Wanted: 74/75 850 Commando

[98tls]

As it says looking for a Mk 4 850 in decent nick,and i am well fussy so decent means just that and not someones shabby attempt at a resto.

[Kickaha]

That year is Mk3, I didn't even think they did a Mk4? Interstate or Roadster or aren't you fussy?

Actually, you strike me as more of a Hi rider type of person
264435

[98tls]

That year is Mk3, I didn't even think they did a Mk4? Interstate or Roadster or aren't you fussy?

Actually, you strike me as more of a Hi rider type of person
264435

The old man had a nice metalflake blue 74 which was bought as Mk4,the pics i attach are 74 Mk 4 roadster and 75 MK4 Interstate according to there owners.As for the high rider if it was mint i would buy it,not hard to lose the bars n seat.:ar15:

[98tls]

Lack of disc on the rear of 1st pic and location of disc on 2nd is interesting.

[Kickaha]

the pics i attach are 74 Mk 4 roadster
Can't see the roadster being a Mk4 when the Mk3 had rear disc brake and came out 74-75ish, can't find a mention of a Mk4 anywhere online

The Roadster has a right foot gearchange and the Interstate a left by the look of it to

No doubt a Commando anorak will be along sometime soon to give us the rundown

[98tls]

Can't see the roadster being a Mk4 when the Mk3 had rear disc brake and came out 74-75ish, can't find a mention of a Mk4 anywhere online

The Roadster has a right foot gearchange and the Interstate a left by the look of it to

No doubt a Commando anorak will be along sometime soon to give us the rundown

With you on the rear disc as i posted,Do a search for Mk 4 Norton Commando and theres heaps comes up (on my puter anyway)As you say no doubt some Norton fanatic will be along to sort it out,from memory they did the Interstate for the yanks,the disc on the other side ive no idea,no matter the TL is sold as off a few hours back and am after an 850,from what we have discovered so far at very least a MK3,hopefully as you said some Norton guy will sort out the rest...

[Kickaha]

With you on the rear disc as i posted,Do a search for Mk 4 Norton Commando and theres heaps comes up (on my puter anyway)
Did you read any of the links though? all those I read through didn't mention a Mk4 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norton_Commando

I always wanted a MK3 Interstate but they're even harder to find than a MHR

[tigertim20]

With you on the rear disc as i posted,Do a search for Mk 4 Norton Commando and theres heaps comes up (on my puter anyway)As you say no doubt some Norton fanatic will be along to sort it out,from memory they did the Interstate for the yanks,the disc on the other side ive no idea,no matter the TL is sold as off a few hours back and am after an 850,from what we have discovered so far at very least a MK3,hopefully as you said some Norton guy will sort out the rest...

you did fucking WHAT?????

[98tls]

Did you read any of the links though? all those I read through didn't mention a Mk4 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norton_Commando

I always wanted a MK3 Interstate but they're even harder to find than a MHR

http://www.google.co.nz/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=mk4+850+commando&source=web&cd=3&ved=0CFwQFjAC&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.classicmotorcycles.org.uk%2Fb ikemuseum%2Fmuseum_norton.htm&ei=QxjLT7OEOPCQiQfO_4S3Bg&usg=AFQjCNEoohbjRPGslu6JR4_iGvLGVHU1NAA few there on the Norton site.

[98tls]

The old fella was in the day a Norton junkie,was rebuilding an old 650SS when he bought the 850,whatever it was it was beautiful bike and though only 14 at the time i remember him saying MK4,mind you theres been plenty of drugs n Bourbon consumed since back then,ive a pic of the thing somewhere but cant be arsed finding it.

[Kickaha]

http://www.google.co.nz/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=mk4+850+commando&source=web&cd=3&ved=0CFwQFjAC&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.classicmotorcycles.org.uk%2Fb ikemuseum%2Fmuseum_norton.htm&ei=QxjLT7OEOPCQiQfO_4S3Bg&usg=AFQjCNEoohbjRPGslu6JR4_iGvLGVHU1NAA few there on the Norton site.

I think they fucked up, they have a 1971 as a Mk1 and a 1972 as a Mk3 so where did the Mk2 fit in? and I doubt a right foot change, drum brake bike is a Mk4 (If they exist)when a Mk3 had discs front and rear and left foot change for 1975

Although they're probably all parts bin specials like Ducati

Sent a couple of PM to some guys with the same dubious (Norton) taste in bikes as you to see if they know of anything

[98tls]

you did fucking WHAT?????

Indeed i did,had a bloke call in Friday on his way to the Brass and asked if he could have a look,i would have been stupid to turn down his offer so didnt.

[98tls]

I think they fucked up, they have a 1971 as a Mk1 and a 1972 as a Mk3 so where did the Mk2 fit in? and I doubt a right foot change, drum brake bike is a Mk4 (If they exist)when a Mk3 had discs front and rear and left foot change for 1975

Sent a couple of PM to some guys with the same dubious (Norton) taste in bikes as you to see if they know of anything

I hear what your saying mate,since making the (very recent) decision to buy one i thought i had them sussed re years etc but seems not,to get back on track a little lets just say i am wanting to buy as late as i can get (rear disc) in decent nick,Interstate or Roadster tank not important but Roadster would be a bonus.

[Kickaha]

i would have been stupid to turn down his offer so didnt. Has it gone and has money changed hands yet though?

I'd rather the Interstate tank myself, but that's because after having a BMW I hate a fuel range of less than 300km but from what I've seen they're a bit of a rarity

So how long before it's blinged out like the TL, have you seen the amount of shit you can buy for them to upgrade just about everything on them?

Here's one just down the road http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/classic-vintage/auction-480942320.htm

[98tls]

Has it gone and has money changed hands yet though?

I'd rather the Interstate tank myself, but that's because after having a BMW I hate a fuel range of less than 300km but from what I've seen they're a bit of a rarity

So how long before it's blinged out like the TL, have you seen the amount of shit you can buy for them to upgrade just about everything on them?

Here's one just down the road http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/classic-vintage/auction-480942320.htm

Still in the shed but have a decent deposit in cash,enough to say he would have rocks in his head to not pick it up and pay the rest,i made it plain to him that if he didnt he wasnt getting it back.Ive been a long time follower of what you can buy for the Commandos,blinged out?depends what you call blinged out my plan is to keep it old school in the cafe racer look,ive a mate in England who has some contacts re Norton owners clubs and old school aftermarket stuff,depending on whats what with the one i buy an old school but tasty single seat conversion will be up there on the list.

[Voltaire]

Kickaha PM'ed to add my 2 pennys worth.

I always wanted a 850 Mk 3 with disc brake rear and electric start and Interstate tank......I now have a 72 Combat Roadster that is kick only...and RHS upside down shift...its awesome and I don't care that I have to refuel after 200 kms. The front disc is rubbish but the rear drum is very good, I have ridden one 850 and it was pretty ordinary after riding the Combat. If I want electric start, decent brakes, and lh shifter I take out the Darmah. ( but its reg is on hold as its a modern...the 72 is $117 a year so its always registered.)
As for buying one....I'd go for one that has been rebuilt and used as opposed to the " only done 250 miles since restoration" ones.
Parts availability is great, you can buy almost everything....maybe even everything.
For me its a perfect Brit bike, nice to ride, easy to work on and parts are cheapish.....and lots of mods available....and that sound...nothing like it....Ducatis come close but not the modern ones...:yawn:
Budget for $10- 12 k for good one.
My mate BIL wheels and deals in them....has one on at mo..
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=480359186
You'd be better off buying my Thruxton and not having to spanner and break down....:msn-wink:

[Madness]

...the TL is sold as off a few hours back...

It has begun...

264449

[Paul in NZ]

I cant say I'm familiar with a 850 Mk4 Commando.

