1970 Yamaha R5 Restoration

[Graceshredder]

Hi Folks,
I'm new to the forum and thought I'd like to share my adventures with like-minded Yamaha enthusiasts. I recently picked up (free) a totally trashed 1970 Yamaha R5 350. I've always wanted to own one of these and jumped at the opportunity. I am a 30 years of experience (now retired) mechanic and really enjoy the challenge of the restoration. I've attached some "Before" photos and will keep updating the thread with progress pictures.

I hope you enjoy sharing this journey and will jump in with helpful hints and comments.

[Graceshredder]

I decided to consolidate all these threads into this one so it is easier to follow.


Well, the work has started in earnest. I'm ready to go to the paint shop and I'm ready to start rebuilding the engine . . . almost. The crank wouldn't rotate 360 degrees! It turned out that the lead weight in the counter balance part of the crank somehow came loose and moved into the little space where the rod rotates. After various consultations, I decided to drill a small hole through the crank and into the lead portion. I countersunk the hole and then put a flat-head screw in to hold the lead in place. I then welded the screw in so it would NEVER come loose. I filed it down so it's smooth and has the same clearance it had before. Cool. More updates coming . . .

[Graceshredder]

Seat repair and reupholstering . . . I think I'd rather get a napalm enema than do another one of those. If you do one yourself, throw away the little "bolt things" that hold the cool chrome strip around the base of the seat, or believe me, you're gonna wish you were dead. Go to the hardware store and purchase the correct size rivets and some push-nuts. MUCH easier!

I should have the engine totally back together in a day or so . . . more to follow.

[Graceshredder]

Well, the engine went back together very smoothly . . . until I got to the clutch. *Sigh* See below . . .
Then I decided to tackle the front forks. Talk about oil! The ground beneath the sands of the Middle East ain't got nothin' on these shocks. I felt like changing my name to Yabdul Sahib.

[Graceshredder]

The side covers came out very nice. I'll let the paint dry for several more days before I actually stick the decals on. I decided that the only way to continue from here was to have everything totally clean. I can't stand working on greasy, filthy parts . . . never could. Anyway, the bottom picture, although necessary, still makes my teeth sweat.

[Graceshredder]

This is the 'low point' of a rebuild. The excitement of tearing the bike down is over, and now the only part of the entire process that is truly "work" begins. Every single piece, every nut, bolt, washer . . . everything gets washed and/or wire buffed until it gleams. There is however, a certain sense of instant gratification as each part appears from out underneath all the dirt and grease to become a beautiful shiny part again. Yes, I discovered the gears in the speedometer have been stripped. And, yes, I did make up a few new words in my deliriously happy display immediately following the discovery. Oh well, there are ALWAYS alternatives. The rims are at the tire shop getting brand new tires and tubes put on. When I pick them up I'll replace all the bearings and seals.

[Graceshredder]

Well, the prep continues. I'm getting the painting and the wiring squared away. I installed all the Police equipment in the Sheriff's cars in the latter part of my career, so I really like wiring projects.

[Graceshredder]

Ha! I'm all done with the painting portion. All the myriad of little parts are all waiting to be installed. I have to do some work on the two wheels first . . . bearings and seals for both. Then a few days off for Thanksgiving . . . and THEN It will start going the other way. Back together. I'm excited!



Happy Thanksgiving to all of you!

[archeRD350]

Dos the R5 350 have as much torque as the RD350?

I ended up getting a wheelie bar for my RD350 and a mag tire for mine and drag race muscle cars with it. I would win!

Can't wait to see it fully assembled. post the pict as soon as you get it finished

[Graceshredder]

Originally Posted by archeRD350

Dos the R5 350 have as much torque as the RD350?

I ended up getting a wheelie bar for my RD350 and a mag tire for mine and drag race muscle cars with it. I would win!

Can't wait to see it fully assembled. post the pict as soon as you get it finished

ArcheRD350,
I really don't know about the torque comparisons between the two, but I have heard over and over again how hellishly fast these 350s are. I can't wait to get it all together and see, as I have never been on one before. I know my '72 Suzuki 250 Hustler (a 2-stroke street machine) has quicker acceleration that my '78 Kawasaki Kz400, a 4-stroker.