81 XS 1100 Start

[BrettS]

No I don't have the vacuum gauges yet. Am I wrong thinking that is what the carbtune kit is.
Thought it might be a good idea to get the colortune in a package deal
http://www.ekmpowershop20.com/ekmps/shops/carbtune/carbtune-pro-4-column-colortune-single-plug-and-other-variations-25-p.asp

Then again I could probably get away with just a twin set
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vacuum-Carburetor-Synchronizer-carb-sync-Gauge-2-cylinder-bike-Honda-CB-CL-350-/290751880236?pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&hash=item43b2299c2c&vxp=mtr
or 4 set
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vacuum-Carburetor-Synchronizer-carb-sync-Gauge-Honda-GS-CB-KZ-550-650-750-850-/110874587472?pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&hash=item19d0a3f150&vxp=mtr

[Eveready1100]

I wouldn't stress too much about the non-adjustable timing plate. So long as your timing light shows that it's near enough the mark (with the vacuum advance line disconnected) you will be ok for the initial  get-it-running phase of proceedings. You can later swap it for an adjustable backing plate to allow more flexibility and fine tuning. Have you got access to a set of vacuum gauges for balancing the carbs? This is initially the most important kit of kit, cos if they're out, you will have a hard time trying to get it to run anything like smoothly. The colourtune kit is a great setup for fine tuning the idle mixtures, but at the moment, I'd concentrate more on just getting it running reliably.

[BrettS]

Thanks Jeff I might have to wait until I stock up on appropriate tools. I did a pre sync of the carbies but I reckon it is running worse so I think I have to invest in a carbtune kit might as well get the colour tune while I am at it.
A mate might have something but not sure yet. Maybe a cheap timing light as well.

Thanks Scarfly I have already got the download of the Australian model. I printed it out to about chapter 7 by the time I ran out of ink. It might hav ebeen cheaper to just buy the manual. Ooops.

 

[SCARFEY]

http://www.tradebit.com/filedetail.php/9347183-yamaha-xs1100-factory-owners-repair-manual-1978-1982

Spend the $20 bucks its worth it.

I got my FJR, NX650  and Subaru Outback on this site all good

[excess.11]

On the first page there is a reference to "Valve Clearances".
I t s important that the intake valve clearances are correct for your particular motor as they talk about a reduction in clearance from other models to alleviate running noise.
Previous inexperienced people attempting to tune the motor....may have set these incorrectly..........possibly another reason for the erratic running.
Plug colors will be an indicator as well.

[excess.11]

[excess.11]

Here s a link to an online USA specd service manual......it takes a little while to download to view.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/37531631/Yamaha-XS1100-Service-Manual

Pages 248 and 249 refer to your situation regarding the non adjustable timing plate.

Or this link from ringler.............to download manuals.............some work some don t.

http://www.ringler.us/family/mybike.html

[BrettS]

Aww Gaud I was afraid this was something different. It is interesting but also a little scary.
I m thinking the timing on your bike is taken care of automatically at the TCI unit.
I was starting to think that as well but I also thought it was a normal thing.
I will check the TCI unit tomorrow. Ah what is that LOL I am sure I can work it out 

[excess.11]

Seat is off an RH model........aussie stock.

[Jonesy]

Isnt there supposed to be some slots where the 11 & 5 oclock screws are? Looks like a yank job where nearly all the tuning adjustment have been fixed to stop people meddling with the emissions. Also explains the yank style seat and side covers

[excess.11]

Hook your timing light up to #1 spark plug lead......taking care to have the clip orientated to the spark plug as per the arrow on the clip.
Start the bike and check the strobe aligns with the "F" mark.
What ever you do.........do not loosen the pointer screw.

[BrettS]

Oh god I hope this is not something strange again but mine doesn't have the adjustment like in the video??

[excess.11]

Can you take a pic so we can see what your looking at?

[BrettS]

Hey Guys I have searched around a fair bit watched a you tube video but I can't work out how to adjust the timing.
Mine doesn't seem to have the adjustment like the video. Is this something to do with later models? How do I adjust the ignition timing?.
Thanks Brett
Oops this is the video I was talking about http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-CgQ3Uf_7WU&feature=endscreen

[BrettS]

Food for thought Jeff, I have seen that done. I am thinking there must be a way to have both. Maybe I can make up a little extension that can be added when tuning.