General Category => Restoration Projects => Topic started by: Sonrisers on April 13, 2013, 08:26:19 PM

Title: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on April 13, 2013, 08:26:19 PM
Thought I would post some pics, and start my "build topic", Not much to look at yet, but hopefully I will remember to add pics as it progresses. Frame is almost ready for powdercoat, got the wheels stripped down and ready for blasting. Just got my carb and breather back from getting polished. Got a friend that has been polishing for years, does a really good job, and very reasonable  prices.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on April 14, 2013, 05:17:30 AM
I know yer excited and all , but if you want good clear pics , you gotta hold the camera still . ;)

Looking good . It's kind of a shame to cover up that metal once you get it nice and shiny clean .
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: SIMPLEXUSA on April 14, 2013, 05:36:44 PM
LOOKS GREAT
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on June 02, 2013, 07:55:20 PM
Ok, got the rims and hubs powdercoated, and just painted to spokes, prob a bad idea to paint spokes but we'll see. I believe I got the spokes in the right pattern, but have no idea how to get the hubs centered so I can get them in the jig to start truing them up. Some of the spoke nipples are still sticking out about quite a bit...any tricks or suggestions???
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on November 23, 2013, 10:03:57 AM
Hi all, I've been out of the loop for a while, been busy with the kettle Korn. Now that the cold weather is back, I will be able to get back to work on the simplex and hopefully get it running this winter. Still needs a lot of work and parts. Look forward to hearing from all of you again. James
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on November 23, 2013, 11:07:47 AM
Welcome back James . :)

Hope you did well over the Summer .

Pete . :)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on November 23, 2013, 01:52:45 PM
Come'on James, get moving!  Only 7 1/2 months left to Portland.  Looking forward to seeing you again.  Maybe this year we can get some guys to ride to town on these opld machines!
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Bruce on November 23, 2013, 02:04:36 PM
Rick...is the truck legal to just ride to town? Bikes too? A lot aren't really registered
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on November 23, 2013, 02:58:02 PM
Can't wait til Portland, I just hope I can get this thing running before then.Lots of work to do, and I'm not as mechanically inclined as a lot of the ppl on here, but it has been a blast so far.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on November 23, 2013, 03:36:00 PM
Can't wait til Portland, I just hope I can get this thing running before then.Lots of work to do, and I'm not as mechanically inclined as a lot of the ppl on here, but it has been a blast so far.

I saw your woodworking skills, I don't buy that "not mechanical" thing one bit!
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on November 23, 2013, 03:36:41 PM
Rick...is the truck legal to just ride to town? Bikes too? A lot aren't really registered

Anything goes in Portland!  They let you ride anywhere as far as I could tell.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on November 23, 2013, 07:22:48 PM
You guys are all talking about "timing, points and gap, and .015"...I always just put a match book cover in there, tighten them up and see if the stupid thing has spark .lol I am gonna be having a lot of questions when I get going on it again, like what to do with the motor...just put it together and hope for the best or new rings and such. It ran when I got it and then it was torn apart. I guess it is pretty easy to tear it apart again if not running right.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Bruce on November 24, 2013, 05:38:05 AM
I was gonna mention matchbook cover but not many people carry them anymore
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on November 24, 2013, 06:13:32 AM
A matchbook cover is about .020" thick . Used them many times in the old days .

Another trick is to run a clean dollar bill between the points to clean them .

Pete . :)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on January 16, 2014, 08:26:11 PM
Just put an order in with Wayne for the ignition parts and everything behind the flywheel...he says it's easy to put it all together, only one way it goes together...not sure this is something I'm ready for, but I guess we'll see. I think with these parts, I should be able to get it running. Still not sure about wiring and kill switch and everything, I'm sure I will have a lot of questions when I start working on it.  I'll try to get some pics posted when I get back on the bench, Wish me luck.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on January 16, 2014, 09:33:35 PM
If you can make popcorn , you shouldn't have any trouble at all . ;)

Pete . :)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on January 25, 2014, 06:43:37 PM
The plan is to get this thing running on Feb 1st. My wife is gonna be gone for the weekend to a church conference, and me and 2 of my brothers are gonna hit it hard. I didn't do a very good job of posting and updating in this build topic, but I hope to get a lot of pics. Everybody needs to be "on call" that day in case any emergencies arise.lol
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on January 25, 2014, 09:22:09 PM
I don't know how much help I'd be , but , like every other day , I should be around . ;)

