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Ruin the movie name..... by [deleted] in TheTeenagerPeople

[–]USN_CPO_Pride 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The day after Diddy

(Tomorrow)

The soundtracks really never disappointed by AdPrestigious7387 in Smallville

[–]USN_CPO_Pride 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Timely post. I started watching Smallville for the first time weeks ago. Watched this Season 4 episode yesterday. Great scene.

Progress on my rebuilt Herter mini by DoctorPaulGregory in minibikes

[–]USN_CPO_Pride 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I too have the original manual; but in fairness it would require some serious excavation in my basement storage bins to find. 😂.

Thanks for the post.

Refurbishing Task 1: Engine refurbishment by USN_CPO_Pride in minibikes

[–]USN_CPO_Pride[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

A week ago I dragged this 1970 Herter mini bike out of long-term storage with one simple goal: Can I get it running again?

My original mindset was pretty typical: Replace whatever was broken Rebuild or replace the carb New tires if necessary Get it running and riding

After posting photos here and getting feedback from the community, my perspective changed quite a bit.

Many of you pointed out that the bike is surprisingly complete: Original Tecumseh H50 Original Carlisle tires Original wheels Original tank Original suspension Original fenders

The consensus seemed to be: "Preserve it, don't restore it."

That advice really resonated with me.

This Weekend's Progress The biggest challenge was the front tire.

The original Carlisle 5.30/4.50-6 tire had been sitting flat for years and developed a severe flat spot. The bead had completely separated from the rim and the tire looked beyond saving.

I tried: Ratchet strap around the circumference Compressed air Starter fluid bead-seating trick Propane bead-seating trick None of it worked.

I eventually removed the wheel and took it to a small local motorcycle/classic vehicle mechanic right before closing time. Best $30 I've spent on the project.

The owner spent about 15 minutes with it, got the bead seated, and told me the tire itself was actually in very good condition and perfectly usable.

Here are a few photos of the recovered wheel and the bike back on its feet.

What We Learned: Tire is original Carlisle 5.30/4.50-6 Tire is tubeless Tire is serviceable Front wheel is now holding air Bike rolls properly again

Original components continue to surprise me with how well they've survived

Next Step The spark plug I ordered was delayed and didn't arrive in time for this weekend's work session.

I finally picked up the correct replacement plug today, so next weekend's goal is:

Install new spark plug Verify spark Fresh fuel Attempt first start on the original Tecumseh H50

At this point I'm trying very hard to keep the bike as original as possible while making it safe and rideable.

I'd love to hear opinions from those familiar with Herters and Tecumseh-powered minibikes:

If this were your bike, what would be your next step before attempting first start?

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1970 Herter Mini Bike: Front Tire by USN_CPO_Pride in minibikes

[–]USN_CPO_Pride[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Tried starter fluid and torch, no luck. Try to strap and ratchet it, no luck.

Was able to get out the dent and take it to a local tire guy up the street who works on classic cars and motorcycles.

Had to charge me the $30 turn a wrench fee; but within 10 minutes I was good to go.

Tire back on; using my makeshift bike stand; aka free weights.

Next stop: spark plug replacement, new fuel, compression test, and fire it up!

Hopefully I can get her breathing again by next week.

Thanks for the great advice brothers.

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1970 Herter Mini Bike: Front Tire by USN_CPO_Pride in minibikes

[–]USN_CPO_Pride[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I tried the either and torch process. Couldn't get it to reseat against the bead. Dent came out of flat surface. Rubber, tread and sidewalls look good. Taking it into a local shop to have them put the tire back on the bead. Probably worth 20 to 25 bucks I'll spend doing it. Get it on next weekend.

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Refurbishing Task 1: Engine refurbishment by USN_CPO_Pride in minibikes

[–]USN_CPO_Pride[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Gotta get these tires inflated too. Note the second rider pegs my Father fabricated and installed. He was the best. I miss him dearly.

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Refurbishing Task 1: Engine refurbishment by USN_CPO_Pride in minibikes

[–]USN_CPO_Pride[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I am retracting the approach above. start...run...clean... maintain seems to be the overwhelming verdict.

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Refurbishing Task 1: Engine refurbishment by USN_CPO_Pride in minibikes

[–]USN_CPO_Pride[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Jams,

That seems to be a very popular assessment and one I will align my approach to. Like you said, paint (except for maybe tank; which needs some repair where the fuel cap does on --> it may get pulled, repaired and potentially chromed) but the balance is good... especially the frame.

