Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Rick in WNY on May 18, 2017, 01:00:33 PM
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Well, it's done. My old life is over. I am officially starting over.
I bought my first Moto Guzzi.
She's a 2004 California Titanium with only 15K miles on the clock. The original owner bought it as a commuter that he could have his wife hop on the back for weekend trips. She never cared for the pillion seat, and when she got a chance to ride on a friends Goldwing... the previous owner had to go buy a Goldwing. So, this Guzzi has been sitting, waiting for some love.
And then I came along.
My wife and I went and took our MSF course last week, and the dealer that was hosting the class had my Guzzi in his showroom. I saw her from across the showroom, and walked right past several Harleys, Hondas, and a Triumph. I went right to the back of the room... that correctly oriented V-Twin called to me.
After a few days of research, talking to the wife, and looking at my bank balance, I called the shop. Got the backstory on the Guzzi. I called them again this morning, told the shop owner it was a "Go" on my end and asked when he could have it ready. His answer was "Oh, give me 2-3 hours..." I told him I didn't need it quite that fast, so I'm going to pick up my Italian Lady on Saturday.
I'll post pics when I get her home, but this is the fullfillment of a dream I've had for... quite a while.
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There's a lot to like about that bike.
Here's to new beginnings!
RIDE SAFE
Kev
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That engine should be a Hydro. Just make sure all the updates were done on the engine and possibly the lower triple clamp.
Nice bike! Congrats!
Tom
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Tom, what do you mean a Hydro? i'm not familiar with that term in regards to a motorcycle... can you please explain.
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Hydraulic liters , from the factory there was a major issue with these . A quick search on WG will clue you in . Good luck and welcome to the family .
Dusty
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Tom, what do you mean a Hydro? i'm not familiar with that term in regards to a motorcycle... can you please explain.
It should contain hydraulic lifters (which negate the need for periodic valve adjustments).
Unfortunately like 99% of the rest of the world Guzzi screwed the pooch on something with design or parts specs on the hydro motors and they were likely to fail early. Guzzi worked through 2-3 different fixes until they finally hit upon THE ONE.
Hopefully it was done as those kits are getting scarce.
The only real way to tell if it was done is to remove the valve covers and see if the valve lash adjusters were broken off (last step of the correct fix).
In theory a dealer could run the VIN against the Piaggio NA database, but sadly it was reported that some dealers submitted warranty claims on bikes that never got the fix, therefore that method would be unreliable.
I'm told that once the proper fix was in place that they are stellar motors and should give you years of hassle-free enjoyment.
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Welcome to WG, and sorry we are possibly bursting your bubble. If it was me, before signing any paperwork, I'd make *sure* about the hydro fix..*and* the triple tree recall.
I'm not sure about the single plate clutch problem with an 04.. I don't think so.
At any rate, go in with your eyes open.
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Tom, what do you mean a Hydro? i'm not familiar with that term in regards to a motorcycle... can you please explain.
Welcome to the best replacement for Facebook evar (as someone mentioned earlier today:)
Hydro means, this engine is Guzzi's first (and last) attempt at hydraulic lifters. The benefit being you never have to adjust your tappets!!! (or buy valve cover gaskets again :boozing:)
However Guzzi did not do so well with the implementation. Around 25,000 miles the CAM starts to eat itself. Spreads all the metal bits throughout the engine till its dead and done. There were three CAM recalls. The final being the necessary evil to keep the lump going.
Checking if the CAM recall is pretty easy. First, pull a valve cover off. Check the rocker arms for adjusters with a sheared off surface. Pic here http://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=45144.msg677444#msg677444. Then check that the valve spring caps are not magnetic. If these checks turn up good, good chance the recall work has been done.
However as I just found out with my 03 EV Touring, sometimes the recall wasn't completed fully. In my case, the tappets and buckets were not replaced with the recall parts and the recall CAM has now started to eat itself into bits :sad:
So I would take your recall step one (or two or three) steps further. Step one would be drop the sump, then peer up into the crankcase from down below. If the CAM has oil holes at the bottom of the lobe, its the new CAM. Old CAM didn't have em. Also check that the DLC (Diamond Like Coating) is still intact on the bottom of the tappet buckets. Step two is for the semi-ultimate assurance that your block will go the miles. Take the valve covers off (hopefully they are still off:), then remove one or both rockers. Remove the pushrods (making sure to label the top of the pushrod and the side it will go back in). Take a small magnetic pickup tool with long reach to remove the hydraulic tappet. If the tappet DOES NOT have a flimsy tin foil hat that holds the plunger in BUT has a circlip, the tappets were done too. Step three is for the true paranoic: that is to check the oil pump for damage. If the CAM started to go, the metal bits go into the oil pump as its pre-filter. You'll need to pull the timing cover, remove the timing gears and chain, then remove the oil pump (which is a most hateful experience). Neat part is while your in there you can put a valtech timing tensioner in there (http://www.mgcycle.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=68_126&products_id=347) and a higher output CNC oil pump (http://www.mgcycle.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=68_162&products_id=1985). Make sure you pre-fit the key into the oil pump sprocket key way. My pump's key way was too small, thus I had to remove the pump to dremel out the key way to fit. The oil pump is really no fun to remove. Even with heat its a PITA.