Pete . :)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on February 01, 2014, 06:33:00 PM
Well, I worked all day on the bike. Decided to disassemble and check bearings, and glad I did, the main bearing was in pretty bad shape. Put it all back together and put the flywheel and kicker on, and tried to spin it over and it is turning very hard, I can kick it over, but it shouldn't be turning that hard. Wondering if the kicker shaft is binding, or if something in the internals is wrong.It spins easier with your hand, but it still seems harder than I would think it should be. Pretty disappointed with  it right now, so I threw in the towel for tonight, it  will have to wait. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on February 01, 2014, 07:15:07 PM
Rick, I was at the parts house earlier when you gave me the numbers for the Main bearings, I wrote them down, but I guess I walked off and left it on the counter. The bearing I got was thinner then the one that came out, about 1/8", we drove it in til it seated and the crank spun all right. I found an earlier post talking about some models having the thinner bearings, but for the life of me I can't find it now. I think pd and you were talking about it. If you get a chance, can you repost the size of all the bearings? Thanks, James
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on February 01, 2014, 07:27:50 PM
Just found the post, and I did get the wrong bearing, It should be a 5205, not a 6205, If I had went to the next page, I would have found out that a typo was made. Oh well.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on February 02, 2014, 04:00:29 AM
Just found the post, and I did get the wrong bearing, It should be a 5205, not a 6205, If I had went to the next page, I would have found out that a typo was made. Oh well.

James,

I edited the post with the typo a long time ago. I will go back and take out the part about the typo in PD's post so it doesn't create confusion for others.

 There are 2 different size bearings used, depending on the year.  The earlier Model M used the wide, 20.5 mm, and the later Model M used the 15mm.  I have not nailed it down to the exact change over point, but I would guess around 1955-1956.


6205 is 15mm wide
5205 is 20.6 mm wide
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: oil-lamp on February 02, 2014, 07:30:27 AM
Well just got the call from Wayne yesterday on the two cylinders I sent him. New pistons one new rod (old one bent) new crank bore job ect. Will be on the road for under $700.00 but I will have two running.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on February 02, 2014, 10:55:03 AM
Thanks Rick, when I got on the forum yesterday to find the bearing size, I was scrambling, and just scanning over everything in the search, if I had went to the next page, I would have seen the right size...the parts house didn't have the right size anyway, but I did find it on the website you listed. Is there anyway we could start a topic that just has specs like that in it w/o everything else mixed in? I think that would be really helpful in finding part sizes and other specs. This forum has a wealth of info, but specific things are is hard to find sometimes. Thanks for everything, James
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on February 02, 2014, 11:39:20 AM
James, that is a good idea.  One of these days, I will try to put something together.  I know people keep asking about belt sizes also.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on February 02, 2014, 05:25:43 PM
Finally figured out why it was spinning so hard. It would spin fine til I put the mag plate on. Apparently there is suppose to be a bushing on the long bolt that bolts the back plate on. I didn't have one on it and when I would tighten it down it was binding and not letting it turn over right. Then I had some wires dragging on the inside of flywheel also. I don't have all the original clips to tie them down. Don't have any spark yet, but at least it is turning over now. Is there anything that holds the mag plate bearing in place? I can slide it in and out, I can put it back in place after mounting, but I don't know if it will stay in place. Also It shows a spring behind the point cam... in one of the diagrams I saw...I don't have this is this something I need? Wayne never mentioned it when I talked to him.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on February 02, 2014, 06:20:46 PM
Yes, you need the spring. The spring holds the bearing in place.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: old servi on February 02, 2014, 09:04:22 PM
On the older engines, there is a screw under the engine that holds the mag bearing in place.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on February 03, 2014, 06:15:09 PM
I got a call from my brother tonight, and he said he couldn't get the bike to fire with the original points set up, but put the nova 2 ignition module on and is firing....must have had something grounding out with the points and condenser. Is the spring behind the cam something I can find or do I have to get one from Wayne?
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on February 03, 2014, 06:33:12 PM
Is there any kind of stop on the kicker? When I put the kicker and spring on, it works great, but the spring wants to pull the kicker back around into the pinion gear???
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on February 03, 2014, 06:42:13 PM
Not sure about the timing cam spring , but you must have the kicker spring on backwards . It's suppose to bring the kick lever forward to the stop , keeping it away from the pinion gear .
Can you post a pic of how you have it set now ?

Pete . :)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Mike Sal on February 03, 2014, 08:39:19 PM
Or you may have the spring wound up backwards. 
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on February 04, 2014, 04:51:49 PM
Ok, there seems to be 2 different ways the spring can go on, but is there  suppose to be a tab or something that keeps the kicker from being pulled forward after it is started? Kicker has plenty of return from the spring, but the arm wants to fall forward into the pinion gear. I want to take pictures, but I keep forgetting to take the camera when I go to work on it. I can rig up something and weld it on,  but I would like to keep it original.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on February 04, 2014, 06:15:17 PM
The spring 'finger' goes through the small hole just below the kicker pivot rod . The hook goes around the back side of the kick 'lever' .