There are basically 750 and 850 types

750's were Mk 1, 11, 111, 1V

850's were Mk1, 11, 11a and 111

There is the original commando (model 20 mark III) laterly known as the fastback followed by a model R and S. They became the Roadster and S (roadster was essentially an S with low pipes). Then the was a fastback LR (long range) which had an old dommie tank, an SS and production racer.

Then came the interstate and combat. The combat gave 5 extra bhp and had the disk brake which was unique to Norton and expensive to develop so the combat was a premium model (cough).

The 1975 Mk 111 had rear disk, updated isolastics, electric start and left side gear change...

Cant say I cant think what else was done to make a Mk4 unless its one of the brand new ones you can now purchase from the guys who make spares - ie - a brand new commando in what ever flavour you want with an engine out to 1000cc if you want....

Anyway - there is a breakdown on their site

http://www.norvilmotorcycle.co.uk/

[Kickaha]

Ive been a long time follower of what you can buy for the Commandos,blinged out?depends what you call blinged out
When I was looking for one back in the early nineties before I bought the Darmah I was looking at shit like this http://www.norvilmotorcycle.co.uk/069808.htm, belt drive kits, proper oil filter system, 5 speed, etc etc etc, pretty easy to spend double the value of the bike

my plan is to keep it old school in the cafe racer lookdepending on whats what with the one i buy an old school but tasty single seat conversion will be up there on the list. Pretty sure Eurodave does the Norvil seat for them

Last (and first) one I rode was a 1969 Mk1, great motor, drum brakes were good to , the owner totalled it a couple of months later when he hit a U turning car

Sure you don't want me to put you in touch with the guy who has your old mans 900SS :whistle:

[eelracing]

I have ridden one 850 and it was pretty ordinary after riding the Combat. If I want electric start, decent brakes, and lh shifter I take out the Darmah.
You'd be better off buying my Thruxton and not having to spanner and break down....:msn-wink:

This guys on bad drugs...so don't listen to any of it.The Mk III is the discerning riders Norton.Everything mentioned is an easy as fix (except for riding a Triumph)

[Grumph]

Yep, everything on them is fixable - and usually has to be...Stu Avant raced an Interstate for Tommy's shop....but not for long.
Tommy was horrified at the cost of repairs....

If you want ideas on how to bling one up, some time back (pre quakes) Phil Garrett showed me a Commando he'd bought which has every Dunstall part made for Commandos fitted to it...including bits I never knew they made. Very nice indeed.
I've also spotted a John Player Replica in ChCh....

[Voltaire]

Whats the big deal with belt drives, 5 speed box conversions electric start, Mikuni carb conversions and lh gear shift.......may as well just buy a modern Triumph and pretend your a classic bike fan.....mines still for sale.....60 dreamers watching it.

I've dumbed mine down with a 3 phase alternator and electronic ignition....and a pushrod seal conversion to stop tranny oil getting on the clutch.. :baby:

My next mod is a Landsdown fork conversion....and maybe a smaller diameter master cylinder.....oh and led indicators...

I don't think I would want to take one racing.....too fragile and expensive.....I'd go German.

http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p235/rednzep/mirriorsmanukau.jpg

[Kickaha]

Whats the big deal with belt drives, 5 speed box conversions electric start, Mikuni carb conversions and lh gear shift....... Wank factor, did you ever see his TL?

My next mod is a Landsdown fork conversion... That's a quite good bit of kit, wonder if it could be adapted to fit BMW forks :yes:

[Voltaire]

Wank factor, did you ever see his TL?

I don't even know what a TL is....or anything much made in the last 25 years.


That's a quite good bit of kit, wonder if it could be adapted to fit BMW forks :yes:

No....the Roadholders are quite different inside. For the BMW the racetech emulators and linear springs work well.

So got Dads BSA on the road yet.....:rolleyes:

[sinfull]

You buggers have got me all excited again , think i might need a heater out there ! 264461

264462

Fuck i aint even looked at it for 12 months

[Voltaire]

You buggers have got me all excited again , think i might need a heater out there ! 264461

264462

Fuck i aint even looked at it for 12 months

C'mon....gotta be a good story in there...?:drool:

Us classics guys like project stories..... :banana:

have you seen the project one on TM that gets offered out once a fortnight for about 7K ?

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=480273218

I did a post on my Commando Clutch a while back and had no response...assumed there were no Commando fans here...
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/148518-Norton-Commando-Clutch-Part-One

[sinfull]

C'mon....gotta be a good story in there...?:drool:

Us classics guys like project stories..... :banana:


Kinda scary when i look back and see the date i last touched the muddy waters project
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/105832-Sinfull-s-classic-project-and-garage-blues!

Gave away plans to race this bike, it's gonna be a complete resto to a mint state ! (if i ever get there )

but if you add this
264466

And then this a year later grrrr
264465

I'm sure you'll understand why not much has gone on in the shed !

[98tls]

When I was looking for one back in the early nineties before I bought the Darmah I was looking at shit like this http://www.norvilmotorcycle.co.uk/069808.htm, belt drive kits, proper oil filter system, 5 speed, etc etc etc, pretty easy to spend double the value of the bike
Pretty sure Eurodave does the Norvil seat for them

Last (and first) one I rode was a 1969 Mk1, great motor, drum brakes were good to , the owner totalled it a couple of months later when he hit a U turning car

Sure you don't want me to put you in touch with the guy who has your old mans 900SS :whistle:

Tempted mate but no i will go with the Norton thing,wanted one for a long time.Cheers to all for there input,interesting stuff.The 750 in the link supplied a few posts back looks pretty good but its always been an 850 ive hankered for.

[Paul in NZ]

With Commandos you should really try to get a ride on one first. They can feel slightly 'odd' if not well set up or you are unused to them. The later 850 Mk11a's seem to be the one followed by the Mk111. BUT as others have said a decent Combat engined Roadster will slay them power wise. Properly put together they are very exciting to ride.

Like I said, they do feel a bit quirky though. I really preferred my Atlas as mine never really vibrated worse than anything else and I knew no better...

You will be lucky to find one to your standards. They are tightly held for good reason (ie they cost a lot to get right). The only complication in doing it your self is that the bits for them are a bit expensive compared to say a Triumph or BSA... But everything is available for them if you have the coin.

I'd talk to Bob Nesbitt at Classic Cycles (42 Ward Street Upper Hutt 5018) (04) 527 9608 He is probably 'Mr Norton' in NZ and would be a great place to start if you want something nice. (hes a bit old school and plain spoken but always been fair and kind to me)

[Kickaha]

The only complication in doing it your self is that the bits for them are a bit expensive compared to say a Triumph or BSA...

The bits are cheap compared to Ducati though :weep:

[Paul in NZ]

The bits are cheap compared to Ducati though :weep:

Um - true.... and needed less often some times....

[Voltaire]

Heres an example of 'old school' pricing....http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/parts-for-sale/wheels/auction-482484504.htm LOL

I asked about a 5 speed cluster for a pre unit conversion a while back....got the " make and offer ' line......I prefer the internet these days for buying and selling.

Commando parts I get from British Spares, easy to deal with, knowledgeable ,....I like to ring them ...makes a refreshing change from add to cart...proceed to checkout....( hmmm seem to have contradicted myself there...)

[TLDV8]

A Norton thread. ;)

If anyone wants measurements off the Lansdowne Engineering dampers I have a set.

<a href="http://s30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1971%20Norton%20Commando/?action=view&amp;current=IMG_0009.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1971%20Norton%20Commando/IMG_0009.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>

<a href="http://s30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1974%20Triumph%20TR5T%20Trophy%20Trail/?action=view&amp;current=IMG_0068.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1974%20Triumph%20TR5T%20Trophy%20Trail/IMG_0068.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>

<a href="http://s30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1974%20Norton%20Commando/?action=view&amp;current=One1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1974%20Norton%20Commando/One1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>

[Paul in NZ]

Dunno about the Norton but those Trophy Trails are worthy of a thread of their own ;-)

[sinfull]

Sigh !!! That Norton just makes mine look bloody sad !