This concludes checking for the CAM recall. Hope that your block is good to go, because the pickup of that dang hydro is intoxicating :boozing:
Have no fear if your hydro hasn't had the recall work. Mike Haven of now-defunct-MPH Cycles has a few kits left and is willing to loan out the tools for a refundable fee (or someone on here will lend em to yah)
But wait there are more things to check.
Another sore spot of the hydros was a single plate clutch that failed rapidly. Single plate clutch was replaced with the standard dual plate clutch. Easy to check. On the RH side of the engine there is a timing inspection hole in the bellhousing. Take the cover off. Peer inside. If you see lots of flywheel to the right of the ring gear, your got double plate clutch. Here is a pic http://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=60644.msg926522#msg926522
Lastly, certain castings of the triple trees were known to crack. This was a goverment issued recall. Easiest inspection of them all. Just check the trees for cracking. You can also check your casting number against those that were found to fail here http://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=45144.msg677398#msg677398. If none, ride on into the sunset pilgrim.
Hope that your checks prove a sorted hyrdo.
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Now that we have scared the heck out of you. If it's all sorted so it's ready to go. They go nice!! My '04 EVT is nice! Runs and pulls very nicely!
I like the Hydro enough that I almost bought another one. It was pretty, looked like new and if the price had stayed near what I could spend, it would have been in my stable!
Hope it's all sorted! You'll like the bike!
Tom
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Couple other items to check out: make certain that the fuel line in the gas tank has been replaced with a 'submersible' hose, and that the plastic fuel filter has been replaced with a metal one. And you might want to replace the gas cap with an all metal one from MG Cycle.
Bloody ethanol!
My '04 EVT is still rolling with well over 200,000km on it.
Cheers!
G
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Couple other items to check out: make certain that the fuel line in the gas tank has been replaced with a 'submersible' hose, and that the plastic fuel filter has been replaced with a metal one. And you might want to replace the gas cap with an all metal one from MG Cycle.
Bloody ethanol!
My '04 EVT is still rolling with well over 200,000km on it.
Cheers!
G
That's about 125k miles : ) - if these bikes get sorted, they are DURABLE and tough. Congrats on a bike you may never want to give up. The sorting can be a great learning experience and you might bond more with the bike if you realize it needs a little tlc.
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Welcome, looks like we may be neighbors. I'm fairly new to Guzzis , can wrench a little, I'm in Ontario Co. Clifton Springs , if you need anything.
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If you are nearby, there is a Guzzi rally the weekend of June 9, 10 & 11 in Westfield, NY :bike-037:
Here's another suggestion drop by & see Jim Mignogna,
10277 State Route 34
Weedsport NY 13166
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Welcome to the best replacement for Facebook evar (as someone mentioned earlier today:)
Hydro means, this engine is Guzzi's first (and last) attempt at hydraulic lifters. The benefit being you never have to adjust your tappets!!! (or buy valve cover gaskets again :boozing:)
However Guzzi did not do so well with the implementation. Around 25,000 miles the CAM starts to eat itself. Spreads all the metal bits throughout the engine till its dead and done. There were three CAM recalls. The final being the necessary evil to keep the lump going.
Checking if the CAM recall is pretty easy. First, pull a valve cover off. Check the rocker arms for adjusters with a sheared off surface. Pic here http://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=45144.msg677444#msg677444. Then check that the valve spring caps are not magnetic. If these checks turn up good, good chance the recall work has been done.
However as I just found out with my 03 EV Touring, sometimes the recall wasn't completed fully. In my case, the tappets and buckets were not replaced with the recall parts and the recall CAM has now started to eat itself into bits :sad:
So I would take your recall step one (or two or three) steps further. Step one would be drop the sump, then peer up into the crankcase from down below. If the CAM has oil holes at the bottom of the lobe, its the new CAM. Old CAM didn't have em. Also check that the DLC (Diamond Like Coating) is still intact on the bottom of the tappet buckets. Step two is for the semi-ultimate assurance that your block will go the miles. Take the valve covers off (hopefully they are still off:), then remove one or both rockers. Remove the pushrods (making sure to label the top of the pushrod and the side it will go back in). Take a small magnetic pickup tool with long reach to remove the hydraulic tappet. If the tappet DOES NOT have a flimsy tin foil hat that holds the plunger in BUT has a circlip, the tappets were done too. Step three is for the true paranoic: that is to check the oil pump for damage. If the CAM started to go, the metal bits go into the oil pump as its pre-filter. You'll need to pull the timing cover, remove the timing gears and chain, then remove the oil pump (which is a most hateful experience). Neat part is while your in there you can put a valtech timing tensioner in there (http://www.mgcycle.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=68_126&products_id=347) and a higher output CNC oil pump (http://www.mgcycle.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=68_162&products_id=1985). Make sure you pre-fit the key into the oil pump sprocket key way. My pump's key way was too small, thus I had to remove the pump to dremel out the key way to fit. The oil pump is really no fun to remove. Even with heat its a PITA.