(https://s26.postimg.org/rfz9omhpl/screenshot_20.png)

Yes . There's suppose to be a stop .

Maybe this will help :

(https://s26.postimg.org/w35bqe52h/633aec86-53a8-4cd0-829b-bf29e73acbae_zpse4d5fdc9.jpg)

Pete . :)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on February 08, 2014, 03:30:17 PM
Well, another day spent and still not running. Problems everywhere I turn. Put the sediment bulb on and turned on the gas, and fuel started pouring out, after messing with that for 2hrs trying to get to seal, I finally threw it aside and rigged up a fuel line w/o a shut off. Put gas in and fuel started pouring out of the carb. Took the needle valve out and messed with that for another hour and finally got the float working, but still can't get it to start. Got spark, but it floods almost immediately. I'm about to throw in the towel. Anything else I've ever worked on getting spark was the hardest part, but after that it would usually start up even if t wasn't running right. If it keeps going this way, you may be seeing a pretty yellow and black bike that has good spark, but don't run... come up for sale >:(
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on February 08, 2014, 03:51:29 PM
Patience , my good man , patience . ;)

It's just a machine . It'll run . Set the float and needles properly . It may take a bit of play to get it right .

I had to do a bunch of kicking before mine started .

Pete . :)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: oil-lamp on February 08, 2014, 06:41:55 PM
You are trying the first start with no belts on the motor. Also have a fan close by for cooling and start with all set screws 1/4 open and open slowly.

Try this one on for size. Try getting a box of wrong parts and then waiting several more days to get the right parts. The waiting is killing me.  ???
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on February 08, 2014, 07:01:51 PM
Good advice , Reese .
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on February 09, 2014, 12:21:47 PM
That makes a lot of sense. I think I am gonna take the belts and transmission off,  that will also make it easier  to work on the carb. Thanks.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Mike Sal on February 09, 2014, 04:30:40 PM
I've made a heavy wire "hook" to undo the spring which tensions the belt to the motor when tinkering with it.

Don't be afraid to set the float a little lower that the manual says.  Also, don't be afraid to loosen the screws to the compression plate to let excess fuel to drain out.  You'll be surprised how many times you'll have way too much fuel gather in the bottom of the crankcase while your fine tuning it to run well.
Mike Sal
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on February 09, 2014, 06:56:41 PM
Thanks for the info guys. What happened with your parts Reese?
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: oil-lamp on February 09, 2014, 07:18:20 PM
My parts got sent to a guy with a 49 just southwest by 118 miles. Wayne crossed our labels and I got his and He got mine. He is not a member yet but I ask him to check us out. I wished I wrote his motor number down while I had it in my hands.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on February 09, 2014, 07:40:57 PM
That stinks...but maybe we can gain another member from it. What all did you order? is Wayne installing everything, or are you doing it?
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: oil-lamp on February 09, 2014, 07:56:08 PM
He re-worked two cylinders that needed new pistons, one rod was bent the other to loose. He fixed one flywheel and I got a new crank, gaskets, bearings, exhaust manifold, and a few extras. Not much.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: old servi on February 09, 2014, 09:26:42 PM
Cut the gas off and buy a can of starter fluid. Do no turn the gas on and spray a little starter fluid into the carb. Kick it a few times. You should get a fire up with the starting fluid. It will not continue to run, just a fire up for a few seconds. Do it several times and then your engine should be cleaned out ready to use the gas into the carb. If it is flooding, could be the float level or the needle valve that the float opens for gas to come in, not the adjusting needle this time. Then adjust the screw in needle valve to get the right mixture.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: kartjockey on February 21, 2014, 09:16:00 AM
James,  How is your simplex coming along?  Are you burning gas yet?
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on February 21, 2014, 03:34:07 PM
Not yet, I had to walk away from it for a while, I was about to scrap it and take the money and run. I was planning on working on it this weekend, but I ordered the right bearings for it and haven't got them yet. I am going to replace piston and rings , and thought I should put the right bearing in it while I have it torn apart. I have a lot of little things to get buttoned up on it, but I think it should be running in the next couple of weeks.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on February 21, 2014, 05:15:02 PM
Here is what I have been working on since I walked away from the simplex...a headboard for my brother who has spent a lot of time helping me on the simplex.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on February 21, 2014, 05:47:11 PM
I take it your brother is single or he spends a lot of time in the dog house . ;)

Nice work on the head board .

