Would it be better to try and hunt down all original stock parts. Or do a retro restomod using better upgraded parts? I figure since parts are missing. It'll never be worth an all original well cared for one.
I get the feeling he knew a bit more about the bike than he mentioned. How could you do all that little work and not pull the plug and see if there's spark. Pulled it up to the garage and everything. Definitely has a vibe to it though
Someone butchered the front fender too. Being a dry sump engine, oil may accumulate in the crank case after sitting for log periods of time, so it's good to check for that.
I passed on the bike I believe the frame is Compromised as the center stand tabs are broken off. They are welded to the frame. And the fiberglass tank is not compatible with the ethanol fuels it melts the glass.
That seller was sketchy, he knew more than he let on I guarantee it. Without a title a bike is worthless so I don’t know why he thought it was worth so much more cause it had a title, they all had a title at one point.
Same as all joints. Use a torque wrench. Its easy to deform aluminum. That's why they leak oil. Monkeys with wrenches typically got at it. Work on them with care and use new gaskets and Wellbond, and there will likely be no leaks.
This is a pleasant surprise, Joe. Welcome to BSA world. The trick with BSAs is to never ride them without taking a length of string, a Kirby Grip and some bubblegum with you. (And your bus fare home, just in case)... Kidding. The A50 was a solid, reliable pleasant ride. As with all this ancient stuff you need to keep an eye open for problems that might be arising. Basic biking practice back in the day... The front mudguard, (yes, mudguard! It's English and Fender is a guitar), and the petrol tank are regrettable. The side panels shouldn't be hard to find. Enquire at BSA owners clubs if all else fails. I vote that you keep it... 🇬🇧👍
Now you're talking my language. Love the old Brit bikes... they're pretty easy to work on. Lots of parts available and lots of videos on RUclips to walk you through it. The Honda speedo and tach or an odd choice but 2 grand is a good deal as long as there's nothing major going on in the engine. It probably had grey-faced Smith's gauges originally.
In '74 I had a 650 Bonny. Rebuilt the motor top end and rings and changed the side screws to allen head. When I finished it didnt leak a drop! Nothin like a Brit twin. Those were the best days ever!!
@@bsimpson6204 I have to agree, the only way they truly keep their oil in is a split cases tear down and modern case bonding sealants during reassembly. Even then it is only temporary. If you park them up though they stay tight! The vibes just break down any sealants eventually.
Joe, differences in spark plug condition would indicate either the better looking plug is newer, or cylinder condition issues with the right cylinder. B oth cylinders are run on the same single carburetor, one cylinder running rich is nearly impossible.
I enjoyed it! I grew up in Italy and went thru a British phase in the '70s, (mostly Triumphs), and had my share of oil leaks, finnicky timing and electrical gremlins which can drive you absolutely insane. However, when properly tuned and running well, nothing beats the pure bliss I experienced riding a late '60s Triumph on the winding roads of the Italian countryside.
Why does nobody ever buy a freakin' WORKSHOP MANUAL !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! facepalm smh !!!!! Seriously, it will save time, money and stop expensive mistakes happening, it's a must have for any bike.
There are plenty of quality modern 12 volt electronic ignition kits avaliable. 50 odd year old points can be unreliable. Check oil. Leaks are normal! Great bike! Love it!😊
The oil leak is probably due to wet sumping, the oil drains from the tank on standing, it's best to drain the crankcase when they have stood for a while, when you started the oil in the crankcase would be forced out of the breather, not sure with that model, but the 650's routed the breather to oil the chain, which could be why the oil was coming out around the chain. The back wheel doesn't look standard, but overall looks like a decent bike, amazed it started with so little work after standing for so long. You probably know but parts lists and workshop manuals are readily available to down load free.
With the single carb, I'm thinking this may be a Thunderbolt, your basic BSA twin. The tank is from a Spitfire Hornet, I believe, which was the real hot rod at the time. I had one of those in the 70's and it ran really great - when it ran. it's a 360 degree twin; both pistons go up and down together, firing alternately. I think they make the most beautiful noise in motorcycling. Have fun!
The Thunderbolt was a 650, (A65), this is a 500, (A50). Called the Star or the Star Twin in the UK, and the Royal Star for export. From 1966 UK models were also called Royal Star. Solid, reliable bike. 🇬🇧👍
@@atschannHaving ridden Triumphs from 1959 Bonnie then in ‘72 I bought a Bonnie which I had until 2009!! There’s nothing like moving down a country road at night when your headlight suddenly gets brighter which is appreciated until a few seconds later ALL LIGHTS ARE OUT thanks to Joseph Lucas, the Prince of Darkness!!! Certainly tests your pucker factor!!