This concludes checking for the CAM recall. Hope that your block is good to go, because the pickup of that dang hydro is intoxicating :boozing:
Have no fear if your hydro hasn't had the recall work. Mike Haven of now-defunct-MPH Cycles has a few kits left and is willing to loan out the tools for a refundable fee (or someone on here will lend em to yah)
But wait there are more things to check.
Another sore spot of the hydros was a single plate clutch that failed rapidly. Single plate clutch was replaced with the standard dual plate clutch. Easy to check. On the RH side of the engine there is a timing inspection hole in the bellhousing. Take the cover off. Peer inside. If you see lots of flywheel to the right of the ring gear, your got double plate clutch. Here is a pic http://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=60644.msg926522#msg926522
Lastly, certain castings of the triple trees were known to crack. This was a goverment issued recall. Easiest inspection of them all. Just check the trees for cracking. You can also check your casting number against those that were found to fail here http://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=45144.msg677398#msg677398. If none, ride on into the sunset pilgrim.
Hope that your checks prove a sorted hyrdo.
There were different versions of the kit. Mine has different cam shiny hats different springs but the rockers are the old style. 85k and still going strong
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Have a 2003 Titanium with all three (3) issues resolved by Piaggio. The one that concerned me most, was the triple tree. Had a visible micro crack in it, and opted to ride it in for replacement.
Runs like a charm and love it. Hope you enjoy yours over the years to come.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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So this will be your first Guzzi. I'm curious to know what your first impressions are. I bought my first Guzzi (a V50) without a test ride and when I rode it home I thought it felt like a plank of wood. I came to love it.
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So this will be your first Guzzi. I'm curious to know what your first impressions are. I bought my first Guzzi (a V50) without a test ride and when I rode it home I thought it felt like a plank of wood. I came to love it.
Now that you mention it, the rider has to adapt to the Guzzi's idiosynchrocies, unlike some other brand bikes. At least I had to when I bought my `81 CX100 over 30 years ago. Rode it 45 minutes to decide if I wanted to do that or not. Still have it, 100K+ miles later. :smiley:
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Rick.. you still here, or have we totally scared you off?
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Still here... was having computer issues yesterday afternoon, finally got it sorted out, then went to bed.
Back on here this morning, and looks like I have a lot to look at tomorrow when I go pick her up.
The good news is, the current owner (bike is on consignment at the shop) is another engineer person. I'll get to meet him tomorrow morning, and will have the time to ask him questions. Supposedly, he's uber-fussy about maintainence, and made a point of telling the shop owner that all the recall work on this bike had already been taken care of. Again, I'll find out for certain tomorrow, but as a matter of professional courtesy, I do want to believe that Rodger has taken good care of this bike.
Yes, this will be my first Guzzi... to say it was love at first sight is pretty accurate. i'm expecting a few quirks, but hey, that's life when you're dealing with an Italian supermodel, right? :grin:
Thank you all for the info and pics, I'm sure I'll be asking a lot more questions.
pat80flh, I've been to Clifton Springs a few times... it's not too far from where I call home. If I say "Dundee NY" most people look at me kinda confused, but say "15 minutes north of Watkins Glen" and people have some idea of where I'm at.
nobleswood, thanks for the info, I'll see if I'm available that weekend. if so, I'll let you all know.
Again, huge thanks everyone, I honestly don't feel worried about this purchase, it should be a very good thing, and FYI, I do have better than average mechanical skills, but my biggest asset? I'm not afraid to ask questions! So expect them from me, especially here in the near future as I get used to my Italian lady.
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Attaboy. The best Guzzi you can buy is one that has been kept by a knowledgeable and caring "owner." :smiley:
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Congrats! I say don't worry, the bike sounds like it is fine. Lots to love about that bike!
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Pls correct me if I'm wrong, but it is my understanding that the valve/cam issue with the HYDROS was NOT a recall but a technical service bulletin and will not show up on recall records, so saying all recalls were done doesn't necessarily mean the lifter issue was resolved. If it was a RECALL the mothership would still be on the hook for the recall work forever and a day such as the triple tree issue. The work if done will also not necessarily show up on Guzzi records as well. Just so the purchaser goes in with the correct info and his eyes wide open.
Hope all is good, Tim
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Pics of my new baby...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v690/koehlerrk/Motorcycles/2004_Moto_Guzzi_California_Titanium_left.JPG.jpeg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v690/koehlerrk/Motorcycles/2004_Moto_Guzzi_California_Titanium_right.JPG.jpeg)
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Nice - tons of goodies on that too.