Pete . :)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: oil-lamp on February 21, 2014, 07:56:42 PM
Well you are not alone on walking away from the bike. Its been a week and i have not even turn a bolt on mine. The weather has been just great here and I'm getting a bunch done around here. Maybe this Sunday I will get it done. I hope.   ???
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on February 21, 2014, 08:23:48 PM
Got ya beat , Reese . Haven't even seen my bike since the first of September . And , I'm not sure how long it'll be 'til I see it again . :(

Pete . :)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on March 01, 2014, 04:14:36 PM
Tore the engine apart and put the new bearing and new piston  and rings in and got it put back together, but ran out of time, still not running, but shouldn't be long now.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on March 22, 2014, 01:35:28 PM
IT RUNS!!!!! Thanks Rick, shouldn't be long now.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on March 23, 2014, 11:05:37 AM
Did you get to ride it yet?  Post a picture!
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on March 23, 2014, 07:04:08 PM
Haven't had time to put it back together yet, but did go and pick up the motor. Shot a video of the first time I got to see it run. Not much to see, but I am pretty excited. No gas to it yet, just sprayed carb cleaner and wd in the carb.    .https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yi5l4-eYy1Q&feature=youtu.be
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: oil-lamp on March 23, 2014, 07:28:36 PM
Congrats you matched the right spark, fuel, and air to make RPMs.    ;D  :o
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on March 23, 2014, 08:17:19 PM
Reese, I didn't have the coil grounded, I thought one of the coil wires needed to go to kill switch. After hashing it out with Rick, we discovered that it needed to be grounded. Still haven't put gas to it, but  at least I was able to hear it run. Hooked up points, and that is what I'm gonna stay with at least til I get to ride it.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on March 23, 2014, 09:38:47 PM
Maybe this will help :

(https://s26.postimg.org/s4haz1v6x/Basic_Wico_Magneto_Wiring_Diagram_zps6852a91b.jpg)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on March 25, 2014, 09:23:49 PM
Worked on the bike tonight, got the motor back in the frame, hooked up the throttle, should be ready for gas next time I work on it. I need to know how to route the wiring. Anybody know the best and cleanest way to run the wires to head and tail lights? Pics would be awesome!! I think I'm just gonna hook up a toggle switch on the top motor mount for now, til I can afford to get the right stuff.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on March 25, 2014, 09:53:10 PM
Here's a flier pic . You can make out the wiring going nearly straight up from the stator to the upper motor mount plate .

(https://s26.postimg.org/r60xwrhux/1957_Simplex_Automaticmailer2.jpg)

This is my bike . I routed basically the same way . I noticed that my tank support U rail had a couple of good sized holes about where the wiring would come up . I speculate that originally the wiring was routed through the rail , both forward and back .

(https://s26.postimg.org/5b8fqz2sp/Out_of_the_barn.jpg)

Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on March 26, 2014, 08:32:42 PM
Put gas to it tonight and got it running on it's own. Need to adjust the carb a little, but I started it up several times. Portland...here I come.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on March 26, 2014, 09:03:15 PM
Excellent .

You asked about wire routing > Take a look at Staffords' new bike : http://www.simplexservi-cycle.com/index.php?topic=984.msg8522#new

http://www.simplexservi-cycle.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=984.0;attach=5491;image

Pete . :)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on March 27, 2014, 09:00:35 PM
Still having trouble adjusting the carb, I can get it idling, but when I try to throttle it up it dies. Still need to put the transmission and rear fender back on, but would like to get it running right while it is still on the bench.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: kartjockey on March 28, 2014, 03:52:08 AM
Can't tell for sure but it looks like your crank stuffer is on inside out. Does your cover protrude outward from the block?  Is that a dimple on the side of it? If so,  turn it around and put dimple up towards piston and in line with cylinder. I don't think an 'M' will run hardly at all without the stuffer in place.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: admin on March 28, 2014, 04:17:37 AM
Can't tell for sure but it looks like your crank stuffer is on inside out. Does your cover protrude outward from the block?  Is that a dimple on the side of it? If so,  turn it around and put dimple up towards piston and in line with cylinder. I don't think an 'M' will run hardly at all without the stuffer in place.

Tom, that is just a wood cover that James made.  Hopefully he has the stuffer under there.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Mike Sal on March 28, 2014, 10:23:14 AM
That color combo reminds me of the mid-thirties Schwinn that I fixed up as a kid.  I painted it just like that & made a fake tank to simulate the motorcycle look of the old days.  I bought almost all of the parts, like spokes, etc, at the local Western Auto store.  That bike was given away along with my Simplex & other treasures by my dad when I wasn't home.....