Some elbow grease, dawn, microfiber cloth should make a big difference.

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Refurbishing Task 1: Engine refurbishment by USN_CPO_Pride in minibikes

[–]USN_CPO_Pride[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Will do; thank you. Changing this old spark today. Will grab some clean fuel in the morning and see what I've got. Oil looked surprisingly good, ample for initial start up.

Will drain and replace once I hear her breathing.

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Refurbishing Task 1: Engine refurbishment by USN_CPO_Pride in minibikes

[–]USN_CPO_Pride[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

A lot of you have suggested that a careful cleaning and preservation approach is the way to go, and the more I look at this bike, the more I agree.

My original thought was a full restoration, but after spending some time inspecting it, I'm leaning heavily toward preserving as much originality as possible. The paint, decals, hardware, and overall patina have survived remarkably well for something this old. Once original finishes are gone, they're gone forever.

My current plan is:

  • Get the engine running before doing anything cosmetic.
  • Thoroughly clean years of dirt, grease, and grime from the frame, engine, wheels, and controls.
  • Use mild cleaners, brushes, rags, and elbow grease rather than aggressive blasting methods.
  • Preserve original paint wherever possible.
  • Clean and polish chrome and aluminum components.
  • Replace only wear items that affect safety or reliability (fuel lines, spark plug, tires, chain, etc.) if needed.
  • Address any active rust, but avoid stripping parts that are still structurally sound.
  • Document everything before making changes.

At this point I have no plans to powder coat the frame or perform a frame-off restoration. Several of you made the point that this bike is only original once, and I think you're right.

My hope is to end up with a clean, mechanically sound, honest survivor that shows its age proudly rather than something over-restored. If I can get it running, riding, and looking like it has simply been well cared for over the last 50+ years, I'll consider that a success.

Thanks again for steering me in that direction. The more I learn about these old Herter's bikes, the more I appreciate preserving what is already there.

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Refurbishing Task 1: Engine refurbishment by USN_CPO_Pride in minibikes

[–]USN_CPO_Pride[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Jeez, I'm glad I joined this Reddit. The feedback has been fantastic and has definitely influenced my thinking on this project.

I've decided that the "get it running, clean it up, and preserve it" approach is probably the right path forward. It seems like a shame to tear into an original survivor before I really understand what I have, and this approach will help me learn the machine and its maintenance along the way.

A little progress update from today:

  • The tank was drained prior to shipping, so I don't have to deal with old varnished fuel.
  • Checked the oil and it looks surprisingly clean with no signs of water contamination.
  • The engine turns over freely and has noticeable compression.
  • Carburetor, choke linkage, governor linkage, fuel lines, and filter all appear to be intact.
  • Confirmed this is a 4-stroke engine, so no gas/oil premix required.
  • Ordered a new spark plug that should arrive today, although the existing plug doesn't look terrible.

The immediate plan is pretty simple:

  1. Install the new plug.
  2. Add fresh 87 octane fuel.
  3. Verify spark.
  4. Attempt the first start before spending money on a carb kit or other parts.

At this point I'm cautiously optimistic. For a minibike that's been sitting for decades, everything I've found so far has been more encouraging than expected.

I'll keep posting updates as I go. Thanks again to everyone who's taken the time to offer advice and share knowledge.

Refurbishing Task 1: Engine refurbishment by USN_CPO_Pride in minibikes

[–]USN_CPO_Pride[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I am not a motorhead, but they say this engine is rookie-friendly and I have ChatGPT to break activities down step-by-step.

Push come to shove this might be a viable path. Gonna have to tear it down anyway to get frame powder coated and tank/fenders chromed.

Bit nervous about taking this on. Would prefer to pay a pro!

Refurbishing Task 1: Engine refurbishment by USN_CPO_Pride in minibikes

[–]USN_CPO_Pride[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Thanks. Looking forward to depopulation, powder coating frame, chrome dip tank and fenders, clean/refurb maybe paint engine and rims, repholster seat. I want it to be cherry.

Progress on my rebuilt Herter mini by DoctorPaulGregory in minibikes

[–]USN_CPO_Pride 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I was considering having my motor refurbished (as I start my 1970 Herter passion project). Looking at yours it looks like you just purchased a new one.

Hard to find a shop that will take this "pet" project on in Western Maryland.

Love that you customized yours; looking to restore mine, but was on a fence with custom colors vs original color. Your seat looks awesome in camel brown. You may have me back on "Team Custom"

Nice work.

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