]

I know what you're saying.
And this is the wiring that the mice didnt get to.

View attachment 124898View attachment 124899

Did you just pull all wiring and start over?
I assume the electrical components are similarly fried. Is it worth testing any of them?