Seeing all the interest now in the re-pop board track racers tells me I was just way ahead of the times......
Mike Sal
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on March 28, 2014, 10:40:22 AM
Stuffer is in there, along with ugly original cover. Any suggestions as to how I should be adjusting the carb??? This isn't really my thing. Wants to die when I try to rev it. Tried what the M manual said as far as adjustment, and can get it idling good, but can't give it much throttle b4 dieing.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on March 28, 2014, 12:37:24 PM
James, has the carb been rebuilt?  Is it a factory carb or a reproduction?
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on March 28, 2014, 03:03:12 PM
I was told by 57 ford that it is a rebuilt carb from wayne.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: kartjockey on March 28, 2014, 03:03:37 PM
If you know you have an adequate flow of fuel from the tank I would say the high idle circuit is plugged.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on March 28, 2014, 04:05:59 PM
If you know you have an adequate flow of fuel from the tank I would say the high idle circuit is plugged.

I was thinking along the same lines.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on March 28, 2014, 08:20:00 PM
ooookay??? Common folk terms please.lol
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: kartjockey on March 29, 2014, 06:28:24 AM
Sounds like that dern thing aint getting no gas!  Just joking!  However, it does sound like that carb as to come back off.  Review an exploded view of the carb. I would say there are some passage ways that are plugged. As you take it apart lay each part down one at a time in order. Make sure every small hole is clear. I like to use that canned air for blowing off computer keyboards and etc. Gives you better control and doesn't send little parts into orbit!
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: admin on March 29, 2014, 07:09:13 AM
Like Tom said.  These carbs are about as simple as they get. There are not many parts to keep track of.  Remember, do not over tighten the needle screws, as this can destroy the needle and seats.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on March 29, 2014, 09:52:14 AM
It was running gas out of the carb again, and the needle valve seemed to be seated b/c I couldn't blow thru the gas line. So I took the float off and adjusted it down so it would shut off sooner....Is there a chance that It is too low now???
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on March 29, 2014, 11:22:51 AM
James ,

You might try a float setting of 1 15/32" .

Pete . :)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on March 29, 2014, 08:37:35 PM
Called Wayne today, told what it has been doing. He said that it sounded like I need to turn the needle adjustment screw out, I did, and it started revving up. Thought I had it fixed, so I put the trans and rear fender back on, took it off the bench, started it and it is now doing the same thing. It will start to take off, but then dies. After further inspection I noticed that the Needle screw was loose and dripping gas, I screwed it out another half turn and it fell out...this can't be good. I have seen on here that some have bought a new repop carb from Carpenters. Checked out the web site, and I can get a new one for $100. I also see that they have rebuild kits. Will the rebuild kits work in the carb I have now? I also see that Rick said he modified his by drilling more hole in the throttle shaft. I was hoping that if I bought a new carb, I could just bolt it on and go. Let me know what you guys think...I am wanting to ride this thing so bad. Thanks, James.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on March 29, 2014, 09:02:56 PM
Not the throttle shaft , James .
The holes get drilled in the metering tube to closer match the OEM setup .
It's a very easy process and there are pics so you won't be totally blind .

The longer you have to wait to ride , the bigger the smile on your face when that happens . My smile started as a smile and ended with a laugh and YAHOO !! But then , I only waited about 48 years . ;)

Pete . :)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on March 30, 2014, 08:21:31 PM
Took the carb off today and cleaned everything, put it back together, started it up rode it half a block and it started doing the same thing, will idle but don't throttle up enough to pull itself and then dies. I noticed when I put it up, after it sits leaned on the kickstand, there is gas puddled under the bike. I think it is coming from the compression cover, if that is the case, wouldn't it be getting too much Gas???
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on March 30, 2014, 08:29:47 PM
I am using a brake line for the gas line, and it is pretty small, is there a chance It is not getting enough gas when it needs it? Adjusted the float like PD said above, didn't notice and obstructions in any of the carb parts, but it did run a lot better right after I put it back together. Also, the guy I had work on the motor soldered both plug wires to the single output coil, could this cause any problems? I don't see why it would be a problem...just throwing out things to see if any one has suggestions. At least I was able to ride it, even if it was only a short distance.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Mike Sal on March 30, 2014, 08:48:27 PM
While your getting these bikes tweaked out, it's a handy thing to keep a screw driver in your hlp pocket so you can loosen the screws on the compression plate & let the excess fuel drain out. 

Don't be afraid to lower the float level in the carb.  It's easy for these things to run too rich.  I wonder if your just getting too much gas.  BTW, I'm also using brake line for my fuel line. 

