Tech Tip: New Owners Checklist

[gsxbarmy]

If you have just purchased your first GSX1400, then the following checklist (inspired by a suggestion from Grog) will assist with checking it over to make sure that all is as it should be.

General Checks:
•   Unless you know it has been done, change the oil and oil filter. When replacing the oil drain plug, do replace the drain plug washer, also be very careful not to over-tighten the drain plug (as the oil pan is quite thin, and it is very easy to strip the thread from the drain hole)

•   Check the brake and clutch fluid - it should not be black - if it is it will need changing

•   Check the idle revs when hot  - should be 1100rpm

•   Check how slack the throttle cables are – the process for this is detailed in the owners handbook on Page 48. If you don’t have a handbook, you can download an electronic copy here http://gsx1400owners.org/forum/index.php?action=downloads;sa=view;down=11  Some owners prefer no slack, the main thing though is to check that there is no variation lock to lock once adjusted

•   Check that all the pistons in both the front and rear calipers are free and move easily http://gsx1400owners.org/forum/index.php?topic=237.0 also check that the  bobbins on the front floating discs move readily http://gsx1400owners.org/forum/index.php?topic=211.0

•   Check that all the suspension adjusters – both on the front forks and sliders, also on the rear shocks move also that they are set the same / correctly (it’s quite surprising how many 14’s have been left with (for instance) the shocks left on different settings each side.  If you want to set your suspension up for you, there are a few tips here http://gsx1400owners.org/forum/index.php?topic=213.0

•   Check the chain adjustment for slack (as detailed in the handbook (Page 50), with the chain on its side stand). If you don’t have a handbook, you can download an electronic copy here http://gsx1400owners.org/forum/index.php?action=downloads;sa=view;down=11

•   Check that the rear wheel is aligned – the markings for adjusting the chain on the Swingarm cannot be trusted! Check using calipers or a straight piece of wood

Optional Checks:
•   Check that the TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) at closed is 1100 ohms http://gsx1400owners.org/forum/index.php?topic=263.0
http://gsx1400owners.org/forum/index.php?topic=1497.0

•   Disable the PAIRS system – this will stop the banging and popping on the over run and also make the bike run a little smoother. Full details of how to do this are here http://gsx1400owners.org/forum/index.php?topic=310.0 however, what is recommended at first (to see if you like this mod) is take the pipe off the PAIRS cover on the engine, screw a short Allen bolt (the correct size) into the end of the cover, and then replace the hose

•   Add a cable tie to the Pressure Regulator on the fuel pump http://gsx1400owners.org/forum/index.php?topic=1610.0 as if the OEM clip comes off – often when you are far from home – it will stop the bike from starting

•   Clean the “Tea Bag” on the fuel filter http://gsx1400owners.org/forum/index.php?topic=430.0

[seth]

Fantastic addition to the forum well thought out .
 

[Kiwifruit]

Good work Barmy.

[Tony Nitrous]

 

PAIR blanks are more to do with having a good aftermarket free flowing pipe. I do them on bikes with full systems but not with just cans.  Apart from stopping the awful pop and fart on the overrun, they also help the sniffer on the dyno get a more accurate reading. They are less of an issue on a bike with just cans IMO.


I'd add to that, if your going to look at one, check for corrosion to the alloy fork legs / engine cases. They aren't weather friendly, but are fixable.

If your looking at a real rat / neglected bike / project / all weather bike, check the frame rails around and behind the rear shock top mounts. Rare, but I've seen a couple with some rot to the frame.

Have a look if the exhaust has been off or studs changed recently. Not just a 14 issue but snapped exhaust studs aren't much fun and get a regular mention amongst owners.

Don't be put off if someone's put a 190/55 on instead of a 190/50. It's fine. Whilst Im not a fan of 200's or 180's they aren't a real drama if you look at a bike with one.

[V_i_c_i]

Great job for newbie Barmy 

[Notty]

That will b a great help - thanks Dave 

[grog]

thanks Barmy, superb job. sort of my words into action/writing. brilliant. if all new owners read your doco, many questions answered. must be daunting for someone who doesnt know the tricks. all in a nut shell, we should advise all newies to have a read. other ideas also superb from you lot. 

[gsxbarmy]

Well we can sure point them to the topic grog, great idea mate, bang on! 

[gsxbarmy]

Just as an addition to this thread, I found a copy of the setup manual for a K2 recently (but its the same principles for all 14's essentially) - this is the manual that the dealerships used when they took delivery a brand new 14 "out of the crate" and built it up for the customer, so lots of good info about standard settings. I had Vladtepes upload it to the manuals section, so available for all to download

http://gsx1400owners.org/forum/index.php?action=downloads;sa=view;down=63

(Useful info for new owners doing standard checks  )

[seth]

Great addition barmy very well found
 

[cbrt]

Just went through this last night - rear shocks on different setting and rear wheel out of alignment 

[Tonythetiger]

Thanks for all the good quality info especially Barmy, that's some great advice mate. I will get at it next weekend when I have a bit more time too hand as I need too get my truck set up ready for work tomorrow after I've picked it up from the dealers, I'm looking forward to some spanner time on her then some rides out as it's a bank holiday next weekend..

[seth]

@Tommyboy67
Have a good read through this thread .

[Tim1954]

Just went through this last night - rear shocks on different setting and rear wheel out of alignment 

Just a stupid question from a newbie: If the rear wheel is not well aligned, wouldn't the steering be off center when riding straight ahead?
 

[Hooli]

Just went through this last night - rear shocks on different setting and rear wheel out of alignment 

Just a stupid question from a newbie: If the rear wheel is not well aligned, wouldn't the steering be off center when riding straight ahead?

Yup the bike would be crabbing down the road.

Be aware though, the marks on the swingarm aren't always accurate. So the wheel may appear out of line when the bike is setup correctly.