For all work enquiries, please bear in mind bookings are currently running at 6 to 8 weeks ahead.

Another thing on the pondering list is fuel injection for XS650 engines.

Time to get the back end of the winter service sorted. Chain, sprockets, bearings, seals, pads, clean everything and get some fresh adhesive lube on ready for the nasty weather. Some bits essential, some 'while I'm in there' but overall it's about knowing everything's good to go.

There we are then. Z1000 crank stripped, checked, truing nicely sorted to spec and welded. 👍

Initial phasing of 1 & 4 to 2 & 3. I use a laser as you can get it very close and tweak it from there. Much easier on a four cylinder like this (or twin) than a three cylinder.

Once the centre pair have been indexed it's over to the welding bench. Then I use a tube sized to match the thrust washer. Slip it over the pin and it protects the faces, but also gives a guide for where to end the weld.

Indexing the centre pair is critical as any error there multiplies as you move out. This is the easiest way I could think of to show fixed point indexing, you can also use a DTI. I don't like using a degree wheel as most aren't quite accurate enough for this (IMHO).

Getting cranky today. 😄 A hydraulic table is such a useful bit of kit in a workshop. 👍

The only good thing I can think of for riding in this rain is that it makes wiping road grime off the lights and reflectors easier. 🫤

What're people's thoughts on booking deposits? It seems to be a fairly normal thing now for workshops to take a non-refundable booking deposit, to the point where customers ask if I need one when they book. I don't as for the amount involved it's more hassle than it's worth IMHO.

I'd say a service is definitely overdue. 😄

Now that the bits I've been waiting on have arrived Sunday is a catch up day. Goldwing carbs ready to go back Monday, and the Rickman will be going home next week too.

It was that kind of run in this morning. 🫤

To whoever's hidden my box of 1mm split pins, I'm going to leave the office and make a cup of tea. If they're on the desk when I come back we'll say no more about it. 🤨😄

It's not a shipwreck though is it?

Right then, carbs.

All behind like a cow's tail this week. 🫤

The only good thing about Autumn starting is that at least you're not sweating when you put the wet weather gear on. 😄 Reminds me that I must get my finger out and do that winter service too.

"it's only one night, sleeping in the van will be fine." Monday morning :- "Hi, is that the chiropractor? Great, can you fit me in ASAP?" 🙁😄

Stafford show today.