I have an '83 vf750c. First bike. Lovin it. I have found, much to my chagrin that the frame has rusted holes. Easier for you to look at pics for location. Dealer says no repair for liability, they suck. They offered a salvage title frame for $400 and $800 to swap frames. Means re-title with salvage. Don't like that idea. A straight frame with a good title would be acceptable, if cheap enough and I'll do the swap out.
Just to save yall the typin: I know this is an old bike and not really worth the money to fix and I may not get the money out of it. The short of it is I'm havin fun. I've never worked on bikes and now I get to take one apart and fix it; learn how it works. That alone is worth it for me. I mean what a puzzle challenge: right now 3 of 4 carbs sit on a shelf disassymbled and clean and the 4th is soaking in the cleaner. As you can see from the Vac Cyl they were extremely filthy rust filled. Then the fun part is getting it all back together and working. so that said...
1st easy question since Carb 4 vacuum cylinder is holey, see pic, should I replace all four?
2nd more elaborate question. I have started welding calsses two months ago. Ironically enough. I first thought to tack a jig to the frame below the rust to other points on frame to maintain geometry and cut out the flanged joint and fashion a replacement. I'd be using tig to weld the new piece in place. Remove the jigging and smooth out the tack welds. So my questions to the group would be what is your opinion on replacing frame vrs repair, repair method, source for a straight frame cheaply, and what kind of steel should I use or what Honda used to make it?
Thank you all in advance for your ideas and thoughts.
Beauregard
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It can be repaired... And if you are enjoying the work why not?!!!
I would however sandblast the frame down to bare metal so you can find any other portions that could be rusted.
However as you stated you financially easily find a replacement and use this one for parts.
Correct me if I'm wrong but aren't the frames used for part of the radiator plumbing? If I'm right the rust will be from the inside out and even sandblasting or sanding won't reveal the thin or weak spots. I wouldn't hesitate to weld a broken frame, but an internally rusted frame, I wouldn't take the chance. I see complete parts bikes with Titles cheaper than what you were offered. Keep looking and don't give up on the bike..
Yes the lower left portion of the frame comes off for engine removal and is used in the coolant system. The rusted portion is a Y shaped extension that the sub-frame bolts to. I'd be lucky if it were the sub-frame. That's $150 and three hours.
Thanks for the advice guys.
If it's not part of the coolant system, then I would definitely consider a welding repair. Don't just try welding up the holes and rusted spots though, you will need reinforcement tubing and plate anywhere you make a repair. preferably inside the existing frame, to maintain the factory look without compromising strength of the frame.