Keep in mind that if a British bike is not leaking oil, it's because there isn't any...one of the many things that meant the demise of the British motorcycle industry.
I think you’re right Joe, that guy probably picked that bike up for cheap as a parts bike and threw enough parts on it to make it look complete. He had no intentions of ever getting it running, he’d have checked for spark at least if he did.
Bingo. He threw the absolute cheapest tank on it, took the side covers, I am pretty sure the front wheel is incorrect, and possibly the rear as well. He got quite lucky that it runs as well as it does.
The guy that sold you the bike did not seem to honest but you knew that and got a fun project. I have been working on and ridden 😂 British bikes for a long time and I find it hilarious how your commentary crew all got the chance to Regurgitate the one piece of stereotypical British bike knowledge that they had.
Joe, you really need to start bringing that second ramp to put beside the bike so you can walk down the other ramp instead of jumping down and trying to balance everything lol
Hey bud. You have a oil line that goes behind the chain. And also remember you have leather seals in that engine. They now make modern seals for the older British bikes. I would replace all the seals and keep this one.
This x100. This one is going to need a lot of work to turn it into a keeper, but is worthy IMO. Do a complete teardown and take us through it, please! You will learn a lot, and gain some new useful skills along the way. I'll be watching them all fr! So, here is a list of to-do's: Disassemble, and do a complete frame inspection to find the cracks (you can be sure, some are there). Repair and repaint Replace all and I mean all engine seals with the uprated modern seals Add the sump cover plate with drain. Replace the oil lines. Replace that pretty fuel tank 😢 with an ethanol-friendly steel tank (~ $300 depending on condition, spend a little more and get one complete with the dual petcocks) and sell this tank - or at least, use a Kreem 3-stage tank liner. Carb kit Air cleaner! Replace headstock bearings and races Replace/service swing arm bushings Chain is likely worn out, or close to worn out Rebuild brakes, prob need to turn the drums and replace shoes Rebuild forks Prob needs new shocks Swap out instruments for rebuilt Smiths Find some sidecover reproductions Replace that sad front fender, or at least rehang it I know it's a long list, but it will be a very cool ride when you are done, and you will develop a real relationship with this scooter. Worth it!
It's not leaking it's just marking its spot. One thing about old bikes like BSA or Harley you never needed to oil your leathers the bikes ahead of you when you rode in a pack would oil your leathers for you.
Wow! You can come up with the most interesting bikes! To hear the owner say "it only needs gas", im curious to see if it has a piston and rod in the crank case or if there is a brick and a hamster inside 😂. Thanks for the content sir! You help me get through my boring work days while teaching me a ton! Appreciate you.
The fiberglass tank will make a good wall hanger, modern gas turns them into gel. Also, pick up a new sump plate with a drain, makes it easy to clear a wetsump after sitting for a few weeks.
There's nothing better than the sound of a British bike! Just be glad that one isn't set up like my old Norton 600 Nomad, with the Lucas Competition Magneto located DIRECTLY underneath those leaky Amals. That mag looks like a laser light show in the dark, and way more than once I've had to put the fire out under the seat, getting it started. Once it starts, no leaks. As someone else pointed out, if a Brit bike ain't leaking oil?? It's out.
Clutch plates are most likely stuck put in gear pull clutch in and rock back and forth hopefully they free up. Some hardware is witworth if you’re having trouble finding something to fit.
The best way to unstick a clutch without tearing it all the way down is get it going get it in gear while you're running with it and just write it with the clutch in and it'll come undone
The tank, or at least the decal stickers are from a BSA 441 Victor Special, also a one cylinder thumper. I guess you have a frankincycle on your hands. All in all should be a fun project, get used to shifter and brake on opposite sides. Its a bit of a learning curve, I jammed on the back brake trying to down shift a few times.
Joe as many bikes as you repair is there a reason you don't have a lift? Do you not like them or do you just love your flooring so much you want to put your face on it ? Please invest in your channel , invest in your content , invest in your future, please find a sponsor and get a lift
The only carburetor worse than a British Carb is an Italian "AD" Carb (adjust daily)....lol British engineers designed everything to leak oil..............it's normal.....roflmao!
BSA: Standing for Birmingham Small Arms Company Ltd, BSA was founded in 1861, for the production of firearms. The brand’s motorcycle division was set up in 1903, and the first motorcycle followed in 1910.
You can tell it is a genuine Brit by the oil leaks - confirmed. The seller seemed a little vague about certain aspects of the Bike, at least it is running.
