| Author | Message | ||
     Ljivasiv82 |
I've had my Ulysses a little over a month now and have been researching/reading up furiously on every aspect of the bike. I'm a DIY guy with almost everything I own. However, a motorcycle is completely new to me. A few of the major problems known with the bike I already addressed, like getting the comfort kit for the heat and new mirrors to help with the vibrations. I'm due for a 10k service right now. I found a place/shop near by but would like to inquire if there's anyone who maintains their own Ulysses close enough (300 miles?) and would like to do the 10k servicing with me. I was quoted $400 from a shop, which I'm willing to pay to you as long as I work with you and learn. Hell you don't even need to lift a finger, just provide the tools and the verbal direction as we go. Ideally you have a garage or a work space and the tools needed, though I'm willing to buy any extra tools as required. I would like to learn from someone with experience, you don't need to be a professional mechanic though. As mentioned I can pay cash, owe you favors or help you work on your own bike/etc if you need an extra pair of hands for a specific project. I'm a NYC local of 24 years and can give you local support if you, family or friends are visiting town. Anything, I just want to learn to maintain my own bike. I'm a very quick learner, was taking apart/rebuilding remote control cars at 10. | ||
| Reepicheep |
If you can't find somebody local, it's all pretty easy, the service manual does a great job walking you through all the important details, and we are all here to answer any questions. | ||
| Ljivasiv82 |
Thanks I know you guys are really helpful here. I think half of the problem is having the right tools for everything I'd need to do. Is the hardware mostly Metric or Imperial (US). It seemed like when I did some of the things, I had to switch between both standards. I'm not sure if it's because the previous owner replaced the hardware. Also the previous owner seems to have been a clueless wanna-be mechanic. He did things half assed, bolts loose, suspension settings all wrong. The engine makes a noise that based on my 1 month with it, is new. Though it is possible it was there but I'm REALLY listening now. I just want someone who has had a Buell Ulysses for a while to have a listen/look over. I certainly can do things on my own after I'm shown how once. | ||
| Reepicheep |
Actually, we can help with that also, and it's never been so easy. Are there harbor freight stores easy to get to in New York? Not the best tools, but their hand tools aren't bad, and for half of that quoted $400 repair you can set yourself up with a pretty nice setup. Here would be my list: 1/4 synthetic wratchet 1/4 inch color coded metric sockets 1/4 inch color coded SAE sockets 3/8th inch synthetic wratchet 3/8th inch torque wratchet 3/8th inch color coded metric sockets 3/8th inch color coded SAE sockets 1/2 inch non wratchet breaker bar 1/2 inch color coded metric sockets 1/2 inch color coded SAE sockets 36 Pc 3 In Screwdriver Bit Set with Case (http://www.harborfreight.com/36-piece-3-inch-screw driver-bit-set-97807.html) Something to drive those bits by hand (I have an old screwdriver thing, and the 4 in 1 screwdriver they sell would probably work (http://www.harborfreight.com/4-in-1-screwdriver-wi th-tpr-handle-69470.html) Screwdriver sets (phillips and slotted) Metric Allen Key set SAE Allen Key set Metric box end ratcheting wrench set (like this one, but I'd prefer a set with more sizes- http://www.harborfreight.com/7-pc-metric-combinati on-ratcheting-wrench-set-61400.html). Make sure they have a box end ratched on one end, and open end on the other. SAE box end ratcheting wrench set A digital multi meter Pliars, vice grips, wire cutters Many cable ties in many sizes Lots of electrical tape RTV form a gasket stuff (useful for more than just gaskets) Blue Threadlocker Anti-Sieze Propane with a trigger torch attachment like this: https://www.amazon.com/Bernzomatic-TS8000-Intensit y-Trigger-Start/dp/B0019CQL60/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&q id=1470169670&sr=8-1&keywords=propane+torch (or it's $25 younger brother) And a tool box. A three drawer ralley box would work fine, but a bigger free standing box is SO nice. For extra money, find a compact LiIon powered impact driver, and a matching drill you can share batteries between the two. OK, maybe that's over $200, but that's getting to be a REALLY nice set of tools to crack nearly any nut you might need to crack. You will add tools over time, but those will always be your "go-to" set. | ||
| Reepicheep |