[BIG DOUG]

I'm with paul,talk to Nez at classic cycles,mind you he did tell me he had just finished a 750 rebuild and it cost the guy $33k but hey he does know what he is doing.

[BIG DOUG]

Oh and another thing if you could splash out and buy a TT industries 5 box for it she would just about be perfect.

[Voltaire]

I made nice headsteady for mine recently, now I just want to fit the Landsdowne dampers I bought last year, sleeve the M/C to 12mm and it will be sweet.

276901


Its good on gravel, those 19" Dunlops...
276900

[98tls]

:drool:Jesus the Commandos beautiful Les.One of those in the light blue metalflake ta...

[Paul in NZ]

:drool:Jesus the Commandos beautiful Les.One of those in the light blue metalflake ta...

Yup - but please wheel out the other commando and one of the trophy trails for a picture ;-) I always wanted one of the trophy trails and had a wreck offered to me at a decent price along with a running B44VS but alas I chose the B44VS and could only afford one bike.

[TLDV8]

:drool:Jesus the Commandos beautiful Les.One of those in the light blue metalflake ta...

Its a 1974 MkIIA Mike.
The last model that was right hand shift and to some critics it was the best Commando,all the benefits of the 850 without the added weight of electric starters and the like.

<a href="http://s30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1974%20Norton%20Commando/?action=view&amp;current=T2eC16ZHJIkE9qU3k7GiBQc5WCIlv w60_12.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1974%20Norton%20Commando/T2eC16ZHJIkE9qU3k7GiBQc5WCIlvw60_12.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>

[TLDV8]

Yup - but please wheel out the other commando and one of the trophy trails for a picture ;-) I always wanted one of the trophy trails and had a wreck offered to me at a decent price along with a running B44VS but alas I chose the B44VS and could only afford one bike.

I only have these pictures handy Paul and not due home from work until next month.

The Norton is a 1971 Fastback (The last year Fastback with drum brakes and timed breather)
There are more pics in the photobucket account.

<a href="http://s30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1971%20Norton%20Commando/?action=view&amp;current=KGrHqVpUE-q8Vs5zBQOn67O0g60_3_zps9814770d.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1971%20Norton%20Commando/KGrHqVpUE-q8Vs5zBQOn67O0g60_3_zps9814770d.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>

The 1974 Triumph TR5T Trophy Trail Has a little over 2000 miles on the clock.
It had one owner from 1974 to 2012.

<a href="http://s30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1974%20Triumph%20TR5T%20Trophy%20Trail/?action=view&amp;current=IMG_0063.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1974%20Triumph%20TR5T%20Trophy%20Trail/IMG_0063.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>

The other TR5T has an engine number that suggests they were both built in July 74 and are 100 apart so may have been on the same assembly line back then.
It didn't lead such a charmed life but is original for the most part.

<a href="http://s30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/?action=view&amp;current=IMG_2137.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/IMG_2137.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>

The Eldorado is something else again.

<a href="http://s30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/?action=view&amp;current=Eldorado.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/Eldorado.jpg" border="0" alt="1973 Moto Guzzi Eldorado"></a>

I regard myself very lucky to have these motorcycles, not to mention the 'boss who's suggestion it was to buy the second TR5T when it came available.
The only things not original on it are the tyres,the original Dunlops replaced last year.

[Paul in NZ]

Oh god - I just about wet myself with pleasure... You sir have excellent taste and the good fortune to indulge it... WELL DONE.....

OMG - the low miles TR5 still has the spark arrestor in the pipe.... shudder...

Stupidest thing I ever did was turn down that wreck (well not exactly THE stupidest thing but you know)

[98tls]

Fantastic Les they really are.Still hope to see the collection someday.Been looking for a pic taken when i was 14 sitting on the the old mans light blue 850 with the 650SS he rebuilt to pristine along side it but must be on a disc i cant find.Will keep looking until i find it.Still say that Guzzis the coolest mile eater ive ever seen.

[98tls]

:laugh:That was quick,xcuse the jersey mum was buying them for me back then..:innocent:

[TLDV8]

http://www.classicbike.biz/Norton/Brochures/Brochures.htm

[TLDV8]

Oh god - I just about wet myself with pleasure... You sir have excellent taste and the good fortune to indulge it... WELL DONE.....

OMG - the low miles TR5 still has the spark arrestor in the pipe.... shudder...

Stupidest thing I ever did was turn down that wreck (well not exactly THE stupidest thing but you know)

Funny you mention the KS500 spark arrestor that seemed to be made of unobtainium.
The other 74 which oddly has a 73 exhaust (short outet) which seems to match the rest of the bike condition wise as if it was fitted from new had no KS500.
All google searches let to people wanting one with none for sale anywhere worldwide.
There was a eBay seller selling parts out of Queensland every now and then,one day what pops up but a odd looking spark arrestor described as new old stock but no real clue to what it was off.
I bid on it and this turned up in the mail at a cost of $28 + post.

http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1974-TR5T/IMG_2629.jpg

http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1974-TR5T/IMG_2626.jpg

http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1974-TR5T/IMG_2119-1.jpg

http://s30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1974-TR5T/?action=view&current=MVI_2101.mp4

[xknuts]

Actually, you strike me as more of a Hi rider type of person
264435

Well surprise surprise, TL gone!!
You know what I ride M, but I've always been a fan of Classic British, and have kept my Classic since 1986;
But it's the "Hi Rider" & the Fastback for me, but I think it had to be the Poster Girl leaning over it in the Promo. :love:
This is my fav Norton site, some stunning stuff here.
http://www.coloradonortonworks.com/about/gallery.asp
ENJOY :woohoo:

[TLDV8]

Oh god - I just about wet myself with pleasure... You sir have excellent taste and the good fortune to indulge it... WELL DONE.....


The good fortune comes from being away from home 28 days at a time (LNG plants)
Kiwi work ethic goes a long way here but the trade is changing for the worst sadly.

Back home until next week.
Some parts had arrived for the Fastback.
The inner primary had a weld repair but a $68 replacement from US eBay will fix that.
A bit of time with a brass wire brush,0000 steel wool and a good scrub with a stiff bristle brush and car wash brought it up nicely.
A lashing of silicone spray and its ready to install.

<a href="http://beta.photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1971%20Norton%20Commando/IMG_0170.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_0170.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://beta.photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1971%20Norton%20Commando/IMG_0131_zps5125b719.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_0131_zps5125b719.jpg"/></a>

[Voltaire]

Have you given any thought to doing the mods on the swing arm pivot?

I'm looking at replacing my isolastics in situ, your picture would support that you can. cheers.

I just bought a Pazon ignition from Kati Kati which should be a huge improvement on the Boyer. Cheers.

I find its not to bad here at the moment, I hung up my tool belt about 5 years ago and life in the office is not too bad......and it sure pays better doing less actual work...:rolleyes:

[TLDV8]

My lathe,mill and welder (Lincoln Invertec V200T) etc are still in storage in NZ so am a bit limited on the more ambitious projects.
I had seen the nuts welded to the pivot mod and also the clamp kits you can buy to support the pivot shaft.
Andover Norton might even do a new cradle also.
Not sure at this stage.
The MkIIA has a bit of movement at the rear Isolastic but it might just need adjusting.
It also still has points which will be replaced at some stage,most likely a Pazon Altair,had thought about the Tri-spark but not sure about everything under the cover so close to the engine heat and vibration.