Great find. Get a parts book and shop manual right away. You need to run A HIGH ZINC CONTENT OIL in these bikes. I use Castrol GTX 20W50 High Zinc in my Vintage Triumph. Same as your transmission. These bikes use bronze bushings throughout the engine and gearbox. Don't use GL5 gearbox oil. You appeared to have put the wrong gearbox oil in it. Drain it and put the proper lubricants in. Failure to use the proper oil will cause rapid wear on those bushings. Also avoid the use of silicone. I use gaskets with non silicone type sealants. Wellbond is one good option. Nice bike! The 500 twins are nice bikes. The 650's have more power and speed, but they vibrate a little more. If you have any questions ask away. I have been into British bikes for 39 years now.
Great video cool old BSA , we had a BSA TNT in the garage when I was a kid that was back in 1980 I was twelve 😂 wow I'm as old as the bike you bought time flies when you're having fun keep up the good work, awesome Chanel, it's my favorite.👍
Nice, a road bike makes a pleasant change from the sod busters and it's a classic - sounds great! The leaking is apparently a feature to let you know you still have oil. BSA or Birmingham Small Arms was founded in 1861, famous for military & sporting firearms, munitions, air rifles, bicyles, cars, buses and other industrial manufacturing. Started making motorcycles from 1910. Company closed down in 1972 and now making a comeback.
Well, at least among the best-looking. All the Brit parallel twin makers had great-looking models. I especially like the looks of a BSA Gold Star 500cc single - but admit that might be a little earlier than "the late 60s" category.
Having been a factory trained BSA/Triumph mechanic in my younger years, a couple of things. had you used the tickler until it made a mess and it probably would have started on the first few kicks. That is an awesome motorcycle, once you fix the major leak it will still leak, but that is part of it's personality. You can use Japanese made gaskets and things get much better. BUT just for info, when we walked into the factory classroom, the first thing the instructor said "if you ever get a Triumph or BSA that doesn't leak...send it back and we will fix it". Seal up the tank with Caswell tank sealer and all will be good. Also the petcocks, one is a reserve (has a tube) and the other is main (no tube).
@@billb7583 Yep, the tube side is the main, which makes the bike run out and THEN you switch on the no tube side for reserve which lets the last bit of gas get used. Of course you have to drop at least one to inspect for the tube, and when still new to you probably should drop both just so you know what you have. Anything goes on old bikes.
I had a BSA C15 250 - I also wish that I’d still got it. But, we’re all wise in hindsight. It was one of the last ones made so would be worth good money now. Good to see an old UK bike brought back to life.
i had heard they were hard on oil and not a lot of cooling... most guys ran 20w50 synthetic and changed it often ... motor is certainly tight ...Amal carb was a trip.
I confess to having a mild case of OCD which causes me to hope you do a thorough cleaning of your shop floor at some point. Would look much better and more professional. Otherwise I love your channel and look forward to each new video.
2V, that side bolt on the carb looks like it needs a copper washer. That is a very sweet running smoke free engine so so far very good unit! I think you lucked out on this one! Congrats!
Great job. Well done lad. I find it therapeutic seeing these bikes cough up their lungs and spring back into life! I grew up with biker parents and have had several projects myself over the years. The joy never leaves your soul! Great channel. Long time sub.
This is an A50, which I think makes it a 500cc - the correct petcocks are a push/pull design with a knurled knob you push in to shut off the gas and pull out to open them. And yes, Amals pretty much always leak. I believe the Anglophiles will curse me, but there is a conversion you can do to replace the Amal with a Mikuni...so you can live a leak free life. A really fun bike to ride - they handle really well and sound SO great.
Really enjoyable video. You have me flashing back to my 1967 Triumph T100C. These British bikes run great as long as you keep them tuned up, which needs to be done very frequently. I predict you will love the ride and handling.
A50 ROYAL STAR 1958 USA & home UK 499CC CARB SPEC R26/7 CARB SIZE 26MM MODEL 376 100 MAIN NEEDLE JET 622/122-106 NEEDLE POSITION 2 GASKET PACK 622/208 REPAIR KIT RKC/561 LET ME KNOW IF YOU WANT AMAL MANUL FOR ALL MAKES & MODELS INCLUDING SPARE PARTS LIST IF STILL AVAILABLE CHEERS BRIAN
Flat head screws are THE WORST, RIGHT?!?!?! MY WHOLE LIFE i have never understood why anyone would use a flat head screw on anything hahaha and i worked on fighter jets most my life, and most the outer panels are held on by high-torque screws. They are worse than flat heads!