:thumb:
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Pls correct me if I'm wrong, but it is my understanding that the valve/cam issue with the HYDROS was NOT a recall but a technical service bulletin and will not show up on recall records, so saying all recalls were done doesn't necessarily mean the lifter issue was resolved. If it was a RECALL the mothership would still be on the hook for the recall work forever and a day such as the triple tree issue. The work if done will also not necessarily show up on Guzzi records as well. Just so the purchaser goes in with the correct info and his eyes wide open.
Hope all is good, Tim
I *think* this is true. My memory is suspect, though. I'd have a valve cover off and look post haste, anyway.
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Congrats! And welcome!
:bike-037:
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Rick,
Congratulations on the California you won't be disappointed! You hear allot about the hydro's (Hydralic Lifters, they Don't need adjustment) versus Solid Lifter (needs adjustment ) here on wild guzzi, if the recalls are done you are fine. If you call Kustom workz (716)651-0044 they are the dealer in Buffalo and can check the recall status with the Vin of the bike. The biggest concern of that model and it was not a factory recall is the clutch. I have a 2004 EV Touring and it had the single plate clutch that left me stranded in PA. Do a site search here and you will find pictures of the single plate clutch and the double plate clutch it will also instruct you on how to check the clutch to determine which one it has. If the bike has the double plate clutch you are golden. If it has the single plate they need to change it or reduce the price by $1500.00 If the bike has 15,000 miles it probably has the double plate clutch since they failed about 10,000 miles and every 2003 and 2004 California I have seen had the recalls completed. I live west of Rochester my email is smapes444@yahoo.com and my phone is (585)300-3143 contact me anytime. If you don't feel confident about checking the clutch I can meet you at the dealer and assist you. I don't want to dissuade you this is the best and most versatile bike I have ever owned and it is maintenance free.
We have our Moto Guzzi National Owners Club ralley coming up in June It is in Westfield NY we are open to all makes and models and it is a family friendly event. I hope you can join us you will meet great people and have allot of fun.
Jun 9 to Jun 11, 2017
WESTERN NEW YORK MGNOC RALLY
Early arrivals are always welcome. KOA Campground, Westfield, New York, 8001 Route 5, Westfield, New York 14787. Dinner Friday night. Sausage and gravy and biscuits Saturday morning. Awards for bikes ridden, chicken BBQ Saturday evening. Coffee and cold drinks all weekend. $12 rally fee, $10 per night camping, local motels provided on request. http://koa.com/campgrounds/westfield/. Contact: MGNOC Rep Joe Casey: 716-560-0562.
Welcome to the Guzzi Fraternity your life will never be the same!
Regards,
Scott
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Hydraulic liters , from the factory there was a major issue with these . A quick search on WG will clue you in . Good luck and welcome to the family .
Dusty
From my personal perspective, the hydro engine is the best of the old style engines. Yes there was an issue and if it was fixed, the issue was fixed. I have heard of the steering crack issue, but know one has ever "seen" a cracked steering stem. If they have, they have never posted an image or concurred with the recall every time I have ask. I like my hydro engine and will admit to abusing it every ride.
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It should contain hydraulic lifters (which negate the need for periodic valve adjustments).
Unfortunately like 99% of the rest of the world Guzzi screwed the pooch on something with design or parts specs on the hydro motors and they were likely to fail early. Guzzi worked through 2-3 different fixes until they finally hit upon THE ONE.
Hopefully it was done as those kits are getting scarce.
The only real way to tell if it was done is to remove the valve covers and see if the valve lash adjusters were broken off (last step of the correct fix)
In theory a dealer could run the VIN against the Piaggio NA database, but sadly it was reported that some dealers submitted warranty claims on bikes that never got the fix, therefore that method would be unreliable.
I'm told that once the proper fix was in place that they are stellar motors and should give you years of hassle-free enjoyment.
From what I have read, the hydro engine has a Crane cam with a different profile and timing than the solid lifter engine. The manufacture did not "case harden" them properly. In the grinding process, the case hardening was ground off and left soft spots that would wear.
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(http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g152/Dilliw/IMG_20150829_094423_zpspucecxjs.jpg)
My '03 post recall. The rockers don't have the tabs but I do know that a kit was installed. You can see the shiny hats and the different springs.
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In the original post Rick states "correctly oriented V-Twin". I like that description and think I'll use it in the future. Thanks Ricik.
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Pics of my new baby...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v690/koehlerrk/Motorcycles/2004_Moto_Guzzi_California_Titanium_left.JPG.jpeg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v690/koehlerrk/Motorcycles/2004_Moto_Guzzi_California_Titanium_right.JPG.jpeg)
The bike does not have the OEM foot peg set up. The Titanium and Aluminium were called Special Sports and had the driver pegs further back.
