Whilst I wait for the Cerakoted parts to return, I need to check the clearance for the aluminium radiator pipe in between the frame and engine, as if it clears with the frame in situ, then I can fit the frame now and the pipe at a later date when it is back from the paint shop, which will allow me to make much more progress over the next few days. Not looking hopeful if I am honest. The alternative would be Wednesday at the earliest to refit the frame, which is very frustrating since I have a few days off work
So it looks as though the aforementioned clearance is good, which means I can fit the front frame. Hallelujah! First job was to sort out the all main wiring branches which need routeing a specific way around or under the frame, before securing it to the engine using some very special bolts (more on these later). Next I had to remove the frame brace to be able to access and connect up the front coil packs to the loom, then clip them to their dedicated mounts under the airbox. This brace was only introduced on later models, incorporating the cut-outs in the main frame. Here are the coil packs connected to the loom. After this I could attach the cyclone pipes to the engine and secure the 'Norma' clamps in place Re-fitted the front frame cross brace. Torqued to 23Nm as per spec. Retaining nuts are accessed through the frame cutouts. As you can see (with it fitted) it is difficult, to say the least, to access the wiring and connectors. In fact the service manual requires it to be removed when doing any work on the front cylinder head, as you can't remove the coil packs with it in place. I am hoping to get the forks back on in the next few days and once the linkage bolts arrive from TGP MotoRacing, I should be able to dispense with the engine stand. Lots more work to do with all the various wiring branches, so plenty of jobs to keep me busy
More from MotoCorse. Here's one of the four front frame plugs. These comprise of the main frame bolt, cap and allen retaining bolt. I have not tightened everything up yet so I will show you them in situ later.