In the monobloc carb float chamber, the little brass spacer usually goes in after the float, yours was in first. Its usually the first thing to come out and then the float, and that positions the float below the needle. That may be different for that model ? But i doubt it. Is that an A50 or A65 thunderbolt ? A 68 thunderbolt would usually have a mk2 concentric carb. If it's been standing, then the bob weights, behind the points, may be sticky. But you likely helped that when you soaked it in wd40. Look forward to more vids, i am working on a 67 thunderbolt.
The button that pushes the carb float down is for starting, commonly called a carb tickler.
Yep. The Amal is super simple and works very well.
I never knew what the tickler actually did until now, makes perfect sense, thanks
Have done it, But never could figure why they called it a "Tickler"? just keep your finger on it for a while.
@@adoreslaurel I always used to push it up and down several times until petrol flooded out
@@adoreslaurel Yes, quite. Never pump it.
One thing about British bikes. If it's not leaking oil it doesn't have any in it.
😂worked in a Porsche audi shop, reason the British don't build computers is because they don't leak oil
Yep.Just like H/D...😂
🤣
Would it be better to try and hunt down all original stock parts. Or do a retro restomod using better upgraded parts? I figure since parts are missing. It'll never be worth an all original well cared for one.
very true!
Hi Joe, when i was 18 years old i had one of those, in its day you could not beat the BSA Bike. Regards from the UK.
I get the feeling he knew a bit more about the bike than he mentioned. How could you do all that little work and not pull the plug and see if there's spark. Pulled it up to the garage and everything. Definitely has a vibe to it though
yes he is lying for sure
Because the way he works is totally screwed up he's not a mechanic
Someone butchered the front fender too. Being a dry sump engine, oil may accumulate in the crank case after sitting for log periods of time, so it's good to check for that.
He don't know what dry sump means
Of course he does jesus
Hope it works out for you. Can’t say that seller seemed overly honest.
as we say over here across the pond, he may have been telling pork pies
Seller was obviously a sleeze
Sellers are never honest about anything I always do my due diligence when buying stuff and if they say I can't check something I walk away from it.
Do they know they are being recorded when he goes to all these sellers and asks questions?
"Just needs gas" was the first red flag
Did you tickle the carbs before kicking it? Maybe I missed that part. Also, I like the Champion plugs over NGK for these british bikes.
Cooochicooochicoo
Use non- resistor plugs
I passed on the bike I believe the frame is Compromised as the center stand tabs are broken off. They are welded to the frame. And the fiberglass tank is not compatible with the ethanol fuels it melts the glass.
Check around, maybe you can trade for the correct gas tank
Common problem, the side stand and center stand lugs often need rewelding. You can actually buy replacement side stand lugs.
Now that's a fine ride. It appears to be in great condition. Had a 650 lightning dual carb back in the day and loved it. You stole it.
That seller was sketchy, he knew more than he let on I guarantee it. Without a title a bike is worthless so I don’t know why he thought it was worth so much more cause it had a title, they all had a title at one point.
Don't tighten the float bowl cover too tight. Easy to deform. Your first British bike! Rember it's going to leak a little oil no matter what you do.
Same as all joints. Use a torque wrench. Its easy to deform aluminum. That's why they leak oil. Monkeys with wrenches typically got at it. Work on them with care and use new gaskets and Wellbond, and there will likely be no leaks.
@@danpos1971 as long as your breather is functioning ok.
This is a pleasant surprise, Joe. Welcome to BSA world. The trick with BSAs is to never ride them without taking a length of string, a Kirby Grip and some bubblegum with you. (And your bus fare home, just in case)... Kidding. The A50 was a solid, reliable pleasant ride. As with all this ancient stuff you need to keep an eye open for problems that might be arising. Basic biking practice back in the day... The front mudguard, (yes, mudguard! It's English and Fender is a guitar), and the petrol tank are regrettable. The side panels shouldn't be hard to find. Enquire at BSA owners clubs if all else fails. I vote that you keep it... 🇬🇧👍
Bravo, great looking bike. This one is a keeper, like 5,000 others. Now let's tear it apart.
Now you're talking my language. Love the old Brit bikes... they're pretty easy to work on. Lots of parts available and lots of videos on RUclips to walk you through it. The Honda speedo and tach or an odd choice but 2 grand is a good deal as long as there's nothing major going on in the engine. It probably had grey-faced Smith's gauges originally.
In '74 I had a 650 Bonny. Rebuilt the motor top end and rings and changed the side screws to allen head.
When I finished it didnt leak a drop! Nothin like a Brit twin. Those were the best days ever!!
