New guy, looking for a K bike.

[OKC_Kent]

I've always liked the K bikes, but financial obligations have kept me off buying a second machine. I've spent most of my riding time on a KZ650 I've had for many many years.


Now a K1100LT from '93 has appeared for under $1000, but with 110k miles and a clutch that needs replacing. Owner says it runs great and has been maintained. If I buy this, I'm wondering what I'm looking at in doing this myself? I see a Clutch area on here I'll check out, but does a clutch job mean pulling the engine out of the bike?


And how many miles would a maintained 1100 go before tearing into the engine?


Thanks!


Kent

[Laitch]

I see a Clutch area on here I'll check out, but does a clutch job mean pulling the engine out of the bike?

The driveline and transmission are removed. The engine stays where it is.

[The Mighty Gryphon]

To do the clutch you need to pull the transmission.  The engine stays in the frame.  Being a new owner in there for the first time figure a long day of about 8 hours to do the job.  There are several screws and bolts that need to be replaced along with the clutch plate.  Total cost should be under $200 for parts.  eBay is your friend for clutch discs.

There are a couple recent threads around here about replacing the friction disc. 

It would be a good time to get in and do a few maintenance jobs as well.  Clutch spline lube, o-ring, drive shaft and swing arm bearing lube as well.  You'll have a like new drive train.

As far as engine life, if the oil and coolant are changed at the proper intervals, there is no reason not to expect at least 200,000 miles from that engine.

[Elipten]

I would question the owner about driveshaft greasing.  If splines are worn you could be in for a heck of a surprise cost wise


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[OKC_Kent]

Thanks for the replies everybody. I'm aware of the need to maintain the driveshaft splines on the K's, (dare I call it an "issue"?) and that is one of the first things I will find out from the owner.


I've been around bikes for about 45 years and not worried about doing this job myself, but a BMW is totally new to me. Actually most of the work I've done on all my bikes is regular maintenance, being smart enough doing that to not have to open an engine since the mid 1980's.  I'm a believer in regular maintenance to ward off bigger repairs.


Thanks again


Kent

[Elipten]

Clutch is easy but easier if get alignment tool.  Get all the supplies in advance and study in advance.  After studying ask questions here.


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[jakgieger]

I thought the spline issue was greatly reduced in the 1100's...Offer a little less  and buy it if you are sure of the maintenance history (records) and the physical condition is good.