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Post by outboardbill on Mar 7, 2006 18:39:14 GMT -5
I am rebuilding the top end of my 1979 Special. Currently both the head and the cylinders are black. Was that original for 79 or was it painted by a previous owner? If it was originally silver would that have been painted or just bare aluminum?
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Post by spyug on Mar 8, 2006 14:45:22 GMT -5
Bill,
I suspect that it is a repaint, as any I have seen have been painted silver. Having said that, I seem to recall reading about a model that was termed the US Special which I believe had all black treatment including I think the engine cases and fork sliders.
I'll try and find that info again.
As far as I can tell, all versions came with paint coat on the barrels and engine block.
Hope this doesn't add to the confusion.
Are you doing a resto? Let us know what you are up to.
Cheers,
Spyug
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Post by outboardbill on Mar 8, 2006 15:59:30 GMT -5
Spyug,
Thanks for the information. I bought the bike and got it running after taking care of the usual suspects (carbs, manifolds, petcocks, brakes, tires, stator, etc.). That was about six months ago. When I changed the oil I noticed the dreaded bits of plastic and while everything is apart I will do the machine work, replace the pistons. cam chain and guide bar. I have been away from motorcycles for about 30 years. Thought if I was ever going to do it again it was now or never. I couldn"t afford a new bike (still have kids in college). I remembered way back in the recesses of my mind that the 650 was a cool bike. I got on the net and found you guys and Mike's and a 79 Special in the back of an old cycle shop for 200.00. It will be mostly restored with a few custom touches such as painting the chrome fenders and a custom taillight. I have parts all over the city now, hoping I can get it back together in time for some spring rides. You guys have been a great help, keep up the good work. Hope I can soon post a picture. Sorry my last question got posted twice. It did not seem to go through the first time, but obviously it did. If one can be removed that would be fine.
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orygun
Full Member
Franklin Oregon
Posts: 148
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Post by orygun on Mar 9, 2006 10:04:05 GMT -5
I can't speak for sure about the number of years Yamaha put out the painted engine but my 82 Heritage Special is stock with the barrels and head painted black, the cases are gloss black except for the side covers, headlight, turn signals, fenders and fork sliders are also gloss black. When I got it the paint on the barrels was mostly gone. During my restore two winters ago I repainted everything to original specs.
Personally I like the look, it's different, I haven't seen another in my area with the paint like this and it looks a little "sinister" if you know what I mean. I have seen a couple of the 70's XSs with the barrels painted black, I assume it was an preference of the owner.
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