And there are a few NY natives that can lend an ear so to speak... I'll let them chime in. | ||
| Griffmeister |
I may not be too convenient, but if you want to compare bikes for parts and cover some basic repairs I'm about two hours from midtown. Mine's an 08 with stock parts so you can tell if anything has been changed. Maybe someone closer will chime in, too. | ||
| Greg_e |
You can also get basic tools at Lowes and Homedepot and Walmart. The Stanley and Bostitch stuff is really pretty decent. | ||
| Sagehawk |
It's funny how we all look at tools as we grow older. 1984 and I was going to quit dipping snuff. Nasty stuff really. It cost me around 2900.00 dollars to kick that habit. But it was really nice with that 300+piece craftsman tool set and that brand new husky 250 xc. Haven't had a dip since. System really works! Been looking at the dr650's lately. I'm all out of vices to give up now tho! Lol! All those tools are still in box used a lot too. | ||
| Ducbsa |
Yes, they have a mix of metric and inch fasteners, depending on where the components were sourced. | ||
| Ljivasiv82 |
Reepicheep thank you for that long list, I saved it and will start checking some things off as I buy. Problem again I'm in a NYC apartment brownstone, I can't really roll out a large ralley box down my 5 flights of stairs. 8( heh Griff thanks for the offer, I'll PM you my cell. If nothing else, we can just ride... | ||
| Teeps |
Just my opinion, 10k service, assuming the bike starts easily and runs well. Clean or replace the air filter Change engine oil & filter (don't over torque the drain plugs 12lb/ft at most) Change primary fluid (I use H/D Formula +) Check/adjust the primary chain and clutch. Check brake pad wear. And, call it good! | ||
| Froggy |
I replied to your PM but I assume the spam system got it. The PMs here are handled by email, so unfortunately overzealous filters often delete the emails before they make it to you. I'm willing to help however I can, feel free to give me a buzz, 9145128355. I no longer really have anywhere to do any meaningful wrenching, so anything more complex than an engine oil change I go to the dealer. The 10k service is the first major service on the bike. The major services have you do things like change the fork oil and replace the spark plugs. Personally I agree with Teeps, change the engine and primary oils, adjust clutch cable and primary chain, and visually check the pads and air filter and enjoy. Your quoted price for a 10k service sounds a little low, at least it was lower than what I paid recently for a similar service on my 08. There are guides on here for each procedure, most maintenance operations can be done with a basic set of wrenches (both SAE and metric) and a decent Torx size 27 driver. | ||
| Froggy |
I made a picture guide to changing the oil a few years back, I'll work on getting the photos working again tonight - http://www.badweatherbikers.com/buell/messages/142 838/468812.html?1245154987 | ||
| Ljivasiv82 |
Yea I didn't get anything but I assumed that was the case. I guess I'd be more interested in your general experience with the bike. Even take it for a short ride and see what secrets "she" revealed to you during the ride. The reason I'd want to perform ALL the 10k servicing per manual, is as I said I'm not the original owner and the guy certainly didn't give me confidence he did everything right by this bike. For all I know this thing has never seen a proper mechanic. The things Teeps lists and you agree with, would we be able to do those things together at your location? I don't even know what a worn pad looks like. If not any direct help, just having you look it over, listen & ride could put my mind at ease. I can still take it to a mechanic for the 10k. I'll shoot you a text. Lyu | ||
| Court |
Photos fled Frogster . . . | ||
| Ljivasiv82 |
FYI to anyone so kind as to share their time with me, including you Froggy, I plan to come equipped with some of my personal favorite treats from NYC. Vineroes, a famous Italian bakery since 1894. My favorite fresh NYC bagels & anything else I (or you) can think off. I was also thinking Pizza but it's not going to be the same in a few hours. Yes this may be bribery, but it's from the heart 8) | ||
| Damnut |
If you want to take a ride to Massachusetts I'd be willing to help. I have a garage and my Dad was a tv repair man so I can fix it. | ||
| Damnut |
I'm about 20 minutes east of Providence R.I. | ||
| Jim2 |
Since you cant haul a tool box get a 5 gallon paint bucket. You can buy a tool belts that is made to go around the paint bucket that will hold screwdrivers and wrenches, etc. Then you have lots of room inside the bucket for tools. Comes with a nice handle and the bucket itself can be used as a stool to sit on. | ||
