I bought a shiny looking NC30 described as being in good working order that I thought would be nice to run around on during the summer, however before I could do that, I needed to;
Fix the indicator wiring
Replace the temp sensor
Fit a thermostat
Fit a new Tacho
Install the correct jets
Replace one of the side light bulbs
Install a new brake light switch
Change the front tyre
Install a new set of plugs
Replace the rectifier
Install a new coil
Replace the worn rear disc
Replace the rear caliper seals
Replace the bodged/broken chain adjuster hub

Finally got it MOT'd on saturday, and then the thermostat failed and the front head and sump is leaking oil
These four bangers are a PITA........just thought I'd get it off my chest

Just as well you didnt buy one needing a bit of work

ebay by chance ?
around a grand ?

thats pretty typical of the average bike out there for that sort of money and from ebay.
buy one from someone on here who at least tried to care for it and keep on top of maintenance.
the head gasket leaking is more of a worry than the rest IMO

That sir would be your classic case of old 400 that's been in the UK too long.

There owned by a lot of young riders who see them as a cheap stepping stone, and while it isn't always young riders these are most likely to have less cash and not maintain and service the big properly.

It's then sold on when they get a bigger bike or it's needing a major over-haul.

You can easly spend a grand or more on some of these old bikes if you want to do them up properly (i.e. replace all the bearings, valve clearances, valve stem seals, tyres, chain and sprockets and charging system.

Head leaking is a bit worrying but more often than not it's the rocker-box (top cover) as it's sealed with a big rubber o-ring type thing that might be dis-lodged or broken, an easy fix!

Just be glad there wasn't a lot more wrong with it.

think I'll get the engine out and remove the cylinders, check the rings, do the valve seals, check the head for flatness and re-install. I assume skimming a gear driven cam head is a little tricky (just in case it needs it)

I have always assumed for every fault I find when inspecting a bike that there is at least 1 more to be found later on.

The cam cover seal leaks more often than the heads.

arsey30 wrote:I have always assumed for every fault I find when inspecting a bike that there is at least 1 more to be found later on.

Which gives new meaning to our smilie.

arsey30 wrote:The cam cover seal leaks more often than the heads.

= The cam cover AND the main gasket are leaking

Sounds like it's not your first BBQ. Personally, I'm glad I didn't have to do anything more to the engine than shim the valves and adjust the carbs. As for the rest, yes to everything, plus a complete overhaul of the front brakes. And replace all the bearings. And. And... But secretly, it's why we love these bikes, isn't it?

That's why I started with something I knew needed loads of work - and was cheap.

My list of jobs is much much longer though - and plenty of bits to buy!