garyw

I have a rattle which seems to emanate from near the airbox, particularly at higher rpm. I've replaced the cam chain tensioner with the latest version, but that didn't resolve the problem. What else might be the likely cause?

I've successfully bled my brake lines to remove air several times, each time restoring the proper lever and pedal feel. However, air keeps reentering. I read in a magazine that older blackbirds have o-rings in the master cylinder that dry out, causing this to happen, particularly if the bike isn't ridden much. Sad to say, I haven't been riding much, and my bike is a 1999. I've tightened all the banjo's and fittings to no avail. (1) Would you agree regarding this likely diagnosis? (2) Is it possible to only replace the o-rings and not rebuild the entire master cylinder? (3) Do you know of a source of appropriate parts? Thanks in advance. -Gary.

A neighbor backed into my '99 bbird, and broke the taillight lens cover and cracked the rear cowling just above the taillight. Does anyone have these used parts that they'd be interested in selling to me? Thank you, -Gary.

I answered my own question, I think. The narrower portion goes between the frame and the oil cooler, with the cutouts straddling the oil cooler mounts. The wider portion descends to a point just above the fan motor, in front of the valve cover. There isn't any contact with the motor this way. Cheers, -Gary.

How is the heat shield, located near the valve cover, oriented? I can't find a good photo in the service manual. It is more or less trapezoidally shaped with 2 cutouts and a riveted rubber flap. I think I have it figured out, but I'm not sure. The rubber flap goes near the wiring loom and the lower wider portion goes between the fan and engine? This puts the plastic right against the engine, so I'm not confident about that. Thanks, -Gary.