<a href="http://beta.photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1974%20Norton%20Commando/IMG_0190.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_0190.jpg"/></a>

[Cheesy]

I have just come across this thread, most of my reading here is in the bucket section. I have just done the spindle mod on my one, 16mm bar with a 5mm hole drilled through, then welded to the cradle, drilled to 7mm and tapped 5/16 UNF. I also ground out some notches on the bottom of the cradle where the centre stand contacts and welded in so key steel. Finally I ground out a notch on the RHS just under the ISO mount so the gearbox can come out with the cradle still bolted to the engine.

[TLDV8]

A little quiet in the land of Norton.
The postman has been a regular over the last couple of months while I have been away on the job in WA.
Another head from the UK.
Its pretty rare to find one this good these days especially with excellent rockers and exhaust port threads,not to mention 40 years of ham-fisted mechanics.
<a href="http://photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1971%20Norton%20Commando/IMG_0245.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_0245.jpg"/></a>

Interstate fuel tank from India (Paradiseparts51 / eBay)
Under AU$300 to the door.
<a href="http://photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/Norton%20Interstate%20fuel%20tank%20India/IMG_0235.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_0235.jpg"/></a>

Andover Norton who are excellent to deal with.
<a href="http://photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1971%20Norton%20Commando/IMG_0228.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_0228.jpg"/></a>

Plenty of work to do on bikes in general once this job is completed end of July (perhaps)

[TLDV8]

Everyone must be out riding their Nortons.
How about pre units ?

<a href="http://photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1957%20Triumph%20Trophy%20TR6/IMG_0286.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_0286.jpg"/></a>

[Voltaire]

mmmmm, pre unit Triumphs are nice on the eye. I like the clicking of the chronometer with the most useful 'revulator"
do you go on Access Norton at all?

[TLDV8]

Access Norton,yes but it is a reminder sometimes of the consequences of embracing old age and the closing of the mind.:laugh:

Norton on hold,waiting for some parts,back to Nortons when MG parts have been ordered.

<a href="http://photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/Misc/IMG_0311.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_0311.jpg"/></a>

[granstar]

Always had a hankering for an 850 Commando choice colour the met blue, or a tasty black roadster guise. My problem is height and weight, they take a bit of kicking over with no electric leg.
Had a mate with a combat, was nothing but Trouble, and they were nicknamed "grenades" likely due to the extra stress of added 5 hp.

Agree Bob "Nez" is the man at Classic Cycles, he rebuilt my T140 Triumph motor, it's never missed a beat and runs strong after heaps of miles, really knows his stuff and easy to deal with.

A good link for a winters day ...

http://www.captain.norton.clara.net/

[Voltaire]

My understanding of them is the Combats have a bad rep, a lot of it is to do with the low gearing fitted and being reved out to 7000 on a regular basis.
apparently the cranks flexed, which in itself is not so bad but the std rollers did not take kindly to that as the rollers were square.
Typical Briddish approach was to make bearings in a barrel shape that tolerated this.
The Combats were fitted with a different cam...2s and liked to rev once past 5k they really come on.
Heads were skimmed by about 1 mm, you can see this with the fins being closed at the head/cylinder joint. Heads have a 'C' stamped on them under the ( rubbish) head steady.
32mm Carbs were fitted to hogged out heads which are not considered to be junk.

I've had my 72 Combat roadster for 3 years and its easy to start thanks to resleeved carbs and electronic igniton, pulls well in top from 2000 and once you hit 5000 it goes mad.
Braking is pretty poor for a disk brake, might resleeve down to 12mm one day.
Cool bikes, everyone should have a Commando at least once.

[eelracing]

I've had my 72 Combat roadster for 3 years and its easy to start thanks to resleeved carbs

Braking is pretty poor for a disk brake, might resleeve down to 12mm one day.

Any more info/thoughts behind these mods Voltaire?

I've had untold frustrations around idle and twiddling/balancing etc has just resulted in going around in circles.Fueling above idle is fine.No probs to start either.

With front brake I've been contemplating braided hoses throughout but don't know if it would be a total cure...an alternative caliper is not an option as I love the look of the original.

[Voltaire]

Hi Ellracing, Mine came with sleeved carbs and has always been a nice easy starter. If it was not I'd probably have fitted new Amals. The bodies on Amals wear badly. Mine has had sleeves fitted over the slide. Starts easy and idles after it warms up.
Still have the boyer but got a Pazon to fit next.
Brake is rubbish, mostly down to poor m/c to caliper ratio. My BMW racer was the same, and a 12mm M/C make the original ATE calipers and the cast iron discs very good.
There is a guy on the Access Norton forum called Madass, hes an Aussie living in the Phillipines, makes some good bits. Another Commando guy I know here has bought parts off him including the master cylinder sleeve kit, works well he says.
I'd say that, braided line, re-kit the Lockheed and softer pads you might have something acceptable and still keep the std looks.
Next on my list is fitting a set of Lansdown dampers I got last year, one leg has compression and the other rebound, adjustable at the top of the forks.
cheers
Volty.

[Paul in NZ]

Any more info/thoughts behind these mods Voltaire?

I've had untold frustrations around idle and twiddling/balancing etc has just resulted in going around in circles.Fueling above idle is fine.No probs to start either.
.

Hi - AMAL concentrics look dead simple but there are a lot of things that upset them. They are super sensitive to air leaks for one...

I'd start with hauling them off the bike and giving them a good clean. If you have a compressor blow through the idle cct air intake on the atmosphere side (small holes below main intake) and watch that you can see it appearing through the small hole in the bore of the carb just behind the slide.

While the very first concentrics had a removable pilot jet they soon switched to a fixed bush which gets blocked/damaged very easily. They also tend to run far too rich on modern unleaded which I think is a global problem because the new 'premium' concentrics have reverted to this removable pilot jet. If its running too rich at idle try a hotter plug. (you can go 2 grades hotter and to an extended tip plug with the 650 TR6's and T120s to counter this)

While you have the carbs off - check the float levels are right. I personally like them on the low side but if you lower it too much the tickler does not work any good. Also check the flow through the taps and lines at this point.

Check the floats for leaks and make sure you have the later version of the float needle (the little rubber tip stops excess fuel flowing in at idle.)

Don't over tighten the carbs when remounting them - you will warp the bodies (check by winding the slides right to the top an see if they stick)

Once everything is clean and 'right' go through the set up as in the manual - if the battery is good it should idle OK. If all else fails go to a single carb set up....

Change the needle/needle jet. They cost peanuts and wear out fast.

[Paul in NZ]

Oh - I have some amal set up booklets if required

[Voltaire]

Good Post Paul, I was on a run last year to the 'naki and the guy behind said he could smell the unburnt gas.....he could not believe when I filled up the huge 12 litre tank I was getting over 60 MPG.:eek5:
" They' say you should have the chokes working too...yes?

[Paul in NZ]

Good Post Paul, I was on a run last year to the 'naki and the guy behind said he could smell the unburnt gas.....he could not believe when I filled up the huge 12 litre tank I was getting over 60 MPG.:eek5:
" They' say you should have the chokes working too...yes?


Erm - well I have the choke fitted on mine... Cos I like the sweet little choke lever and it looks naff without doing something... Some people hate them but - in my case to get the bike to run right at idle/low speed I've leaned it out as much as I can. The choke definately makes it start a little easier IN MY CASE.... Plus I have a single carb bike...

If you do ditch the chokes make sure you seal up the hole in the top of the carb.

Once AMALs are right they are pretty good. But you need to undo 40 plus years of bodging.

[BIG DOUG]

Funny just reading on another forum about this,you need a #74 drill bit as this is the size of the jet.Hey paul do you want to buy a brand new pair of genuine heated triumph grips I have a pair new in the box.

[BIG DOUG]

correction to the above it is a #78 drill bit.

[eelracing]

Cheers for all the feedback chaps,a few of the tips I have already tried,i've even replaced the slides but thems are pearls thanks Paul.

