BIKE ENGINE SWAPPED RELIANT FIRST START!!!!!! - Motorbike Engine Swap (PT.9)

Summary

This video documents the adventurous journey of restoring a unique ReliOn Rialto, transformed by integrating a Kawasaki Zex 6r motorcycle engine. The host describes the initial challenge of the engine not starting due to the starter motor not engaging with the flywheel. After consulting with the community and experts, they investigate various potential issues, from electrical connections to mechanical alignments. Through troubleshooting that involves adjusting the starter gear, checking fuel delivery, and ensuring proper wiring, the team finally succeeds in getting the engine to run. The excitement is palpable as they navigate through technical difficulties to a triumphant start, setting the stage for future modifications to get the vehicle driving.

Takeaways

• 👨‍🔧 He is fixing up a Kawasaki Ninja motorbike engine he bought
• 🚧 Had issues getting the engine started - starter motor not engaging flywheel
• 🔧 Took apart starter assembly to inspect - found starter drive gear misaligned
• ✅ Fixed misalignment and got engine cranking with starter
• ⛽ Had fuel delivery issues - fixed with new fuse and repositioning sensors
• ✅ Got engine started and idling smoothly
• 😀 Very happy to have solved multiple issues and gotten bike running
• 🚘 Still much work ahead - making prop shaft, brake lines, etc. to get driving
• ⏩ Will continue work in future videos to get bike fully operational
• 🤞🏍 Hopes to get bike doing wheelies but not fully street legal

Q & A

What kind of vehicle is the narrator working on?

The narrator is working on a ReliOn Rialto motorbike that they bought without knowing much about it.

What was the main issue they were trying to fix in the video?

The main issue was that the motorbike would not start when they tried to turn the key. The starter motor was just spinning but not engaging the flywheel.

How did they diagnose the root cause of why it wasn't starting?

By removing the starter cover, they found that a hose was blocking the starter gear from properly engaging. Once they moved the hose, the starter gear was able to reach and turn the flywheel.

How did they get the motorbike to start initially?

They bypassed some of the safety mechanisms by bridging two wires together to send power directly to the starter.

What other issues did they have to fix before it would run properly?

They had to fix a faulty fuse, reconnect a coil pack, and ensure the fuel pump was working by sending 12 volts directly to it.

Why was the narrator worried even after getting it running?

Because there is still a lot of work left to make it fully drivable, and they were concerned the clutches may not have been installed correctly.

What is the next major task they need to undertake?

The next major task is to get the motorbike actually driving, which will require fabricating a prop shaft, installing brake lines, and more.

Will the motorbike likely ever be road legal?

No, the narrator acknowledges it is unlikely to ever pass inspection and be made road legal.

Who helped diagnose the issues over the phone?

MK Sports Cars and a person named Ad who also owns the same type of motorbike helped diagnose the issues over the phone and social media.

What accessory does the narrator show toward the end of the video?

Towards the end, they show a custom sequential shifter that someone made for the motorbike.