Re: Finally Ready For Dream Build ... Need Engine Suggestions
pikled beats,
I have not made a thread for a build, Probably should. havent had much direct advice, Read my fair share. I will get the pics together here shortly. Lend me some advice on starting a thread for doing so if ya would.
Tell me (if you would) about your frame failures and any other major issues you had with your first build. This is my second time going through the bike, so im a little upset with myself over some current set ups, No frame gussets, yada yada yada. everything has been powdercoated and I have been trying to talk myself into fixing it, but just havent had the nerve. Im now looking to do some welding on the frame for placement of rear hydro set up and removal of random mounting tabs for stock stuff, cant even remember what they went to.
Definentally do though. I have been telling myself that I would put up some postings for a while now and never seem to do it. Let me know how to get it done. It will be nice to know someone else going through a quality build at the same time. Especially someone who has been there before.
Thanks much for your time
Hank
It took me awhile to decide I would document this build, truthfully it was so I had it because I really don't move at the speed most of these builds are going at. I would recommend it however as it becomes somewhat of an addiction when you feel your building something nice to show it off. When I planned on doing this build I had ideas that I hadn't seen done (though I could probably find em if I trolled all the forums) and wanted to get feedback etc.
You will hear some people on here say that gussets are not needed on a blaster frame (yes I have seen this posted numerous times). But even without going wider/lengthened. I have had a frame failure and seen more than three other blaster frame failures. I bent the sub rail of my first frame which was a 92 from jumping doubles, I also broke off the welded rear fender brace on the chain side. My buddy I ride with also tweeked the subframe rails at the rear of the frame. Regardless I sold that frame to someone on craigslist who had a catastrophic frame failure on his upper A-Arm mounts, he felt it would be easier to weld his subframe to mine as his had not only sheared the a-arm mount but tweaked the frame rail inward. The one suggestion I would give about gussets is cut your own. I had ordered a kit from TPR and although some fit well the majority did not, plus it is not the strongest steel. My welder who is a 20yr. vet and works as a welder for flowmaster, also agreed, hence why we recut the most important (the subframe) gussets out of 1/4 inch heat treated steel, 3/16 for the rest, as this is heavy (as in weight) steel. If you are going to weld to do a hydro setup I would definitely gusset as well. Which brings me to the next point.
I would weigh what it would cost or at least look for an 03-06 frame, it is a stronger frame with improvements over the former 17 years of blaster frames. You also would not have to modify for hydros which are a must. The rear mechanical brake SUCKS period. If this is not possible I would at least get an 03-06 carrier/axle. I have a stock one I am going to sell but they can also be picked up cheap on ebay. The reason for this is that you already have the right mounts on the carrier so only need to modify frame for master cylinder. This is just my opinion but I have found that costs can be cut down by selling your parts. Say you buy an 03-06 carrier for 20 bux on ebay turn around and sell yours for the same. This is how I have kept costs down collecting parts on mine. Even if it's only a little back on stock parts toward aftermarket it adds up.
I have justified being able to do this project as I have kept costs less than it would be to say go into a yamaha showroom and buy a new stock raptor 350.
I understand that most don't have the time and patience this requires, but I have learned through my first build that rushing things does not work in the long run. Although your blaster might be done, there will be things like you've already said, that will eat at you later. This was a big issue for me when deciding to powdercoat or paint. Waiting actually led me to find a way to powdercoat way cheaper than paint. My welder worked with a guy who is starting up a powdercoating business. He offered to do all my small stuff (everything but frame) for the cost of the powdercoat so he could get practice. I was concerned about the quality but that was premature as I went this morning to check progress and it was great. Total cost for the pile of parts in my former pics 45$. My frame sandblasted and powdercoated through a seperate business, 125$. I have seen some crazy prices quoted to people on here and can't believe it. As soon as my buddy gets fully up and running I will be helping him get customers through forums like this and can let you know.
Lastly, it's a lot of who you know, and not being afraid to ask for help. I have learned a lot of what not to do from these forums as well as good ideas I had not thought about, but for the most part I don't know people on these forums in real-life so I've hit the streets in my area talking to local welders, painters, powdercoaters etc. It's been time consuming but as you can see has paid off. When I add up and tell people what it cost to do this build, after being done, most on here are not going to believe it. My number one suggestion would be take your time, it has held true for me that waiting to do things the right way has paid off over rushing.
So, anyway, I will give any advice, although I am still learning as well and can only offer opinions....lol, just look at how wishy-washy I am about my engine, I know though that the bulb will flash soon enough and I'll know what to do. I truly feel however that those building the nicest blasters on here don't wanna share as I have asked them how they did this or that and do not get responses, maybe because I'm a newbie but whatever, newbies to the forum does not mean we can not build sweet blasters too ... as shown.
I am willing to answer anything, and am not stingy with how I've done things as pictured. Looking forward to seeing your build hank, but man that does suck that it's already pc'ed and now you have to weld.
About the thread, there is a great link to setting up pics on the second page of this forum that made it easy for me. Think about the thread name however I wish I could change mine but can not.