[Paul in NZ]

Funny just reading on another forum about this,you need a #74 drill bit as this is the size of the jet.Hey paul do you want to buy a brand new pair of genuine heated triumph grips I have a pair new in the box.

Argh splutter froth gurgle.... Too late (but thanks) Doug... I have the hot grips by Mr Oxford...

[Paul in NZ]

Cheers for all the feedback chaps,a few of the tips I have already tried,i've even replaced the slides but thems are pearls thanks Paul.

The bodies wear as much if not more than the slides and will sometimes leak enough air around them to make idle adjustment a real PIA. Having said that - IF everything else is right, ie ignition, valves, charging etc then you should be able to get some sort of idle...

Speaking of such... What sort of ignition system are you running? If not already some kind of electronic one will definately help.

[swarfie]

The bodies wear as much if not more than the slides and will sometimes leak enough air around them to make idle adjustment a real PIA. Having said that - IF everything else is right, ie ignition, valves, charging etc then you should be able to get some sort of idle....

When I restored my Velocette Venom MKII Clubman in 1997 I put a NOS Amal MK 1 body and new slide and it was sweet for a few miles...18 months and 10,000 miles latter it was as sloppy as and wouldn't idle reliably. I bored the body and sleeved the slide with Alumec 89 tooling plate and it was sweet for another 28,000 miles. Slide wasn't worn bugger all (due to good material) but the body was shagged again so I got another slightly worn body, bored it to suit my slide and was back to good mixture and idle. Its done 42,000 now and is still okay. The bodies don't wear as much as the slides but still wear out ...having a better material on the slide certainly seems to make them last longer though. Good advice about the needle and needle jet Paul, they wear out and upset the idle mixture. I compensated by giving one of my bikes more slide cutaway but then eventually replaced them and had to go back to the original slide cutaway as it was then too lean at idle and spitting back through the carb.

[Paul in NZ]

I have found that the concentrics are super sensitive to slide cutaway changes. Even a half size seems to make a huge difference.

You can get an improved concentric now with a modern materials slide. This should improve matters.

FWIW - AMAL back in the day were quite aware of the silliness of making the body and slide of the same material and proposed several times upgrades to cure this. The british industry though would not pay more than a pound a carb so it never happened... Ah! the good old days!

On the up side - even a flogged out concentric will keep working rather well from just off idle to WOT

[Paul in NZ]

When I restored my Velocette Venom MKII Clubman

Argh... Jealous MUCH

[Paul in NZ]

These links might help

http://www.ingfatrygg.se/amal.html#toc

http://www.britcycle.com/Manuals/amaltune.pdf (not using boiling water in a bowl is great when adjusting float height - not keen on naked flames around carbs)

http://www.britcycle.com/Manuals/Amal_Float_691_622069.pdf

http://www.hitchcocksmotorcycles.com/hints-tips-mk1-concentric

[Kickaha]

I have found that the concentrics are super sensitive to slide cutaway changes. Even a half size seems to make a huge difference.

You can get an improved concentric now with a modern materials slide. This should improve matters.

I'm going to improve matters by binning the amal and fitting a mikuni

[Motu]

FWIW - AMAL back in the day were quite aware of the silliness of making the body and slide of the same material and proposed several times upgrades to cure this. The british industry though would not pay more than a pound a carb so it never happened...

The Monoblock was a better carb, with a thin brass slide, internally supported, and the needle clip at the top of the slide. Main jets easy to replace, separate pilot jet, easy access float. In the mid '70's I scored two brand new monoblocks and fitted them to my Rickman with T100C engine - a whole new wonderful world compared to concentrics. Funny, I was comparing brand new Monoblocks to worn out Concentrics, when most people were fitting brand new Concentrics to replace worn out Monoblocks and saying it was an improvement.

[granstar]

I have this book and reiterates Paul's wisdom, viton seal, float levels, don't overtighten.

http://victorylibrary.com/CONC.htm

If I win lotto :brick: my commando will get a single carb head as a sensible mod...sorry slipped into a dream there.
I converted my T140 bonny from MK2 Amals to a single Tiger head with concentric with chromed slider, chucked the choke ( a spent .22 shell fills the hole) never run better, and no loss of power ( noticable).

[eelracing]

The bodies wear as much if not more than the slides and will sometimes leak enough air around them to make idle adjustment a real PIA. Having said that - IF everything else is right, ie ignition, valves, charging etc then you should be able to get some sort of idle...

Speaking of such... What sort of ignition system are you running? If not already some kind of electronic one will definately help.

Oh I can get it to idle following the manual to the letter,it's just that it's so bloody erratic.Once warmed up it will be fine but at operating temp and pulling up to a stop she will sit at idle but then sure enough slowly rise up in revs to the point it can be at 3000 rpm.I can give it a couple of blips on the throttle which will settle it down or if in gear let the clutch out to bring it back down only for it to eventually start rising again. By now i'm getting a bit sick of this so what does old muggins do?I will wind out the idle adjusters until she ticks over all ticketeeboo like.Only to pull up at the next stop and practically have the engine stop dead if I don't catch it on the throttle in time...:mad:So what does old muggins do?...you can see where i'm going with this eh:lol:
I'm basically at a compromise with the set-up now where if I stop I just blip the throttle.Open road cruising has never been a problem as is starting (kick only as electric start gutted out)& Boyer ignition fitted two years ago.

I guess ultimately I will have to face the fact that the carb bodies are worn out but I can live with it for now as any spare cash is going to go on that damn front brake.

[Paul in NZ]

Oh I can get it to idle following the manual to the letter,it's just that it's so bloody erratic.Once warmed up it will be fine but at operating temp and pulling up to a stop she will sit at idle but then sure enough slowly rise up in revs to the point it can be at 3000 rpm.I can give it a couple of blips on the throttle which will settle it down or if in gear let the clutch out to bring it back down only for it to eventually start rising again. By now i'm getting a bit sick of this so what does old muggins do?I will wind out the idle adjusters until she ticks over all ticketeeboo like.Only to pull up at the next stop and practically have the engine stop dead if I don't catch it on the throttle in time...:mad:So what does old muggins do?...you can see where i'm going with this eh:lol:
I'm basically at a compromise with the set-up now where if I stop I just blip the throttle.Open road cruising has never been a problem as is starting (kick only as electric start gutted out)& Boyer ignition fitted two years ago.

I guess ultimately I will have to face the fact that the carb bodies are worn out but I can live with it for now as any spare cash is going to go on that damn front brake.


Thats very odd.... Float levels too high?

[Voltaire]

I have this book and reiterates Paul's wisdom, viton seal, float levels, don't overtighten.

http://victorylibrary.com/CONC.htm

If I win lotto :brick: my commando will get a single carb head as a sensible mod...sorry slipped into a dream there.
I converted my T140 bonny from MK2 Amals to a single Tiger head with concentric with chromed slider, chucked the choke ( a spent .22 shell fills the hole) never run better, and no loss of power ( noticable).

I might be wrong but I don't think there is " a single carb head" just that you can get a manifold adaptor to mount a cough cough Mikuni on it.
I've been lucky with mine touch wood.I had not used it for a few months, and started in a couple of kicks ( when following the correct start procedure)
I have found that the 'modern' fuel fouls plugs very easily and they are best replaced and they never seem to be the same after cleaning.

[Paul in NZ]

I might be wrong but I don't think there is " a single carb head" just that you can get a manifold adaptor to mount a cough cough Mikuni on it.
I've been lucky with mine touch wood.I had not used it for a few months, and started in a couple of kicks ( when following the correct start procedure)
I have found that the 'modern' fuel fouls plugs very easily and they are best replaced and they never seem to be the same after cleaning.

Yes - there is a single carb manifold for Nortons. No so easy with a Triumph with the delta head with splayed inlets but doable with parrallel ones.

Nothing wrong with a Mikuni either. I've seen CV carbs as well as all sorts of 'solutions'...