Sometimes the double coil can go bad but having the plug wires together shouldn't hurt anything (I wonder if your mechanic really understood how the Simplex coils work?). 
Mike Sal
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on March 31, 2014, 04:00:37 AM
If you are running the single output coil, just run one plug wire to the coil.  Then other just becomes a dummy for looks. This will send all of the coil output to the one plug and will make it fire stronger.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on April 01, 2014, 07:50:32 PM
Went for a ride tonight! Only about 2 blocks, but it gave me a big smile, just like PD said it would. Don't seem to have much power, I would guess I was only goin about 15 mph. Still some tweaking to do, but I think I'll keep it. LOL. And just a little nugget...never ride with the fender on and the luggage rack off, especially with new paint. I have a quarter sized gouge from bottoming out against the fender. I'm thinking a black racing stripe will cover it nicely. BTW, I removed one of the plug wires from the single output coil, and it runs a lot better. Thanks Rick.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on April 03, 2014, 06:15:35 PM
How is the best way to route the wires to the head light and tail light? I see a hole in the upper rear tube, but then where do you go from there? Do the wires just follow one of the fender braces, if so, how do you attach to it?? Zip ties would always do the trick...but I think that wouldn't look so good. Any suggestions?
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Mike Sal on April 04, 2014, 10:37:50 AM
The tail lite wires run down thru the right rear upper bar, going thru the drilled hole near the seat spring & out thru the hole in the cork plug at the bottom of the bar.  From there they run along the inside of the lower fender brace. 
Those 2 holes in the brace used to have metal clips that held the wires.  If your clips are gone, I've seen a lot of people use zip ties.....dunno if Wayne has the clips or not.....  If you don't know what they look like, I can try to take a picture of one so you can search thru the McMaster Carr catalog or hardwar store.

The headlight wire goes up thru the hole in the fuel tank brace, out the front & then up to the switch (if your switch is on the anchor plate). 
Mike Sal
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on April 04, 2014, 07:26:20 PM
Thanks Mike, I didn't realize that is what the holes in the fender brace were for, and I have never seen the clips. I bet I can rig something up.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on April 04, 2014, 08:16:23 PM
I just use a couple small zip ties . Works fine and they are hardly noticeable .

Pete . :)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on April 04, 2014, 08:53:14 PM
That's kinda what I've been thinking Pd.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on April 09, 2014, 02:49:47 PM
Is there a process for adjusting the rear wheel and aligning the rear belt with the pulley? While riding, the belt wants to ride on the edge of the rear sheave and then slip off. When looking at it from behind, you can see that it is out of line. Do I need any kind of spacers behind the sheave where it bolts to the spokes? The sheave came off of an older model 1" wheel. I read somewhere b4 that the 2" wheel needs spacers behind the sheave, but don't know how thick?? If so is there a part you can get from Wayne of something that can be made like using washers?
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on April 09, 2014, 03:25:43 PM
According to the M manual the OEM part # is 5809 for those spacers .

I'm not sure if Wayne has them or not .

Pete . :)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on April 09, 2014, 03:28:41 PM
You need part #5809, 18 of them to be exact. They are 1/4" wide spacers to move the sheave out. I'm sure Wayne would have them, and order the longer bolts from him while you are at it.  If you want to make your own, you could cut them from some tubing on a lathe.

PD, you beat me to it. I was looking up the number also! 
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on April 09, 2014, 05:22:11 PM
I have the M Manual on a shortcut , so I can get to it a bit quicker . ;)

Pete . :)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on April 09, 2014, 07:54:08 PM
I took the sheave off and put 1/4" nuts in behind it, put the wheel back on and it seems to be tracking a lot better. I think I'm gonna call the project good til Portland. Still not running perfectly, not a lot of power, still missing a few things I hope to pick up in  Portland. I'm to the point of "Jimmy Rigging" things b/c of lack of funds and knowledge. I think I will wait til Portland and get some advice from the experts. I now have to get busy on a hope chest that needs to be designed and built by by June for a wedding.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on April 12, 2014, 06:55:25 PM
Well I just couldn't leave it alone....I took it to the shop today and got the luggage rack bent and formed to the bike and while I was there, we tinkered with the carb and got it running a lot better. Still hard to start, but it is running better. I still have the rigged up "drill starter" on it. The last time I put the pinion gear on, I bruised the back of my thigh on the seat from kicking the darn thing so much. Rode it several times today, and my wife even took it for a spin.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on April 12, 2014, 08:21:11 PM
"The last time I put the pinion gear on, I bruised the back of my thigh on the seat from kicking the darn thing so much."