I agree. I have had my 650 Bonneville for 39 years. I love the sound and feel of the British bikes.
If your British bike isn't dripping oil there's no oil in it, and that’s from personal experience lol
@@bsimpson6204 Never had much trouble keeping mine oil tight.
@@bsimpson6204 I have to agree, the only way they truly keep their oil in is a split cases tear down and modern case bonding sealants during reassembly. Even then it is only temporary. If you park them up though they stay tight! The vibes just break down any sealants eventually.
Joe, differences in spark plug condition would indicate either the better looking plug is newer, or cylinder condition issues with the right cylinder. B oth cylinders are run on the same single carburetor, one cylinder running rich is nearly impossible.
It's possible. There 'd be a flat-washer between a carb and an intake manifold. It changes an amount of a gas flow for l/r cylinders.
@@writerfromarkansasno 😅
@@writerfromarkansasthat doesn't even make sense
You didn’t tickle the carb……
Please…buy a “points file” and send me the bill😊
It’s British…. Of course it leaks oil… all British vehicles leak oil. It’s part of the experience. 😂 but wow what great find. Looks like a lot of fun.
DO NOT USE SANDPAPER .on the points A steel finger nail file works perfectly .
He won't listen, he is a hack
I enjoyed it! I grew up in Italy and went thru a British phase in the '70s, (mostly Triumphs), and had my share of oil leaks, finnicky timing and electrical gremlins which can drive you absolutely insane. However, when properly tuned and running well, nothing beats the pure bliss I experienced riding a late '60s Triumph on the winding roads of the Italian countryside.
Sounds like good memories for sure!
Why does nobody ever buy a freakin' WORKSHOP MANUAL !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! facepalm smh !!!!!
Seriously, it will save time, money and stop expensive mistakes happening, it's a must have for any bike.
There are plenty of quality modern 12 volt electronic ignition kits avaliable.
50 odd year old points can be unreliable.
Check oil. Leaks are normal!
Great bike! Love it!😊
Guy says just put gas in it. Then u find out no petcock at all. Guy is a scammer.
The oil leak is probably due to wet sumping, the oil drains from the tank on standing, it's best to drain the crankcase when they have stood for a while, when you started the oil in the crankcase would be forced out of the breather, not sure with that model, but the 650's routed the breather to oil the chain, which could be why the oil was coming out around the chain. The back wheel doesn't look standard, but overall looks like a decent bike, amazed it started with so little work after standing for so long. You probably know but parts lists and workshop manuals are readily available to down load free.
🤔 there's this little tool you can buy it's called a points file. I'm not surprised you don't own One.By now.
(Just saying) 🙃😊
Be careful with the battery too, they are usually positive ground from that time period.
That's why the fuse was on the black wire and the red just had a ring terminal.
Thanks for the great content. Remember, disposable nail files are your friends when cleaning points cleans both sides at the same time?
With the single carb, I'm thinking this may be a Thunderbolt, your basic BSA twin. The tank is from a Spitfire Hornet, I believe, which was the real hot rod at the time. I had one of those in the 70's and it ran really great - when it ran. it's a 360 degree twin; both pistons go up and down together, firing alternately. I think they make the most beautiful noise in motorcycling. Have fun!
it does have the nicest sound.
The Thunderbolt was a 650, (A65), this is a 500, (A50). Called the Star or the Star Twin in the UK, and the Royal Star for export. From 1966 UK models were also called Royal Star. Solid, reliable bike. 🇬🇧👍
The tank came off a B44 Shooting Star 441
This bike is actually pretty cool
Good looking, nice shape, and I like the size, that medium range
Lucas electric, the man who invented darkness!
Yup. Lucas - The Prince of Darkness.
The Germans never bombed the Lucas factory in WW2 because they couldn't find it. The lights didn't work.
@@atschannHaving ridden Triumphs from 1959 Bonnie then in ‘72 I bought a Bonnie which I had until 2009!! There’s nothing like moving down a country road at night when your headlight suddenly gets brighter which is appreciated until a few seconds later ALL LIGHTS ARE OUT thanks to Joseph Lucas, the Prince of Darkness!!! Certainly tests your pucker factor!!
Any electrical brand system will have trouble if it's not maintained. No problem with Lucas. My 68 B44 was POS+ ground
@@bobpickersgill4470 I have a 67 and agree.
Keep in mind that if a British bike is not leaking oil, it's because there isn't any...one of the many things that meant the demise of the British motorcycle industry.
