Looking to but a 1982 V45 Magna with 6,000 original miles. But have a few questions?

Question

I know the owner of this bike and it has not been started in 4 years. It was running the last time he drove it. He never drained any of the fluids. What could be the issues I maybe facing? It has new tires will those be good? What about the engine and gaskets? It is in great shape and only want $250 for it......Help....................

Answer 1

You've got your work cut out for yourself.  

The entire fuel system will need to be flushed out.  

There may be corrosion in the tank that must be treated.  

If the tires were new 4 years ago, they need to be replaced now.  

Any rubber components will probably need to be replaced.  

The cables all need to be checked for corrosion and most likely replaced.  

The battery needs to be replaced as it will be completely sulfated by now.  

The wiring all needs to be inspected carefully and repaired or replaced as appropriate.  

If the engine and gearbox was not properly "pickled" before it was put in storage, there may well be internal corrosion or seizure that will dictate a rebuild.  

The brakes need to the thoroughly inspected.  Most likely all brake lines will need to be replaced as well as any pistons, cylinders and calipers as they probably have become corroded internally.

The driveshaft and final drive mechanism needs to be carefully inspected for serviceability and repaired as necessary.

It might be worth $250 if you can do all of this yourself but if you're going to have to pay someone to do it, it will wind up costing much more than simply finding a good running bike instead.

Answer 2

If it looks halfway decent (not a lot of rust) and it's only $250, I'd say grab it. I have an '83 and it's a great, reliable bike.

Answer 3

How long did not run? If for several years it is a risk , couple of years are not so bad. The biggest thing is cleaning the carbs. Those are some of the hardest to get out. .