The SL really wouldn’t start, smelt like it was flooding and had some back firing. Put brand new NGK plugs in this afternoon and it fired instantly and after it warmed a little it ticked over nicely. However, I can’t decide if it’s smoking like it’s oil smoke other maybe because it was flooded? Saw some oil come out of the exhaust joint just before the silencers. Really hope I haven’t bought a dud! I don’t remember it smoking when I went to view it Any ideas?
as above, plus what were old spark plugs like? Were they oily and have you been leaving it ticking over more than you've been riding it? Has it got the standard carbs on it? finally, is oil level about the same or has it gone up/down?
Mine did the same white smoke from the exhaust and really bad running to the point where I was seriously considering throwing it in the canal. Took it to a good mechanic who likes both a challenge and older carburettor fed bikes and hey presto, good as new. Don’t give up.
Are you sure it was oil and not just carbon coloured moisture? Ime if it's burning oil you would see blue smoke as you blip the throttle. Rings as the revs rise and guides as the revs fall.
The bike hasn’t been ridden for 3-4 years, last MOT was 21. Plugs weren’t oiled up I haven’t ridden it only had it running in the back garden Maybe it needs to be used and see what it like then?
if you are starting up in this recent cold patch, and it also hasn't been ridden (not idled) much recently then it will take a good half hour ride or more to "burn off" moisture before exhaust fumes clear.
Just need to wipe a little off with a finger and move it between finger & thumb. You'll soon be able to tell. As Chris mentioned, it has been cold & damp recently so you really need to give him a good 10 mile biff before coming to any conclusions.
The valve guides were a weak point in these motors, mine were shot at 6000kms, though I never bothered to change them. (Recorded in the Baines paperwork). Also by now (in age terms) the valve seals will need doing I would have thought, the new seals are a better material than original too.