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Don't let the possibility of mechanical issues scare you. Almost anything ever made has it's quirks and a lot of them are far more trouble than found on a Guzzi. Tell your friend to price a fuel pump fix on his Goldwing, he'll need a loan. Most eighties Japanese bikes are part time classics, our Guzzis we ride as daily drivers. Only in Guzziland is 2004 considered "recent".
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I certainly can see him falling for that bike!
Welcome, Rick!
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I *think* this is true. My memory is suspect, though. I'd have a valve cover off and look post haste, anyway.
Don't the dealers put a couple of punch marks next to the vin number on the crankcase after the fix?
Nice bike Rick. If you need any work on the bike there is a good wrench in East Aurora who used to work at the the late Al Gillen's shop in Holland. Good chance that bike came from Al's shop.
Pete
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Congratulations on a great bike. I had this '03 for a couple years and it was a joy. You're going to love it.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Marques/Moto-Guzzi-folder/03-California-Titanium/i-MPrLDwP/0/ab42ac33/XL/002-XL.jpg)
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Thanks everyone... this is, hopefully, the start of one heck of an adventure for me. And if hearing all the "what could go wrong" stories haven't scared me off, I don't know what will.
Seriously, I appreciate all the info, sounds like doing my checks on it tomorrow will be relatively quick and make it easy to hand over the cash. I greatly appreciate all the help!
I'll have to take pictures when she gets home.
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Thanks everyone... this is, hopefully, the start of one heck of an adventure for me. And if hearing all the "what could go wrong" stories haven't scared me off, I don't know what will.
Seriously, I appreciate all the info, sounds like doing my checks on it tomorrow will be relatively quick and make it easy to hand over the cash. I greatly appreciate all the help!
I'll have to take pictures when she gets home.
Ok, Rick.. one other thing. It's been alluded that Guzzis are "different." It is true. I've been riding them a long time and many guys have told me that when they bought their first Guzzi and rode away their first thought was, "what have I done?" After several hundred or thousand miles, they say, "They'll pry this Guzzi from my cold dead hands." :grin: You will *love* the engine.. and after all, that is what a motorcycle is all about. Don't ride it like a Harley.. ride it like a Duck.
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Methinks being a 2004 it should be good from the get-go but a quick squizz under the rocker cover will tell the tale on the valvetrain. Bottom yoke? Not so sure. Clutch should be a twin plater that year.
Pete
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Checked the bike out yesterday, she's an early 04 but she has been into the shop to get the lifter fix. Popped the clutch inspection cover and... multi plate clutch. She's damn near bulletproof... so I brought her home.
I am... a very happy guy who now owns a Moto Guzzi.
Thank you everyone for the help, can't wait for tomorrow when I can put my fine Italian lady on the road.
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:thumb: Another case of if you live long enough, something will turn out right.. :smiley: Congrats.
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Another in the fold! Welcome.
Hope to see you both in Westfield in 3 weeks!
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Checked the bike out yesterday, she's an early 04 but she has been into the shop to get the lifter fix. Popped the clutch inspection cover and... multi plate clutch. She's damn near bulletproof... so I brought her home.
I am... a very happy guy who now owns a Moto Guzzi.
Thank you everyone for the help, can't wait for tomorrow when I can put my fine Italian lady on the road.
In case you didn't get a manual, Guzzi recommends 5w40 oil for the hydro engines. Enjoy the ride.
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In case you didn't get a manual, Guzzi recommends 5w40 oil for the hydro engines. Enjoy the ride.
Woo Hoo, the start of an oil thread. JUST KIDDING :evil:
Congrats on the new ride!!! You'r gonna love it!!
Tom
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Congrats on the bike. :thumb: Rev' it when riding. Shift at 5K and cruise at 4k. 5th gear is overdrive and properly used will get you speeding tickets.
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Thanks vibr8r... but she did come with a manual... and an extra oil pan gasket. Can someone explain WHY they put the filter inside the pan? And how often do I need to change the fluids?
Remember, Guzzi Rookie here... I have a lot to learn!
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Congrats on the bike. :thumb: Rev' it when riding. Shift at 5K and cruise at 4k. 5th gear is overdrive and properly used will get you speeding tickets.
I thought the Hydro motors were cam'd for lower rpm than the solid tappet Tonti Calis? And that said, IIRC even my Jackal was happy pretty much throughout the 3k rpm range, I don't think I held it at 4k often when cruising, even on the highway.
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Thanks vibr8r... but she did come with a manual... and an extra oil pan gasket. Can someone explain WHY they put the filter inside the pan? And how often do I need to change the fluids?
Remember, Guzzi Rookie here... I have a lot to learn!
Guzzi recommendation is to change the filter every 9K miles or once a year. Oil change every 3K miles. For most people, that means once a year to drop the oil pan and clean it out when changing the filter.. something you don't get to do on most engines. The other pro is it is invulnerable to damage there.