Harley's leak oil too
I think you’re right Joe, that guy probably picked that bike up for cheap as a parts bike and threw enough parts on it to make it look complete. He had no intentions of ever getting it running, he’d have checked for spark at least if he did.
Bingo. He threw the absolute cheapest tank on it, took the side covers, I am pretty sure the front wheel is incorrect, and possibly the rear as well. He got quite lucky that it runs as well as it does.
@@120man That's not the cheapest tank, that's a b44 Shooting Star fibreglass tank as he said but it isn't the right style at all
The guy that sold you the bike did not seem to honest but you knew that and got a fun project. I have been working on and ridden 😂 British bikes for a long time and I find it hilarious how your commentary crew all got the chance to Regurgitate the one piece of stereotypical British bike knowledge that they had.
Joe, you really need to start bringing that second ramp to put beside the bike so you can walk down the other ramp instead of jumping down and trying to balance everything lol
Hey bud. You have a oil line that goes behind the chain. And also remember you have leather seals in that engine. They now make modern seals for the older British bikes. I would replace all the seals and keep this one.
Also to get the parts for your bike. Contact Morrie's place in ringwood Illinois. Sorry don't have the number
This x100. This one is going to need a lot of work to turn it into a keeper, but is worthy IMO.
Do a complete teardown and take us through it, please! You will learn a lot, and gain some new useful skills along the way. I'll be watching them all fr!
So, here is a list of to-do's:
Disassemble, and do a complete frame inspection to find the cracks (you can be sure, some are there). Repair and repaint
Replace all and I mean all engine seals with the uprated modern seals
Add the sump cover plate with drain.
Replace the oil lines.
Replace that pretty fuel tank 😢 with an ethanol-friendly steel tank (~ $300 depending on condition, spend a little more and get one complete with the dual petcocks) and sell this tank - or at least, use a Kreem 3-stage tank liner.
Carb kit
Air cleaner!
Replace headstock bearings and races
Replace/service swing arm bushings
Chain is likely worn out, or close to worn out
Rebuild brakes, prob need to turn the drums and replace shoes
Rebuild forks
Prob needs new shocks
Swap out instruments for rebuilt Smiths
Find some sidecover reproductions
Replace that sad front fender, or at least rehang it
I know it's a long list, but it will be a very cool ride when you are done, and you will develop a real relationship with this scooter. Worth it!
What I heard from a pal, is you had to get off after 90 miles or so & Tighten everything up.....
They do vibrate a lot, but not that bad.
You have a real good buy there - The Royal Star was the more mellow machine - very tractable with about 90mph top whack - sounds really sweet
It's not leaking it's just marking its spot. One thing about old bikes like BSA or Harley you never needed to oil your leathers the bikes ahead of you when you rode in a pack would oil your leathers for you.
HAHA! That had me laughin'!
Better gaskets and a torque wrench simple stuff
Gotta love the sound of a British twin. You’re going to need a set of Whitworth wrenches and sockets if you want to do even basic maintenance….
I love watching Joe, never miss an episode, but man, I really hate when the adjustable wrench comes out, lol.
And the claw hammer @@120man
Wow! You can come up with the most interesting bikes! To hear the owner say "it only needs gas", im curious to see if it has a piston and rod in the crank case or if there is a brick and a hamster inside 😂. Thanks for the content sir! You help me get through my boring work days while teaching me a ton! Appreciate you.
The fiberglass tank will make a good wall hanger, modern gas turns them into gel. Also, pick up a new sump plate with a drain, makes it easy to clear a wetsump after sitting for a few weeks.
You could use non-ethanol gas.
The seller knew more about the bike than he told you.
Yeah, that was one of the most obvious exercises in dodging the questions that I've ever seen.
A proper gentleman does not motor about after dark...Lucas Electric..
No smoke or anything, what a nice ride and sounds awesome too.
Wet sumping?..These old brits had a tendancy to do that if left for a while.Could be reason for oil leaking on start up.
Limeys are coming out of the woodwork sounds like you are getting plenty of free knowledge
"Amal" is short for "Amalgamated Carburettors."
Common British brand.
Back in the day, we referred to them an ANALS haha
I always thought it stood for Amalgamated Aluminium.
There's nothing better than the sound of a British bike! Just be glad that one isn't set up like my old Norton 600 Nomad, with the Lucas Competition Magneto located DIRECTLY underneath those leaky Amals. That mag looks like a laser light show in the dark, and way more than once I've had to put the fire out under the seat, getting it started. Once it starts, no leaks. As someone else pointed out, if a Brit bike ain't leaking oil?? It's out.
