1970 Ambassador Project

[Dave Swanson]

Got to put it in reverse for a day or so. 

I filled the engine with 3 quarts of oil.  I like to do this early on instead of just before first fire to check for any oil leaks.  In all of my prior motors this was just a precaution as there haven't been leaks.  BUT this time there was a small puddle of engine oil that had been dripping from the bell housing weep hole.   I will be tearing down to the point to check for leaks, which means the flywheel must come out.  The engine will stay in the frame as my highest hopes is that the leak is coming from the hollow return oil pipe/bolt area.  I have always had good luck using 2 new aluminum sealing washers at this junction, but I am hoping these were insufficient this time instead of the rear bearing flange. 

More to come. 

[Dave Swanson]

Once I got around to going backwards, I had it apart in an hour.  The culprit was the sealing washers not doing their job.  Hondabond 4 will be going in!

[Dave Swanson]

Dry as a bone with the oil filled overnight.  Not a hint of leakage.

[Dave Swanson]

Wiring is in process.  Using one of Greg Bender's harnesses is a rare treat to be savored.  Unapproachable  craftsmanship and attention to detail!

[Dave Swanson]

It is always a good day when both wheels are back on.

[Dave Swanson]

The exhaust system is a perfect match for this bike.

[Dave Swanson]

I received my stencil from Callie Graphics and performed my first stencil job, after very carefully locating the stencil according to my 1974 Eldo's seat.

[Dave Swanson]

There are only a few things to finish up and I couldn't resist jumping ahead a little for a photo shoot.

[Dave Swanson]

Gregory Bender 's wiring harness installation is complete, and went off without a hitch.  When an electrically challenged person like myself can complete this without the slightest drama, it is a testament to Greg's attention to detail. 

A short video of the smoke test.  😀

https://youtube.com/shorts/-_ULb1mTg2s?si=HAZXLltyWRefZ1vg

[Dave Swanson]

This video was taken after setting the timing with a strobe light and initial carburetor  adjustments. 
First time running in 40 years. 

https://youtube.com/shorts/JBNtjW6k2-I?si=8G4WGo2QJWzQ31Ro

[Dave Swanson]

Its ready for the maiden voyage.  Will happen this evening.

[Dave Swanson]

The first test rides went very well tonight.  It is a sweet running bike. 

[Dave Swanson]

Re-torqued the heads this morning after the short ride last night.  They needed it!   Will do this again in 30 miles or so.

[Pescatore]

How does the seat feel?
I'm wondering if the batting improves the comfort.

[Anomaly]

The first test rides went very well tonight.  It is a sweet running bike. 

  (you're an inspiration Dave)

[Dave Swanson]

How does the seat feel?
I'm wondering if the batting improves the comfort.

The seat feels good.  The batting is fairly thin, so no difference in comfort that I can tell