That's about it for the pros. :smiley:
It's no big deal.. unless.. you don't have a lift or grease pit. I never gave it a thought until I was laying on the driveway in SoCal..then it became a PITA.
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Thanks vibr8r... but she did come with a manual... and an extra oil pan gasket. Can someone explain WHY they put the filter inside the pan? And how often do I need to change the fluids?
Remember, Guzzi Rookie here... I have a lot to learn!
I believe the manual says change the filter every other oil change but I tend to do it every spring regardless of mileage. Your bike should have the drain plug with the magnets on it so you can see if there's anything floating around. I've never found anything on the plug or inside the pan worth worrying about.
One thing you might find is mayo from condensation in the oil. With cool temps and shorter days of winter I have found it when I drop the pan in the spring. I've learned to take a long, hard ride before I drop the pan now. That might result in a big puddle of puke from the airbox drain so make sure you park it where it's ok to mark your territory.
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OK, so what's a good 5w-40 oil for the Guzzi? I'm tempted to use Shell Rotella T6... 5w-40, full synthetic.
Opinions?
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Here we go!
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Some will say to use an oil that specifies SG rating . That's what I use.
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Here we go!
Wait until we get to the Uni vs. all other filters too!
Anecdotal, but I've used Rotella T-6 for the 12 years I've owned my Hydro and through 3 different formulations from Shell. It still runs.
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Wait until we get to the Uni vs. all other filters too!
Anecdotal, but I've used Rotella T-6 for the 12 years I've owned my Hydro and through 3 different formulations from Shell. It still runs.
To help the new guy out just like I was helped with my Hydro. Keep it simple. Shell Rotella t-6 full synthetic 5W-40 works and is priced right at most places. Can be had at wallyworld, auto parts stores and the like.
Tom
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Being a smallblock guy I don't have this "problem" :evil:, but is it time to mention the hose clamp?
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Sure! Why not??? :evil:
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Do it Muzz!! :evil:
Tom
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I dunno. :undecided: I would hate the Wrath of Dusty to descend on Me. :cry: :wink:
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Do I really want to know what this "hose clamp" is about? :Beating_A_Dead_Hors e_by_liviu
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Allright, I will! :angel:
Rick, the smallblock has the filter in it's own little hole with a cover, so I don't have to drop the sump. In your case as you have found out, you do. Although it is not from personal experience there are 14 screws around the outside and two in the pan somewhere. (Did I get that right guys?) Some have had the oil filter unscrew during use, which I understand is not good. :shocked: :cry: A fix in the usual Guzzi manner (cheap is good, free is better) was, once the new filter has been installed, clamp a hose clamp around it . I gather there are a couple of protrusions in the casting around the filter and the the screw on the clamp hits these and stops the filter unscrewing.
I can assure you, this is not in jest. If the filter does not unscrew itself, no harm done. If it does though, that hose clamp will save your motor.
Penderic probably has a photo of one installed, he has a photo of everything else! :grin:
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Hey Rick, I responded to your other post. The WNY rally really is a must, great folks, location, etc. There is a Guzzi dealer in Buffalo, Kustom Workz, and he will be there again this year. He brings demos and mechanics. they are great bunch of folks to deal with. Will be heading to WNY Friday morning. I'm leaving this Friday for the WV rally. Good luck with the new ride!
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(https://i.ibb.co/qFtb7G3/guzzi-rockers2.jpg) (https://ibb.co/qFtb7G3)
So after 45 years of owning, building and riding just about everything else, I came across an '04 California EV1100 with about 15K miles, in beautiful cosmetic condition. Bought it before I rode it. After 1000 miles I believe it is the best handling large displacement bike I have ever ridden, and I love it. Then, I see all the chatter about the "hydro" issue. I'm now expecting the thing to frag on me at any instant, and the joy is rapidly dissipating. I've called a dealer and asked to run the VIN to see if the cam problem was fixed, but haven't heard back. I am getting all kinds of conflicting advice from different sources on what to do. I am not going to sink a bunch of money into this-- I only paid $2600 and don't want to double my investment. I'd rather go all in and buy another with no issues. Can anyone look at the photo and tell me if I am riding this on borrowed time? And why the gold/copper paint on the rocker? Please-- no uninformed guesses. I got those on Facebook. Many thanks.
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Don't worry, be happy. :smiley: The adjusters have been snapped off, so I *assume* the work has been done. That's a lot of bike for $2600. :thumb:
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Congrats and Welcome! :cool: That is one beautiful, classic Guzzi! You will enjoy it! :thumb: :cool: :smiley:
(https://i.ibb.co/ryFw5n0/Screen-Shot-2018-11-29-at-6-37-22-AM.png) (https://ibb.co/ryFw5n0)
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That looks like the dull color valve spring caps(not fixed), broke off adjusters(fixed) but no lock nut. The recessed area where the adjuster locknut goes on is something I have not experienced before. If it was my bike I'd pull it apart and check the cam, lifters, and the rest. Could be a partial kit made to work. Someone saving money on the fix, using the old parts like the spring caps & rockers. I've seen Hydro's look all different under the cover, they had 3 fixes. AND you can't go by what warranty says about it, some dealers took the money and did nothing. Some motors are supposed to be good from factory but are not.
