The weather was cool here today and, as I was off, I chose to take advantage of this fact and spend some time working away on my beloved VTR so I will be able to ride as soon as it warms up

I painted my slip-ons flat black (with exhaust paint) and re-packed them (should be good for a while now). I also removed everything to do with the PAIR system (and plugged all lines, including vacuum). I then worked a bit at smoothing out the cutting out I had done earlier on the intake snorkel. Previous to that, I had removed the mounting brackets for the Renntec sportrack that I am selling, as well as the hugger. Feeling ambitious and full of momentum, I tried to install the 5 row oil cooler I picked on on eBay but that turned into a bit of a nightmare (a 3+ hour nightmare) so I put the stock one back on (and will likely stick with it). I replaced my front turn signals with flush-mounts, sure cleans up the front

So my to-do list is nearing an end as I only have to paint and install the (alloy) chainguard I ordered, and replace the rear spring with the progressive Hyperpro unit I picked up. I am also in the process of installing a Vista-Cruise (although I had to do some modding, will try to install again tomorrow). I may resume working on the airbox but I have found that Honda didn't leave very much room down there. OH well, if it stays cold long enough, lol

Looking forward to taking it out

cheers

 

Good work, you seem very concerned with details, witch is good. You can probably braze the fittings for the cooler if it's too much of a hassle, stainless pipe, Ar soldering maybe, I always come up with some solution to make these things work, but relying only with fittings make this very difficult, specially when the room is restricted, first thing you know big bump and oil is pouring out.
I can't wait for my garage to be done, it's the first step for me before I really start modding the ol VTR.
And I'm sooo tired to see this damn snow, hope it's the crow's storm and be done for good.

 

What was the problem with the oil cooler?

 

The problem was that although the fittings are the same as the VTR's (it is an OEM Honda unit from a EX 400 ATV), but one is angled as opposed to being straight (when seen from front, the left side line entrance is angled at about 30 degrees). Try as I might I couldn't get the line to bend that much (and God knows I tried). I may take it to a welding shop, get them to cut the fitting off, and re-braze it on straight (can this be done?). I was disappointed but may re-try if I can have the above done.

ON another note, I just finished installing the Vista-Cruise (slight modding needed but it no longer hits tank at right full-lock and works like a charm). Woohoo, I now have cruise control (will be nice on those long trips I like to take).

I am looking forward to riding the bike again with the PAIR system off. I did some research and reading (here, and on MicaPeak) and saw that many noted cooler running after its removal. Given that the pipe will run cooler (no exhaust "afterburner" effect), and its close proximity to the oil pan, it stands to reason it should reduce the heat being radiated to the sump thereby reducing oil, hence engine, temperature. I never had any problems with popping on deceleration but saw some benefit in reducing the pipe temp (for reason listed above, as well as to increase the longevity of the pipe, especially seeing as mine is heat-wrapped).

I will get the rear spring installed by a buddy who runs a suspension shop sometime in the Spring when the weather warms up (he lives about 90 minutes away).

cheers

 

I reckon you should be able to change the cooler fitting. A radiator shop, especially if you have one that specialises in ally coolers should be able to do it.

I have a NEP throttle lock, and it is really handy, pardon the pun. You will love it!

My next job is the Renntec luggage. Once I have seen your pics, if it looks ok I will get a rack and matching bag. Then I am going to do some riding for a while before I start tinkering again. I spent two years working on the bike, so I need a break before starting on those carbs again!

 

HI Shayne,

sorry for the delay with the pics but I will do it shortly.

One other thing I forgot was the shifter mod I did. After having moved the shifter arm (one on tranny shaft) by one spline as recommended elsewhere (and felt an improvement I must say), I had a look and noted that an additional spline, if possible, would be even better as it would result in the arm working through a right angle while shifting (for shortest possible throw). LO and behold, it works. AS I had stated earlier, I then made some thin shims out of an aluminium beer can to remove the play in the lever pivot (would say I got rid of about 80% of it). Although it's been too cold since to test ride it, it definitely feels better just sitting on the stand.

I must say I get a real kick out of improvising inexpensive and creative fixes to things (like the air intake experiments). For very little money and time, I have managed to address quite a few little glaring flaws in the VTR, helping to make it a much more refined package. Now, if it would only get warm out so I could ride it.....

 

Thanks Micky.

I have done the pivot shaft as well (I re-bushed it to a better tolerance), and it is better for sure. Did you end up putting in those heim joints?