BTW, my Norton is a 58 🙂
Definitely the wrong tank on this bike
2:41 _Timing is everything_ means the _time_ you think you got it fixed, it's something else. 🤣😂
Clutch plates are most likely stuck put in gear pull clutch in and rock back and forth hopefully they free up. Some hardware is witworth if you’re having trouble finding something to fit.
The best way to unstick a clutch without tearing it all the way down is get it going get it in gear while you're running with it and just write it with the clutch in and it'll come undone
Of course it leaks oil it’s British 🇬🇧 nice find good price 🍀🇬🇧👍
The tank, or at least the decal stickers are from a BSA 441 Victor Special, also a one cylinder thumper. I guess you have a frankincycle on your hands. All in all should be a fun project, get used to shifter and brake on opposite sides. Its a bit of a learning curve, I jammed on the back brake trying to down shift a few times.
Вот бы советский Иж Юпитер 4 на ремонт к вам привезти 😁
Joe as many bikes as you repair is there a reason you don't have a lift? Do you not like them or do you just love your flooring so much you want to put your face on it ? Please invest in your channel , invest in your content , invest in your future, please find a sponsor and get a lift
Cool bike, you’ll have to rig up a seat for Vinnie!
The only carburetor worse than a British Carb is an Italian "AD" Carb (adjust daily)....lol
British engineers designed everything to leak oil..............it's normal.....roflmao!
That guy is a bad used car sales man 4:03 lol
id be skepitical after that conversation..
Oh ya lol Bill Paxton True lies
BSA: Standing for Birmingham Small Arms Company Ltd, BSA was founded in 1861, for the production of firearms. The brand’s motorcycle division was set up in 1903, and the first motorcycle followed in 1910.
My father owned a BSA pistol.
Tickle the carb before attempting to start.
You can tell it is a genuine Brit by the oil leaks - confirmed. The seller seemed a little vague about certain aspects of the Bike, at least it is running.
Great find. Get a parts book and shop manual right away. You need to run A HIGH ZINC CONTENT OIL in these bikes. I use Castrol GTX 20W50 High Zinc in my Vintage Triumph. Same as your transmission. These bikes use bronze bushings throughout the engine and gearbox. Don't use GL5 gearbox oil. You appeared to have put the wrong gearbox oil in it. Drain it and put the proper lubricants in. Failure to use the proper oil will cause rapid wear on those bushings. Also avoid the use of silicone. I use gaskets with non silicone type sealants. Wellbond is one good option. Nice bike! The 500 twins are nice bikes. The 650's have more power and speed, but they vibrate a little more. If you have any questions ask away. I have been into British bikes for 39 years now.
Great video cool old BSA , we had a BSA TNT in the garage when I was a kid that was back in 1980 I was twelve 😂 wow I'm as old as the bike you bought time flies when you're having fun keep up the good work, awesome Chanel, it's my favorite.👍
You have to change those gauges.
Nice, a road bike makes a pleasant change from the sod busters and it's a classic - sounds great!
The leaking is apparently a feature to let you know you still have oil.
BSA or Birmingham Small Arms was founded in 1861, famous for military & sporting firearms, munitions, air rifles, bicyles, cars, buses and other industrial manufacturing. Started making motorcycles from 1910.
Company closed down in 1972 and now making a comeback.
the bicycles were shaft drive.
When they stop leaking, they're out of oil.
As a shovel head owner I second this lol.
Late sixties BSAs, best looking bikes ever made.
Well, at least among the best-looking. All the Brit parallel twin makers had great-looking models. I especially like the looks of a BSA Gold Star 500cc single - but admit that might be a little earlier than "the late 60s" category.
you need points file, contact cleaner for cleaning the points and then impact screwdriver for rusty stuck screws
Why dont you have it up on the center stand?
Son't think those bars are original either.
So Joe, your Brit bike likely has a Lucas electrical system. Do you know why the Brits like warm beer? Because Lucas makes refrigerators too.
Lucas, Prince of Darkness 😄
Nonsense.
I hope you have your Whitworths!!
BSA & Triumph are two great Motorcycle.
A cave man working on the Space Shuttle
Cave man make bike run, snarky millennial commenter can go kick rocks.
It doesn’t need a battery to run . The front fender has been cut in the front
What a wonderful machine! I was away fighting a war when this bike was first sold; wish I could have been the one buying it!
What a cool bike i think these are gear driven not timing chain now you need a norton 😮
Personally would have passed on that for 2k, but at least you get a good video on it hehe. Big up!
Having been a factory trained BSA/Triumph mechanic in my younger years, a couple of things. had you used the tickler until it made a mess and it probably would have started on the first few kicks.