Could be OK too, I'd run the piss out of it and keep checking the oil & filter, drop the pan and check it all out. That's where the filter is and if you look up in block it's all open.
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That looks like the dull color valve spring caps(not fixed), broke off adjusters(fixed) but no lock nut. The recessed area where the adjuster locknut goes on is something I have not experienced before. If it was my bike I'd pull it apart and check the cam, lifters, and the rest. Could be a partial kit made to work. Someone saving money on the fix, using the old parts like the spring caps & rockers. I've seen Hydro's look all different under the cover, they had 3 fixes. AND you can't go by what warranty says about it, some dealers took the money and did nothing. Some motors are supposed to be good from factory but are not.
Could be OK too, I'd run the piss out of it and keep checking the oil & filter, drop the pan and check it all out. That's where the filter is and if you look up in block it's all open.
Burk, if you're not aware GuzziSteve had a career as a professional Guzzi (and other brand) mechanic through the hydro years. His response IS not an uninformed opinion.
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Thank you, gentlemen! Still uncertain as to the state of the engine, I will take the suggestion to run it and look closely at the residue in the oil pan. I changed the oil after owning the bike for a day and closely inspected the sludge (yes, there was more goo in the pan than I would have liked to see) but finding nothing of concern. I also tore the old filter apart and wasn't worried by anything in the filter medium. It does appear that I have the better clutch set-up, as there is a solid area next to the ring gear about 1/2 inch thick.
I have 10 other scooters and a VW trike, and I am seriously considering unloading everything and just buying a new California. I am in love with the way my '04 rides (except for placement of the foot controls, which are the absolute worst design I have ever encountered--improved slightly by the aftermarket brake pedal I scored off CL.)
(https://i.ibb.co/7N3dgQr/guzzi.jpg) (https://ibb.co/7N3dgQr)
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I have 10 other scooters and a VW trike, and I am seriously considering unloading everything and just buying a new California. I am in love with the way my '04 rides (except for placement of the foot controls, which are the absolute worst design I have ever encountered--improved slightly by the aftermarket brake pedal I scored off CL.)
(https://i.ibb.co/7N3dgQr/guzzi.jpg) (https://ibb.co/7N3dgQr)
The Tonti Cali 1100 is a great bike and hopefully you'll continue to enjoy the one you have.
That new Cali 1400 is also a great bike, but is related to the Tonti Cali 1100 only by name and basic architecture. For most purposes the motor, EFI system, and chassis are all new. You might love both, or not....
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I am seriously considering unloading everything and just buying a new California. I am in love
Well, you obviously get it. :smiley: Love is blind, they say.. and probably the reason most of us put up with some of the shortcomings of the marque. <Kreskin/1> I predict several Guzzis in your future.. <Kreskin/0> :grin:
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Yeah, the pic shows a 'Neither fish nor fowl' sort of setup. I'm not as familiar with hydros as Steve but to me it looks like it's an engine that has had part of the last kit put in it, not very well.
The 'Final' kit includes cross-drilled cam and new tappets, new valve springs, inner and outer, aluminium, (Shiny silver.) valve spring caps and new rockers with snap off adjusters with lock nuts.
Now in the 'Final' kit I just received for my turd the rockers are a golden colour, I don't know if that is relevant to anything or not but the rockers in the pic are not. The absence of lock nuts on the snap off adjusters is a bit concerning as well.
Thing is, while they are all going to fail unless they have the 'Final' fix some of them, especially after the very early run, do seem to last pretty well. My '03 definitely hasn't got the 'Final' kit in it but it's well over 100,000km and still isn't making any hideously distressing noises. In fact the motor is delightfully quiet! I will be fixing it before it does any more miles though. They Hydros are a lovely thing.
Pete
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FWIW I know little of hydro motors but had a friend with an Aluminum (hydro motor), purchased new, that had the adjusters snap off. We assumed the the shop that set it up had over tightened the lock nuts. He never had the upgrade done for as long as he owned it after replacing the adjusters.
Pete
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(https://i.ibb.co/qFtb7G3/guzzi-rockers2.jpg) (https://ibb.co/qFtb7G3)
There are not adjusters with the lock nuts. (just a puddle of oil in the unadjusted rocker)
They are not the bright alloy colored spring caps.
You do not have the cam update.
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FWIW I know little of hydro motors but had a friend with an Aluminum (hydro motor), purchased new, that had the adjusters snap off. We assumed the the shop that set it up had over tightened the lock nuts. He never had the upgrade done for as long as he owned it after replacing the adjusters.
