After over a week of rain in the Boston area, I was able to ride a little yesterday and today. (I know real riders would be out anyway, but I'm not that excited about riding in the wet, especially with a michelin T55 on the back!)
This was the first time out after replacing a broken sub-frame bolt (pain in the arse repair), changing the oil to Mobil1 (easy job even for a newbie.) Replacing about 6 various missing screws/bolts, etc. Added a hose to the battery overflow (was missing when I bought the bike) Replaced missing starter switch cover (another missing part when I bought it.) Added a nice new MSR basher plate from Fred (thanks again Fred) Lubed the chain and headed out for a ride.
Whew, that seems like enough for one afternoon. I'm pleased to report that the KLR feels good as new. Or at lease as good as it did when I took ownership.
Now on to my question of the day, I'm starting to see a good amount of smoke from the exhaust, especially on start up. I'm hoping that this is not a sign of something internal going wrong. My past experiences with engines is that when you start to see "blue" smoke from the exhaust. that is a sign of "bad rings" some oil blowing by the rings and getting burned in the compustion chamber. This would explain my having to add about a half quart of oil after some hard riding in PA 3 weeks ago. The Mobil 1 smokes less than when I first noticed it, but is still very obvious when I start the bike. Could just be something this morning, but it was pretty cloudy behind me for about 30 seconds while I was warming the bike.
Anyone have any thoughts on my now "smoky" KLR?
Take note I increased the font size to 12, to save everyones eyes including my own (even with my 17" monitor.)
Thanks in advance....
Rich
A12 "Beast"
or as my niece is calling it "Lil' Smoky"