That is an awesome motorcycle, once you fix the major leak it will still leak, but that is part of it's personality. You can use Japanese made gaskets and things get much better. BUT just for info, when we walked into the factory classroom, the first thing the instructor said "if you ever get a Triumph or BSA that doesn't leak...send it back and we will fix it".
Seal up the tank with Caswell tank sealer and all will be good.
Also the petcocks, one is a reserve (has a tube) and the other is main (no tube).
Reserve side would be lower , or no..?
@@billb7583 Yep, the tube side is the main, which makes the bike run out and THEN you switch on the no tube side for reserve which lets the last bit of gas get used.
Of course you have to drop at least one to inspect for the tube, and when still new to you probably should drop both just so you know what you have. Anything goes on old bikes.
It only has 1 fuel leak so guess that means it will burn to ground in 10 min as oppose to 5min.
I had a BSA C15 250 - I also wish that I’d still got it. But, we’re all wise in hindsight. It was one of the last ones made so would be worth good money now. Good to see an old UK bike brought back to life.
eBay UK is the answer, those dudes have the goods
Yes we do 😅
i had heard they were hard on oil and not a lot of cooling... most guys ran 20w50 synthetic and changed it often ... motor is certainly tight ...Amal carb was a trip.
I confess to having a mild case of OCD which causes me to hope you do a thorough cleaning of your shop floor at some point. Would look much better and more professional. Otherwise I love your channel and look forward to each new video.
yeah I plan to pour epoxy soon. I don't like the tile. Hard to keep clean.
2V, that side bolt on the carb looks like it needs a copper washer. That is a very sweet running smoke free engine so so far very good unit! I think you lucked out on this one! Congrats!
2K was a fair price, it`s worth twice that, They aren`t making anymore `68 BSAs of any model.
Great job. Well done lad.
I find it therapeutic seeing these bikes cough up their lungs and spring back into life!
I grew up with biker parents and have had several projects myself over the years.
The joy never leaves your soul!
Great channel. Long time sub.
This is so cool for you to be working on a good old British bike. Now you know what we have to put up with. From the UK 🇬🇧 best wishes
You got lucky with the engine condition, doesn't even smoke.
Is that carb slide cutaway facing the correct way round?
4:31 Your voice projects no confidence or assertiveness. It's literally trembling. No way to negotiate.
This is an A50, which I think makes it a 500cc - the correct petcocks are a push/pull design with a knurled knob you push in to shut off the gas and pull out to open them. And yes, Amals pretty much always leak. I believe the Anglophiles will curse me, but there is a conversion you can do to replace the Amal with a Mikuni...so you can live a leak free life. A really fun bike to ride - they handle really well and sound SO great.
Amal carbs dont always leak to my knowledge, they can be temperamental but if you have the correct gaskets they tend not to leak
Im from the uk and could say you got it at a bargain price. On trade only last week one was up for £4200. Non runner.
I had a BSA 650 in high school in the mid '70s. The electrics are unbelievably crappy but the torque was pretty sweet.
Really enjoyable video. You have me flashing back to my 1967 Triumph T100C. These British bikes run great as long as you keep them tuned up, which needs to be done very frequently. I predict you will love the ride and handling.
A50 ROYAL STAR 1958 USA & home UK 499CC CARB SPEC R26/7 CARB SIZE 26MM MODEL 376 100 MAIN NEEDLE JET 622/122-106 NEEDLE POSITION 2 GASKET PACK 622/208 REPAIR KIT RKC/561 LET ME KNOW IF YOU WANT AMAL MANUL FOR ALL MAKES & MODELS INCLUDING SPARE PARTS LIST IF STILL AVAILABLE CHEERS BRIAN
Flat head screws are THE WORST, RIGHT?!?!?! MY WHOLE LIFE i have never understood why anyone would use a flat head screw on anything hahaha and i worked on fighter jets most my life, and most the outer panels are held on by high-torque screws. They are worse than flat heads!
do you have any problems😀😵💫😵💫 with it being right hand drive from the uk 😵💫🤪
Bsa stands for birmingham small arms ,they originaly a gun maker
In the monobloc carb float chamber, the little brass spacer usually goes in after the float, yours was in first. Its usually the first thing to come out and then the float, and that positions the float below the needle.
That may be different for that model ? But i doubt it. Is that an A50 or A65 thunderbolt ?
A 68 thunderbolt would usually have a mk2 concentric carb.
If it's been standing, then the bob weights, behind the points, may be sticky. But you likely helped that when you soaked it in wd40.
Look forward to more vids, i am working on a 67 thunderbolt.