Sparkplugs need to be at a certain operating temperature so that they 'self clean'. In the old fashioned combustion chambers that usually does not happen now as the modern fuels don't seem to allow it and I never found enough adjustment in a concentric to counter it. I have gone up 1 grade hotter in plugs and to an 'extended tip' plug to place it in a hotter environment. I can do this easily with the 650 as even Triumph themselves did this with the later T140's that featured the Lucas Rita electronic ignition. It works quite well and now I can ride at "town speeds" without stumbles....

I tried increasing the slide cut away but the engine ran stupidly hot. and playing with needle position had bugger all effect.

[Motu]

Once warmed up it will be fine but at operating temp and pulling up to a stop she will sit at idle but then sure enough slowly rise up in revs to the point it can be at 3000 rpm.I will wind out the idle adjusters until she ticks over all ticketeeboo like.Only to pull up at the next stop and practically have the engine stop dead if I don't catch it on the throttle in time...:


Do you have insulating blocks between carbs and head ? It's the carbs heating up and cooling down - as you ride down the road vaporising fuel cools the carb down, when you stop at the lights heat from the cyl head flows to the carbs (called heat soak) leaning the mixture out and increasing the idle. Carburettor car engines have heated manifolds to stop this. This was life for me in the '70's commuting by Norton across Auckland city - I set the idle for a hot idle, pull up at the lights and hold it at a good idle with the throttle, then as the carbs warm up you can let go the throttle and stretch that aching back and get circulation back in the hands...all real Nortons have low bars I think. My brand new Concentics were bolted straight to the head with no insulating blocks.

[eelracing]

Do you have insulating blocks between carbs and head ?

you can let go the throttle and stretch that aching back and get circulation back in the hands...all real Nortons have low bars I think.

Yeah they're there.But I take issue with the low bar comment as my bike is ex US and comes equipped with good ol' boy cowhorns :eek:No back probs here...yet.

[Paul in NZ]

Golly - AMAL really seem to have their stuff together here...

http://amalcarb.co.uk/technical/

Note the modified spray tubes for tridents and later 850 Nortons (rebuild section)

[T.W.R]

As it says looking for a Mk 4 850 in decent nick,and i am well fussy so decent means just that and not someones shabby attempt at a resto.

:yes:


http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=635909059


287262

[98tls]

:yes:


http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=635909059


287262

:2thumbsupThing is when i started the thread Bill i thought the TL was outta here,it wont leave so the Norton thing is back to the someday/oneday....did have a look at the yellow 750 on tardme.

[T.W.R]

:2thumbsupThing is when i started the thread Bill i thought the TL was outta here,it wont leave so the Norton thing is back to the someday/oneday....did have a look at the yellow 750 on tardme.


:innocent: just keepin your interest up...I saw the thread a few weeks ago (20mth hiatus I've missed a few bits n pieces) so thought I'd throw temptation at ya :shifty:
Ha the yellow Hi Back in ChCh? :facepalm: you know you'd have to bring it back to stock with the beastie seat :shutup:
got to have something to keep the TL company :yes: the single has gone & bet the triple hasn't had anything done with it or has that gone too?

[98tls]

:innocent: just keepin your interest up...I saw the thread a few weeks ago (20mth hiatus I've missed a few bits n pieces) so thought I'd throw temptation at ya :shifty:
Ha the yellow Hi Back in ChCh? :facepalm: you know you'd have to bring it back to stock with the beastie seat :shutup:
got to have something to keep the TL company :yes: the single has gone & bet the triple hasn't had anything done with it or has that gone too?

Yea mate thats the one,just looked thats all.The wee Honda went to a good home,was quite happy to keep it but a bloke had a dire need for it so off it went,the XS is still here but correct nothing done mind you it was always going to be a retirement project;)everything in good time eh.Had a ride on a Thruxton the other day but wasnt inspired,like the looks though.made the TL feel like a new bike next time i rode it.:2thumbsupFuck the Thruxton was bland.

[Voltaire]

Yea mate thats the one,just looked thats all.The wee Honda went to a good home,was quite happy to keep it but a bloke had a dire need for it so off it went,the XS is still here but correct nothing done mind you it was always going to be a retirement project;)everything in good time eh.Had a ride on a Thruxton the other day but wasnt inspired,like the looks though.made the TL feel like a new bike next time i rode it.:2thumbsupFuck the Thruxton was bland.

+1 on the Thruxton being bland. I had one for about 6 months and louder pipes just made it bland and loud, they look ok, but the proportions are a bit off.
Buggered if I'd pay 20K plus for a Gus Khun Commando when you can pick up Ducatis so cheap.

[AllanB]

+1 on the Thruxton being bland. I had one for about 6 months and louder pipes just made it bland and loud.

I still can't understand why Triumph has not brought out a 'hot-rod' Hinckley Bonnie engine. The existing one is so over engineered that a 80hp one with a bit of character is easily achievable for them.

Or supercharge one ......

But then I'd have to front up with some coin!!!!

[Kickaha]

Buggered if I'd pay 20K plus for a Gus Khun Commando when you can pick up Ducatis so cheap.
What like the Green frame on ebay at 122K?

[Motu]

I still can't understand why Triumph has not brought out a 'hot-rod' Hinckley Bonnie engine.

Some think they can take on an XR750 - they are not winning races, but not totally hopeless.

287294

[AllanB]

That's the thing - there are tuners making good power out of the engines reliably. I wondered early on if Triumph would start doing their version of Screaming Eagle kits for the Bonnie - big bore, cams, carbs/injectors etc. nah.

Still they have sold thousands of them so probably don't need to cater to my desires!

[Voltaire]

What like the Green frame on ebay at 122K?

no proper 4 valve ones, not Grandas museum pieces.:killingme

[Voltaire]

That's the thing - there are tuners making good power out of the engines reliably. I wondered early on if Triumph would start doing their version of Screaming Eagle kits for the Bonnie - big bore, cams, carbs/injectors etc. nah.

Still they have sold thousands of them so probably don't need to cater to my desires!

I think you are right that they sell enough and can't be arsed. Once you push up the HP the very poor suspension and brakes would need upgrading....

I've seen ( on the net) dyno runs with over 80 HP, compared to the stock 50-55.

[TLDV8]

Good to see life in the Norton thread.
Its a rainy day on the East coast so off to the garage shortly.

The Mk2a got a bit of a going over to source a oil leak which looked to be a hose off the oil filter,order sent off to Andover Norton for under $200 which is not to bad at all.
Mainly maintenance parts,a new set of needles and needle jets and other sundries,the Madass sleeve kit for the master cylinder is next on the list to be fitted.

<a href="http://photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/49e9b0d6-ea5d-48c5-aba7-0daa3523af9a.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 49e9b0d6-ea5d-48c5-aba7-0daa3523af9a.jpg"/></a>

New shoes for the 750 including a set of Avon road rider universals underway.
An eBay rear hub cleaned up nicely (brass wire brush) to go with Madass rims and s/s spoke kits,a front hub is being a little more elusive and might have to use the original even though I wanted to keep those wheels intact.
No doubt if I strip the wheel a hub will come available.

<a href="http://photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/Misc/IMG_0423.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_0423.jpg"/></a>

The 1957 TR6 Trophy that arrived from the US some months ago and meant to be a next year project turned out to be to much of a temptation.
Looks like I am on the hunt for pre unit parts.

<a href="http://photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1957%20Triumph%20Trophy%20TR6/1957TR6-1.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 1957TR6-1.jpg"/></a>

[Paul in NZ]

That 57 is just so nice... Ah but you are a fortunate man - thanks for sharing...

[Winston001]

Might have already posted here but Mike, I thought you were working on a Thruxton? Much as I love Norton Commandos, the Thruxton has to be a better bike.

