1st Generation Magnas... what have YOU done?

[themachine78]

I recently acquired a 1984 V45, in boxes.  Oh joy!  Actually, yes, joy.  Now I get to put it all back together the way I want it.  Unfortunately there is quite the shortage of aftermarket parts for this bike, or I am just terribly bad at finding them.

So I thought a little post here might shed some light on the subject (for me) and in doing so bring all 1st generation oldies back into the limelight for just a bit.

Getting the work done is not a problem, I'm quite the little shade tree mechanic as well as painter/welder/cuztum choppa builda.
I'd like to get some different bars to widen and heighten my sit.  Yes, I know I'll probably need to get new lines but that's not a big issue. I was also looking at a different seat.  It seems that the more popular choices here for seats are Mustang and Corbin, neither of which offer a seat for this bike.  I'm not opposed to completely customizing the seat and covering it myself, but a straight bolt on would be nice for a change.

They're not bad bikes straight from the factory, I've ridden them off and on for years, but now I am leaning towards something a little bit more my own, and since this bike came to me like it is, I see no reason not to give it a shot.

Thanks!

[lragan]

Hey, we will gladly follow your journey with interest. 

Please be sure to post pics, or at least links to pics, so we can watch (and maybe even kibitz a bit!!)

[TPV65]

I will take a stab at this.  My 1st generation V65 is stock with exception of the oil mod, stainless steel clutch line and stainless steel front brake lines which I am in the process of doing now. 

First thing that should be done is an oil modification to get adequate oil to the upper heads.  Second would be to add a external cooling fan motor switch for those cases (don't want it to overheat) when you are stuck in traffic.  Another fan motor cooling option is to replace the stock cooling fan switch in the radiator which is rated to turn on at 208-215F with one that comes on sooner (comes on at 191-197F (ascending) and off at 182-187F (descending)). Third item would be a progressive front and rear shocks modification.  Also the stock fork brace needs to be beefed up with a plate under the stock brace.  Stainless steel clutch, front and rear brake lines. This information was from my internet researchs for my V65.

I hope this helps and it is general stuff not any custom ideas.

[dgc67]

I have read on the SabMag site that the earlier cooling is to protect the cams, as is the oil mod.  The rear cylinders tend to get hotter than the front for the obvious reason of their location.  So by turning the fan on sooner you keep it running cooler.

My V45 was a Cali model, (I assume since it had a canister and vacuum lines).  I removed all of that and replaced the carbs with non-cali ones.  I too have an "over ride" switch for my fan and lowered the bike with Progressive springs in the back and with the triple tree in the front.  Total lowering is about 2 inches (I did it for need, not looks)  I would love to do some custom work to mine but have not had the chance as it has been my daily transportation for the last year.  But that is about to change.  I just got me a little econo cage for commuting and plan on doing some stuff to mine.  Just ordered new fork seals and front brake pads.  I plan on stainless steel clutch and brake lines soon also.
I know of a salvage yard with a 1985 V65 rear end and am thinking of doing a rear disk brake conversion also.