| Jim2 |
This is actually a really good deal for basic tools. http://www.harborfreight.com/professional-301-piec e-mechanics-tool-kit-45951.html?ccdenc=eyJjb2RlIjo iMzQyMjM0NjciLCJza3UiOiI0NTk1MSIsImlzIjoiMTU5Ljk5I iwicHJvZHVjdF9p%0D%0AZCI6IjEzNDMifQ%3D%3D%0D%0A | ||
| Teeps |
Damnut Posted on Wednesday, August 03, 2016 and my Dad was a tv repair man so I can fix it. "Fast Times at Ridgemont High"! Love that movie, watch it annually. skip to 1:20 in the clip. | ||
| Griffmeister |
Got your PM and will respond shortly. At least I'm closer than Damnut but not as close as Froggy. I do have access to the shop at work which is handy for being under cover as well as disposing of fluids. I have the Uly under seat bag which actually holds enough tools to do a service and minor repairs. The one thing that won't fit is a torque wrench so any unexpected repairs would need a follow up. | ||
| Ljivasiv82 |
Damnut thank you for the offer, have you been maintaining your own Ulysses & are you comfortable doing the 10K servicing as per the manual (or at least what Teeps/Froggy suggested? Everybody else thanks for the links and recommendations. So far I have 3 willing handymen, lets see who has more free time & a craving for NYC bagels 8). | ||
| Greg_e |
Almost everything you need for common service will fit in this box, it doesn't need to be big! http://www.homedepot.com/p/RIDGID-22-in-Pro-Organi zer-Black-222571/205440492 I have all three sizes because I decided I didn't want to have to dig anymore, but you really can fit everything you need in this one box if you are careful. The exceptions being breaker bars and torque wrenches. If everything is in there, it will be HEAVY! Might be best to break it up a little like all metric in one and all SAE in the other. Or sockets in one and wrenches in a second. You get the idea. I'll try to get some pictures when I get hoe if you want them. | ||
| Reepicheep |
I lived out of a 3 drawer portable tool box for a long time. It had to be kept organized, and some big things didn't fit, but it was nice for many situations. Sears has a few nice ones. | ||
| Damnut |
I was wondering if anyone would pick up on that catch phrase. Ljivasiv82, I don't have a Uly but have a XB12R, S3 and an S1. I have always performed all the services on all of my bikes. I am very comfortable doing any services on a Buell that are needed. Let me know if you want to ride down. | ||
| Ljivasiv82 |
Yea I was thinking a regular toolbox like this might work for most things. I already order electrical tape, Allen keys, Adjustable wrench. I'll probably get most of the bigger items once I work on the bike with someone, which will help me determine how much I actually need. Honestly I really LOVE my Ulysses. WHen I first got it, I was afraid and it felt like such a heavy beast under me. Now I ride it as snappy & comfortably as my fixed gear bicycle. Deep leans into turns, etc. My biggest complaint is the heat on the right side from my NYC stop & go driving. From what I read, most people were complaining from the heat between the frame & seat shooting out. My biggest problem is the frame heating up to an unpleasant degree, where it doesn't dissipate fast enough and there's a hot spot to the right of the rear head (on the frame). I installed radiant heat shield (shield w/adhesive layer, stuck on the inside of frame), which should deflect heat back into the engine. However, it didn't seem to work as well as I thought, perhaps because there's only like 1/2 inches between, it appears my bigger problem is convection and not radiation (heat). I think the heat is transferring directly through the shield & my next step is to get a radiant heat shield that also has an insulation layer. Again, the tight space is an issue on how thick it can be. Anyone have tinkered with this problem and found a good shield? I feel a bit lucky to have stumbled onto Ulysses. Originally I was looking into the Bolt for zooming around the city. That brought me into the Ulysses & fell in love with the utilitarian aspect of the bike. I can go on trips (bags), do some light off road, while having a powerful sport bike that easily takes 2 up. (Message edited by LJIvasiv82 on August 04, 2016) | ||
| Ljivasiv82 |
PS. Damnut the private messaging is not really working here. Email me pls, LJIvasiv@gmail.com | ||
| Damnut |
Email sent. | ||
| Court |
I live in NYC and the tools needed to work on a Ulysses are readily available and cheap. I, call me a "Buell prepper" sprung for about $5k to have spares of everything. I want to be able to keep this bike till I die. |