[Voltaire]

deleted.....realised your probably talking about a 60's Thruxton not the lardy slow replica

[swarfie]

deleted.....realised your probably talking about a 60's Thruxton not the lardy slow replica

Then there's the REAL Thruxton...of the Velocette kind :banana::headbang::cool:

[eelracing]

It had to be done,not only because of the my current idling probs but because they were steadily leaking petrol at standstill.
So much so that I left a bowl under the carbs overnight and had collected over a cupful of petrol the next morning.
I stripped them down and wow the wear on the slides/carb body is pretty horrendous considering the slides were replaced 5000ks or so ago.
The floats were doing their job ok and consequently the petrol tanks taps were leaking in the off position...so I'm suspecting leaking is just the carbs drainplug washers are duff and replace the taps.


I rang up British Spares down in Nelson and after enquiring/pricing up left and right side carb bodies (diff prices) and slides,O-rings,washers and gaskets etc the price difference was dearer than if I just get a pair of brand new fully kitted carbs...and a little bit more for the new and improved 'premiere' carbs.
Brit Spares are recommending this...but they would,wouldn't they?

Anyways reading back through this thread there are a couple of punters who have had sleeve jobs done to their slides/carb body???and they seem pretty happy with the results.
However on the AMAL website they do not recommend sleeving...but they would,would'nt they?

So,what to do? The sleeving appeals to the cheap bastard in me.A good engineering workshop should be able to do this right?or is there a bit more to it.

[HenryDorsetCase]

That's the thing - there are tuners making good power out of the engines reliably. I wondered early on if Triumph would start doing their version of Screaming Eagle kits for the Bonnie - big bore, cams, carbs/injectors etc. nah.

Still they have sold thousands of them so probably don't need to cater to my desires!

Richard Pollock (MULE MOTORCYCLES) has hot rodded a few: check him out

http://www.mulemotorcycles.net/

[TLDV8]

A good engineering workshop should be able to do this right?or is there a bit more to it.

Finding someone who has actual hands on experience is the problem, not to be confused with people who think they are competent.
The Amal Premiers have a better designed idle circuit also and it seems they are made from better materials so long term wear is minimised.
The Amals on my fastback are at that stage, still OK but show wear at the slide and body so the same decision is on the horizon, I am thinking Premiers at this stage, hopefully that would mean fit and forget besides the usual synchronisation check now and again.


Since the thread has sprung to life again, a 19 lb box arrived from Jim Comstock in Colorado late yesterday.
I had picked up a good 750 head earlier in the year on US eBay for $325 and Jim has gone over it, Kibblewhite valves and guides along with bronze inserts for the head studs and exhaust port threads.

This was the ebay pic.

<a href="http://photobucket.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/Commando%20misc/pp.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo pp.jpg"/></a>

[Voltaire]

My Combat has sleeves fitted over the slides, starts, idles and runs nicely. No idea who did it.
I gather the Premier ones are the way to go too.
Cost would probably determine the best way.
Or fit a Mikuni :sick:
Not coz its Japanese, coz its lazy.

[husaberg]

It had to be done,not only because of the my current idling probs but because they were steadily leaking petrol at standstill.
So much so that I left a bowl under the carbs overnight and had collected over a cupful of petrol the next morning.
I stripped them down and wow the wear on the slides/carb body is pretty horrendous considering the slides were replaced 5000ks or so ago.
The floats were doing their job ok and consequently the petrol tanks taps were leaking in the off position...so I'm suspecting leaking is just the carbs drainplug washers are duff and replace the taps.


I rang up British Spares down in Nelson and after enquiring/pricing up left and right side carb bodies (diff prices) and slides,O-rings,washers and gaskets etc the price difference was dearer than if I just get a pair of brand new fully kitted carbs...and a little bit more for the new and improved 'premiere' carbs.
Brit Spares are recommending this...but they would,wouldn't they?

Anyways reading back through this thread there are a couple of punters who have had sleeve jobs done to their slides/carb body???and they seem pretty happy with the results.
However on the AMAL website they do not recommend sleeving...but they would,would'nt they?

So,what to do? The sleeving appeals to the cheap bastard in me.A good engineering workshop should be able to do this right?or is there a bit more to it.

Pat Thackwell in CHCH (hes dead now I am pretty sure) used to do a good trade in resleeving the MK1's, they are a silly design soft on soft wears fast. Sleeve them if you want to keep them they will last longer than the originals too.
I can't remember what Pat used to do But Grumph will know.........
Amal could make awesome carbs but they had to make them to a price and Norton BSA and Triumph wanted something cheap.
If keeping original is not a problem (I couldn't be assed reading the thread) get a pair of new Mikunis or Keihins

[Voltaire]

I couldn't be assed reading the thread

clearly:innocent:

[husaberg]

clearly:innocent:

Still not gonna either..........:lol::rolleyes:
I have been distracted.

<img src="http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=299235&d=1405488773" width="240px"/>

[Motu]

I used to know a couple of guys who resleeved concentrics, one of them probably still does. He used a piston grinding machine to size them. Back in the '70's we threw away the monoblocks and bought new concentrics because they were the latest and greatest, they flogged out real quick, they couldn't be repaired, so we tossed them and fitted Mikunis. Mid '70's I found a pair (actually 4) of brand new unused Monoblocks, they were great and a far superior carb than the concentric....but expensive and fiddly to make.

For a Commando I've always thought the side draught Weber or Delorto looked a better option, and I saw a few done back then.

[Grumph]

Pat Thackwell in CHCH (hes dead now I am pretty sure) used to do a good trade in resleeving the MK1's, they are a silly design soft on soft wears fast. Sleeve them if you want to keep them they will last longer than the originals too.
I can't remember what Pat used to do But Grumph will know.........
Amal could make awesome carbs but they had to make them to a price and Norton BSA and Triumph wanted something cheap.
If keeping original is not a problem (I couldn't be assed reading the thread) get a pair of new Mikunis or Keihins

Pat was doing them well before any of the UK people were advertising the same. Bored the bodies and inserted a brass sleeve. Resurfaced OE slides. Very nice and sound engineering solution. Putting a brass sleeve on the slide still means boring the body as they are invariably out of round... Personally, I'd put a Mikuni kit on...

Re the attempts to run the modern Triumps in Dirt track...Same probs as when they ran the XS650 Yams. Wide crank and 180 deg timing make them hard to turn. The old 360deg Brit twins with a central flywheel were perfect for the job.

[Voltaire]

Still not gonna either..........:lol::rolleyes:
I have been distracted.

<img src="http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=299235&d=1405488773" width="240px"/>

re sleeving you palm?:laugh:

[Motu]

Re the attempts to run the modern Triumps in Dirt track...Same probs as when they ran the XS650 Yams. Wide crank and 180 deg timing make them hard to turn. The old 360deg Brit twins with a central flywheel were perfect for the job.

The Yamaha is a 360 crank, although they are easy to do an almost 270 on, the splines just don't quite line up. The Yamaha crank was too light for flattrack, and because they were 2 single cyl cranks side by side, the extra weight outside the centerline made them harder to turn. They still got sideways pretty well.

299251

[husaberg]

The Yamaha is a 360 crank, although they are easy to do an almost 270 on, the splines just don't quite line up. The Yamaha crank was too light for flattrack, and because they were 2 single cyl cranks side by side, the extra weight outside the centerline made them harder to turn. They still got sideways pretty well.

299251

Allegedly the Honda Cb350 Crank is actually heaver than the XS650's crank............

[Voltaire]

Allegedly the Honda Cb350 Crank is actually heaver than the XS650's crank............