Now you know why the right side of my seat is 'worn' through . ;)

(https://s26.postimg.org/605lyzazt/HPIM1588.jpg)

Pete . :)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on April 20, 2014, 07:27:55 PM
Took the Simplex to the Easter dinner this weekend. All who were brave enough went for a short ride and had a blast. 2 Grand kids, Step son and my father inlaw.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: oil-lamp on April 21, 2014, 06:40:48 AM
Looking good.  8)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on April 27, 2014, 07:45:27 PM
Wanting to get the seat recovered. I have seen on here that others recommend heathers leathers, but can't seem to get a response from them through email. Tried calling a couple times tonight, but it gives me a busy signa, was hoping for voice maill. I got the email and ph # off their web site. Does anyone have their contact info and when is the best time to contact? What is the turn around? I see on the site it should cost about $185 to get it covered, Is this the going rate??? Or are there other charges I'm not seeing?
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on April 28, 2014, 04:42:54 AM
James, that is the going rate.  The only option I took was an upgraded foam.  He said a stiffer foam holds the shape better over time.  I think is was something like $20.

Just a though, but this weekend was the AMCA show in Oley, PA.  There is a chance he might be there.  I think he is just a one man operation.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on April 30, 2014, 04:00:50 PM
I was able to get a hold of them the other day, I think I am gonna go with the standard, but with that sunburst color...kind of darker around the edges. I am hoping I can get the funds before Portland, otherwise I'll have to wait til we get further into the popcorn season. It has been a long, hard winter.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on April 30, 2014, 05:32:20 PM
I was able to get a hold of them the other day, I think I am gonna go with the standard, but with that sunburst color...kind of darker around the edges. I am hoping I can get the funds before Portland, otherwise I'll have to wait til we get further into the popcorn season. It has been a long, hard winter.

I think that is the color I have on my blue bike.  I like the way it highlights the edges.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on May 18, 2014, 04:36:38 PM
I actually put the real kicker on the simplex today and started it up in 2 kicks.  I have been starting it with a drill since I wore a hole in the back of my leg when I was trying to get it started the first time. Still have a few odds and ends to finish it up, but hope to get the rest of the parts while at Portland. Seat is gonna be shipped off to get covered in a couple of weeks, then We'll be set. Took  it for a ride today, and had my phone with a speedo app.....20 mph was top speed. Is that about par, or should It be faster??
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on May 18, 2014, 04:40:48 PM
I actually put the real kicker on the simplex today and started it up in 2 kicks.  I have been starting it with a drill since I wore a hole in the back of my leg when I was trying to get it started the first time. Still have a few odds and ends to finish it up, but hope to get the rest of the parts while at Portland. Seat is gonna be shipped off to get covered in a couple of weeks, then We'll be set. Took  it for a ride today, and had my phone with a speedo app.....20 mph was top speed. Is that about par, or should It be faster??
An automatic should get up close to 40.  I really need to run mine out on a flat road with a chase vehicle to find out for sure.  At Portland, they have that nice road right next to the fairground, we should test it out!  LOL
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on June 01, 2014, 12:49:49 PM
I am starting to see quite a bit of sediment in the fuel bulb, I thought I had the tank cleaned pretty good, and didn't think I needed to seal it, Hope that wasn't a bad idea. I am finally gonna send off the seat pan tomorrow, can't wait to see what it looks like with a real seat.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on June 25, 2014, 04:43:05 PM
2 of the three inserts I put in the flywheel to hold the pinion gear on have come loose. one of them is still solid. The 2 that came loose, are so loose they don't thread in. I should have had someone who knew what they were doing fix it in the first place, but I am hoping I can use some jb weld to hold them in place for Portland, but I will eventually have to get it fixed right. Any other suggestions???
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: kartjockey on June 25, 2014, 07:32:38 PM
Not sure what inserts you started with.  Heli-coils?  From there you can go to a Keen-Sert. What size is the bolt?