If it had a snapped off adjuster, it HAD the upgrade.
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There are not adjusters with the lock nuts. (just a puddle of oil in the unadjusted rocker)
They are not the bright alloy colored spring caps.
You do not have the cam update.
I can't see the pic clearly enough on my pad of eyes but I'd take Wayne's word on it.
Pete
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Welcome Rick in WNY! :thumb:
inditx
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If it had a snapped off adjuster, it HAD the upgrade.
He bought it new. It never had the upgrade. We were 100 miles from home when the adjuster broke and left him stranded. The other rocker still had the adjuster. The broken nut was under the valve cover.
Pete
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He bought it new. It never had the upgrade. We were 100 miles from home when the adjuster broke and left him stranded. The other rocker still had the adjuster. The broken nut was under the valve cover.
Pete
Why would a hydraulic model have an adjuster and NOT have the update? The original rockers had no adjuster. The adjustable rocker was only included with the update.
Did the update get installed before purchase?
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Not surprising the adjuster broke off if the top hadn't been snapped off. If they are left on they hammer on the rocker cover. Recall must of been done by a numpty.
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Maybe I am wrong. I assumed the Aluminum had a hydro motor. This one definitely had adjusters. I had to ride back, get my truck and haul the bike home.
Pete
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<scratching head> I thought the aluminum *was* a hydro..
the things you find..
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Maybe I am wrong. I assumed the Aluminum had a hydro motor. This one definitely had adjusters. I had to ride back, get my truck and haul the bike home.
I also thought the Aluminum (and Titanium) had hydro.
If there was an adjuster, it was pre-hydro, or it had the update. Some updates were installed before they were sold.
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All the Aluminum's I seen were Hydro's, same w/Titanium's. Could be who put kit in didn't snap off adjuster or put regular adjusters in it. Easy to check, put TDC & check for play on rockers.......
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I believe my '04 sat on the dealer's floor until '07. I have a service record dated '07 from the original owner showing a 600 mile service. So, either my bike had the update done before sale, or it did not. Or, as has been suggested, perhaps it was done improperly. Or not. The only thing I know for sure is that there are no cracks in the bottom triple tree, so the front end will not fold up on me as the engine grenades and sends me to the side of the road. I'm not going to think about it any further.
Disappointingly, I went through the same worry wondering if the cam chain adjusters on my '05 Roadglide were going to fail without notice, and spent $1500 on an S&S gear drive conversion. And now I'm beginning to worry that the cam chain guides in my old KZ900 are brittle with age.
Damn these cams.
I'll have to remember to keep my cell phone charged when riding.
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Sorry if I missed it, but did you ride it? Guzzi's arent for everybody...... Be wise and heed he advice in this thread, much wisdom here.
Well, it's done. My old life is over. I am officially starting over.
I bought my first Moto Guzzi.
She's a 2004 California Titanium with only 15K miles on the clock. The original owner bought it as a commuter that he could have his wife hop on the back for weekend trips. She never cared for the pillion seat, and when she got a chance to ride on a friends Goldwing... the previous owner had to go buy a Goldwing. So, this Guzzi has been sitting, waiting for some love.
And then I came along.
My wife and I went and took our MSF course last week, and the dealer that was hosting the class had my Guzzi in his showroom. I saw her from across the showroom, and walked right past several Harleys, Hondas, and a Triumph. I went right to the back of the room... that correctly oriented V-Twin called to me.
After a few days of research, talking to the wife, and looking at my bank balance, I called the shop. Got the backstory on the Guzzi. I called them again this morning, told the shop owner it was a "Go" on my end and asked when he could have it ready. His answer was "Oh, give me 2-3 hours..." I told him I didn't need it quite that fast, so I'm going to pick up my Italian Lady on Saturday.
I'll post pics when I get her home, but this is the fullfillment of a dream I've had for... quite a while.
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Sorry if I missed it, but did you ride it? Guzzi's arent for everybody...... Be wise and heed he advice in this thread, much wisdom here.
I think you might be lost... :boozing:
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Beautiful bike congrats..... Why cant I find one of these 😂
Pics of my new baby...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v690/koehlerrk/Motorcycles/2004_Moto_Guzzi_California_Titanium_left.JPG.jpeg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v690/koehlerrk/Motorcycles/2004_Moto_Guzzi_California_Titanium_right.JPG.jpeg)
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Bags? Hideous! Fairing? Good! And why does it have a speculum behind the riders perch?
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Nothing wrong with a backrest.
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Sorry if I missed it, but did you ride it? Guzzi's arent for everybody...... Be wise and heed he advice in this thread, much wisdom here.
Bulldog, yes, I've been riding it. Put just under 6K miles on her this summer.
Let's say I am well and truly in love my with Guzzi. I am incurable... and I'm okay with that.