Well after battling with a CB 350 twin at HD last weekend I can say they sure can boogie.
My mate on his 1050 struggled to beat the other one.
1m20 around HD for a 40 year old 350 is amazing
Who knows what they have done to them.
The two Triumph 350's were about 10 seconds back and they don't hang around either.
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p235/rednzep/Mobile%20Uploads/10511287_892821154065847_433009704683715038_n_zps0 5f363e4.jpg (http://s129.photobucket.com/user/rednzep/media/Mobile%20Uploads/10511287_892821154065847_433009704683715038_n_zps0 5f363e4.jpg.html)

[TLDV8]

A bump for the Commando thread.
One thing I have learned about Australia is if you work hard you give half of it away in tax.
New Zealand according to my accountant last tax time has a much lower tax rate if you put the hours in.
After being totally worked over and informed I will have to pay extra PAYE quarterly until June 30th next year it seemed like a good time to spend some money.

New Amal 932 Premiers for the 850 and a new cylinder head.

<img src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c345/manurewa/1974%20Norton%20Commando/Fullauto%20head.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Fullauto head.jpg"/>

[Voltaire]

Your better off on the Access Norton forum.
Full Auto heads are nice bits of kit.
I've yet to fit the electric start kit to my Norton, too busy riding the BMW's :yes:

[Hemi Makutu]

A bump for the Commando thread.
One thing I have learned about Australia is if you work hard you give half of it away in tax.
New Zealand according to my accountant last tax time has a much lower tax rate if you put the hours in.
After being totally worked over and informed I will have to pay extra PAYE quarterly until June 30th next year it seemed like a good time to spend some money.

New Amal 932 Premiers for the 850 and a new cylinder head.


What's the damage for the new head...& kindly - if it aint too big an ask - put it up on the 'Bucket foundry' thread - as an example?

[Voltaire]

What's the damage for the new head...& kindly - if it aint too big an ask - put it up on the 'Bucket foundry' thread - as an example?

Around $ 3000 AU.
You can spend a lot of money on a Commando as the original engineering is pretty average by BMW standards.

[Hemi Makutu]

At ~$AU 3,000- http://roadnrace.com.au/servicing.php yeah, you'd have to be hooked on Norton..

It even makes these equivalents for another contemporary classic look reasonable-ish: https://sso-bikes.de/shop/

[Voltaire]

At ~$AU 3,000- http://roadnrace.com.au/servicing.php yeah, you'd have to be hooked on Norton..

It even makes these equivalents for another contemporary classic look reasonable-ish: https://sso-bikes.de/shop/

I saw a chart of miles done on Commandos a few years ago, seems to inversely proportional to money spent on them to go faster.

[TLDV8]

Sorry about the delay, it was back to the Pilbara with it being a short swing so heading back to the east coast next Sunday.

These Fullauto heads look good but it seems these later ones have little quality control and there is no real warranty.
This one will need some work before it is usable, Kibblewhite valves etc should be on the way this week.
I had considered sending the 850's RH10 to Jim Comstock (He did an RH1 for my 750) for reconditioning along with replacement inserts for the exhaust ports but elected to go the new head route for long term reliability.
Commando's are fine stock when gone over, pretty much like any 40+ year old bike, it seems some folk get caught up in memories of the old days but to my way of thinking you get back what you put in but do not need to go silly on go faster parts which is debatable at best and one part can lead to needing another and so on.
This bike will remain stock except for the head and Pazon ignition.

Hope all is well in Old Zealand. (Sobering to read of the latest earthquakes)

[Voltaire]

After some months of sorting out the Trade Me purchase fitting electric starter took it out for test run and WOF.

Takes a while to get used to riding position and right hand 1 up 3 down gears in Auckland traffic but eventually got hang of it.

After getting WOF and forking out $54.00 for a years rego popped into Carbon Garage for a coffee.

There was another bloke there having a cuppa and he was on an almost identical bike other than being an 850.

Did another 50 miles around the Airport and Mangere.

Other than the feet being further forward than the BMW's its quite fun to ride, certainly sounds like a proper

motorcycle.:niceone:


331831

Next of the list is recommission the Ducati Darmah as $54.00 rego in Jan :banana:

[Diggers]

You weren't there to check out that Eldo/Ambo in the background? Saw one on Craigslist San Fran for about $6k. That guy from Canada writes great stories about riding his, still can't imagine drum brakes on the front:no:

[Voltaire]

You weren't there to check out that Eldo/Ambo in the background? Saw one on Craigslist San Fran for about $6k. That guy from Canada writes great stories about riding his, still can't imagine drum brakes on the front:no:

Funny you should say that.....no.
Drum brakes are fine, I toured Europe on a /5 two up, mind you a lot of the cars would have had drums too.

[sidecar bob]

After some months of sorting out the Trade Me purchase fitting electric starter took it out for test run and WOF.

Takes a while to get used to riding position and right hand 1 up 3 down gears in Auckland traffic but eventually got hang of it.

After getting WOF and forking out $54.00 for a years rego popped into Carbon Garage for a coffee.

There was another bloke there having a cuppa and he was on an almost identical bike other than being an 850.

Did another 50 miles around the Airport and Mangere.

Other than the feet being further forward than the BMW's its quite fun to ride, certainly sounds like a proper

motorcycle.:niceone:


331831

Next of the list is recommission the Ducati Darmah as $54.00 rego in Jan :banana:
Chai Latte or Soy? ya café riding fag. :bleh:

[Voltaire]

Chai Latte or Soy? ya café riding fag. :bleh:



would have preferred a cappuccino with cinnamon, but it was closed an the mechanic said he would make me one as I deserved

it riding my Brit bike and not hanging it up in the kitchen as an ornament :bleh:

[sidecar bob]

would have preferred a cappuccino with cinnamon, but it was closed an the mechanic said he would make me one as I deserved

it riding my Brit bike and not hanging it up in the kitchen as an ornament :bleh:

As my mate in the UK with A 961 Commando says, I think ill ride the Norton today, its a perfect day for a walk.

[Voltaire]

As my mate in the UK with A 961 Commando says, I think ill ride the Norton today, its a perfect day for a walk.

A 961...poor chap.....must have bought before the 1200 cc Triumph Thruxton came on market.

I think the only time I have had to walk was when my Honda 500/4 ran out of gas near Te Anau in 1984....and the R90s last

year when the top end ate itself in Timaru.

I thought about buying a Triumph 1200 Thruxton...but friggen 25K is a lot to spend on a weekend toy.

When the Jap imports start turning up for around 15K might have a look.

[eelracing]

I thought about buying a Triumph 1200 Thruxton...but friggen 25K is a lot to spend on a weekend toy.

When the Jap imports start turning up for around 15K might have a look.

Agreed they are pretty but way overpriced for what your getting.

[Cosmik de Bris]

I remember riding one of those 750 Commandos in the early 70s, nice bike for the times. The isolastic motor suspension took care of a lot of the vibration except when stopped. I pulled up at the lights after a nice smooth ride and my eye balls jiggled up and down so much I could hardly see. Nice to ride though, I think I had a 750 H2 at the time.

Cheers

[jasonu]

How about this one?
I would be interested in what people think it might be worth.
https://bend.craigslist.org/mcy/d/1974-norton-commando-850/6247046090.html

[Voltaire]

How about this one?
I would be interested in what people think it might be worth.
https://bend.craigslist.org/mcy/d/1974-norton-commando-850/6247046090.html

Depend, some people want things for bugger all and other will pay good money for a good example.

As someone who currently owns two Commandos it looks like good value for money but thats based on NZ prices which tend

to be on the high side compared to the US.

On the face of the add it looks like it is owned by someone who likes it enough to want to use it by fitting sensible mods.
You either buy them to ride and tinker with ( which is part of the fun) or buy to look at.
As far as investment goes......will depreciate less than a modern, but you spend it on maintenance.
Arguably the best British Bike to own as parts are very easy to get and there is a lot of info on the net and they do go quite well. Riding position is a bit too feet forward but it is what it is.

I've recently bought a 72 Interstate and currently getting my 72 Roadster ready for sale.