1/4-20 ???  Call me.  I have some ideas.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on June 25, 2014, 08:22:36 PM
Somebody had drilled out the holes where the studs thread into. I found some inserts that I thought were self tapping and I ended up drilling out the holes more than I should have to get them to fit. I also put some jb weld on them, but with all the stress the kicker puts on them it didn't hold. I think the holes are too big for a heli coil now, but I have never used them before. I will try calling tomorrow some time, what is a good time to call you Tom?
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: kartjockey on June 26, 2014, 02:32:22 AM
After work so maybe 6pm or so.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on June 28, 2014, 05:23:49 PM
Took the Simplex thru a parade where we were popping kettle Korn....WHAT A BLAST!!! Something that everyone should do. Lots of comments and lookers.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on June 28, 2014, 05:52:28 PM
How did it run?  Did you find any more power?
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on June 29, 2014, 12:39:32 PM
Ran good, didn't have any more power, and seemed to be getting pretty hot. Plan on talking more about it in Portland with you guys that are going. Check this out....https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=802824019729321&set=vb.123955000949563&type=2&theater&notif_t=like
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on June 29, 2014, 01:18:07 PM
James, that is awesome!  Love the horn.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on February 26, 2016, 08:46:06 PM
Hey everyone, haven't active on here for a while, wife's computer crashed and she has confiscated mine. The only way I can usually get on here is with my phone, and I hate using it to post and look around. Been really busy working on getting the ice cream shop ready for the reopening on March 25th.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on April 12, 2016, 05:24:51 PM
Finally found time to work on the simplex. I have been wanting to add head and tail lights without adding a battery. after hours of research on the internet, I finally found a youtube video of a guy changing the flywheel and adding a lighting coil. The guy said to find a flywheel off of a baja minibike like are sold at farm stores. after finding a guy on ebay that had bought a truckload of baja mini bikes that were store returns, I bought the whole kit for $60. When I recieved the flywheel, it didn't fit, the crank shaft taper was to small. After lookinga at it I realized that everything else was identical, so I removed the magnets from the new flywheel and drilled 2 holes in the original, and I now have power. several places on the internet say that there are 2 different sizes of crankshafts on the predator motor, but said if you have a Hemi style motor, it is the right size for the baja. From everything I have read, I have the hemi style motor....but the flywheel still didn't fit. I ordered 2 1156 led bulbs off of ebay for $8.... and 2 1157 led bulbs off of the web for $3. I wanted to buy the cheapest I could find in case it didn't work. I ground the tits off of the 1157 bulb, and then used the 3 keyhole flange off of one of Waynes headlight bulbs that I had broken...soldered the flange onto the new led bulb so I didn't have to grind out the headlight reflector....the 1156 bulbs fit right in the taillight sockets. the 1157 bulb isn't very bright, but it works for now til I cand find another brighter version. the tail light seems to be bright enough.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on April 12, 2016, 06:32:14 PM
James, that headlight is many magnitudes brighter than a stock simplex.  Nice job! And you said you were no mechanic.  Lol. Post a picture of the modified flywheel, if you have one.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on April 13, 2016, 07:42:49 AM
James ,

Here's a read that might help in your search . It has comparison pics to show differences and the author relays accurate specs .

http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/light-tech.187627/

Pete . :)
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: ndian22 on April 13, 2016, 09:37:26 AM
Really nice job on the LED setup...well done! RC
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on April 17, 2016, 05:53:40 PM
Here is some pics of the flywheel that was the wrong size. I removed the magnets from this one and added them to the original flywheel off of the predator 212 motor. The process was very simple, I just put the 2 flywheels together and marked the location, drilled and countersunk the holes so the bolt was buried. I also used the jb weld 2 part epoxy that dries clear and glued the magnet in place, then bolted them in like the original. There is 2 wires coming off of the charging coil....one goes to the power the lights and the other I grounded to a bolt on the flywheel housing. I forgot to take pics of the other flywheel before I put it back on and covered it up. I just used my drill press in my wood shop....like I said before very simple, and seems to be working fine. I was wondering about balancing, as there were holes drilled in the flywheel that I'm assuming were for balancing, but seems to be working ok.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on April 17, 2016, 06:48:52 PM
Good question about balance.  I wonder if a local machine shop could balance it for you.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Sonrisers on June 12, 2016, 07:24:02 PM
I was able to get the kettlekorn Express out for the cruzin Clarinda show and shine and parade event last Saturday. It was the first year for the show and shine and there was about 180 cars, tractors, trucks and motorcycles that showed up. Needless to say, I was the only Simplex in the whole bunch. If I could get you guys to travel to Iowa next year, it will be a lot more fun, lol. The last month has been a long hard and stressful month. On May 10th my father inlaw passed away from cancer and 15 hours later I got the news that my 26 year old son died from an accidental overdose. we were gonna try to go to portland and get back in time to pop corn at a huge event, but decided the we are gonna skip that and go to Portland. WWe are planning on showing up on Monday so we can look around and have some fun. We won't be setting up the kettlekorn til Thursday, so I hope everybody else is able to show up early so we can spend some time together before we set up the popcorn. Hoping to have another good turn out for the group photo.
Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: pd on June 12, 2016, 09:45:27 PM
James ,

My condolences ...  One is hard enough .

Pete . :)

Title: Re: Sonrisers 55'
Post by: Ricks on June 13, 2016, 07:26:17 AM
Sorry to hear James. My condolences to you and Brenda.  See you in Portland for better times.

Rick