TRYING TO FIX MY CHEAP HONDA BLACKBIRD WAS A MISTAKE 

I've been working on my own bikes and friend's bikes for a while now (started my motor education at 12yo and am 67yo now), just for context. My advice would be...Stop. Step back a moment and think about what you're trying to achieve and exactly what the machinery might be used for. This is a machine capable of life taking speeds when everything is perfect from the factory. It's now something less than perfect, isn't it? First, clean everything, chassis, engine, wheels, etc. One can't diagnose problems if one can't see them. Secondly, before installing the engine in the frame, have you pulled the spark plugs and examined them? Next, I'd rig up a way to turn the engine over and do a compression check (another tool you don't have, I'm sure, but a wise investment if you'll be toying with motors). Plus, as you turn the motor over, are there other ungainly sounds emanating from the nether regions of the motor or drivetrain? If all is well, put new plugs in the heads and cover it up. Now, check the chassis components out (cables, wiring, wiring connections, etc.) as it's much easier now to find problems and fix them than it is with that hunk of a motor in there. Another bit not related to your current ministrations: It's nice if our bikes start, but they must stop! Completely check out the braking system before riding (providing that milestone is reached). And wheel bearings, chain, tires and such...give them a good going-over. Please consider these comments in the light of my intentions. I want you to be successful and healthy. You'll learn a ton in the process. In an earlier vid, a commenter stated that he would have purchased a nicer example of the Blackbird and would have come out ahead, finance-wise, in the end. Probably good advice. Cheers and best of luck.

Position the engine on the floor, pull the front forks off and lower the frame over the engine - it's a lot lighter than trying to balance/crank up the engine. Hopefully save some toes too.

Brutal honesty. I've rebuilt bikes. I have a nut and bolt rebuild NT650 currently. It was in far better condition than the Blackbird and required everything I will suggest. Your bike needs a complete nut and bolt stripdown It is totally knackered. It will need all new wheel/swingarm/fork bearings and seals.The brakes and clutch slave will need a complete stripdown with seal replacement (probably pistons). The forks will need a complete stripdown with new seals and bushes. Probably new chain and sprockets. The injector system will need a rebuild. Discs may need replacing. You plan on end can replacements. Oh and a shim job plus all fluids. I previously suggested you start a spreadsheet to keep track of costs. I reckon it will be thousands of quid. And doing it in the open! This is the harsh reality of bike projects. I do hope it all works out as I am committed to watching this now.

Your wife is a great sport for helping out! No way my wife would have anything to do with such a project.

Nicole is a rock star!! I love your enterprise and you are again proving why I never work on my bikes.....

Genuinely outstanding content. Honestly not many of us would be brave enough to attempt what you're doing, the fact you're not particularly technical either makes this all the more real and entertaining. Don't lose faith (he says from the comfort of his sofa) you're doing an amazing job. Stick with it. Nobody knows how to do anything like this without tinkering around and making mistakes. I for one applaud you, thanks for sharing, this project is a brilliant example of what makes RU-vid great 💪🏼👏🏼

I wouldn't put the engine in the boot nearly upside down. If there is any oil in it it can go past the piston rings and when you crank it it maybe hydrolocked and bend the rods. Before you will try to crank it take the spark plugs out, so in case of oil on top of the pistons it should spit it out without damage.

Done a few engine swaps in my time ,lay the engine down on it's barrels,then lift back of the engine ,put the bottom long bolt at gearbox end in then pivot the engine up to get the front engine mounts in,leave bolt loose for wiggle room,,j d

Your Missus is a superstar !

put a A frame ladder over the bike and straps around the engine. then ratchet the straps up to lift the engine up. Using the Ladder as a hoist Love the content slightly painful to watch you struggle just want to pop round help lol, All good fun keep it up with time I am sure your tools will get better and more suitable,

A few bang on comments on here, I've never rebuilt a complete bike and I'm no mechanic but I do most of my own wrenching on my bikes, take note of the comments, take a step back and rethink this project, I'm not saying give up but you need to rethink the process, keep that engine out get everything else cleaned up and replaced as needed as it'll be far easier with engine out, once your happy with condition of everything else then contemplate fitting the engine, plenty videos to be made on the rebuild process of removing, cleaning and or replacing all that's needed and I'll continue to watch as you do, don't be in such a hurry to get the bike "running", just my 2p worth. Good luck.

Hey done lots of engine swops. Easy way. Lay the bike on its side (watch out for hydraulic leaks, maybe use cling film on master cylinders). Put engine on its side and push it in the frame. Gravity is now not fighting you. Line up the holes and put in the bolts. (Yea one side will do) Stand bike up support with Jack and put in the others. Should be easy from there… oh and the injector rubbers will be hard so use a hot air gun to warm them prior to fitting. BUT get a mate to help, way easier if you do… good luck!

Hats off to you, mate. Very Brave of you to take on this project, and share your journey with us (don't stop, believing). I'm sure You'll do it, and learn a ton in the process. So best of luck.

Good luck with the project, I would start by stripping the lot and getting the frame and swing arm powder coated.

Oh mate, I promise I'm not taking the piss, but, this has to be the funniest thing I've seen on youtube for years. Your Mrs is an absolute superstar, definitely a keeper. I'm really looking forward to the next installment, thank you for doing this, it's fantastic viewing and I've every confidence in you turning this pigs ear into a silk purse.

I’m a guy with zero patience so watching you struggle there & stay calm I applaud you 👏 Also fair play to you Mrs for helping once again me & my Mrs would of split up over that 😂 Stick at it though you will get there ….trial & error ✅😉

Nice project, nice video's. A couple of things to consider: 1. get some proper tools 2. RTFM good luck and have fun

Had visions of the new engine slipping off the jack and ending up with another broken generator casing. This series is thoroughly entertaining.

Nicole! Take a bow, heroic!👏

I appreciate your honesty warts and all. I'm with you on this journey stay positive 👍

Here’s an idea that might help: last time I replaced an engine, I used a jack just to lift it off the ground and get it in the rough orientation, then I got a couple of big ratchet straps under the front and rear of the engine, then wrapped them over the frame and used the ratchets to lift it up into the frame and align the mounts. Paddock stands are also useful as they give a bit more room for manoeuvring the engine. I definitely agree with the what others are saying though, while the bike’s stripped, clean everything and make sure all is in good order, replace anything that needs replacing, and check everything you can on the engine before it goes back in the frame. It’ll save a tonne of headache if there’s a problem later on in the project.

doing that kind of job with your missus and not having a major row is impressive

I always knew this would be funny but it's even better than I thought!!

You misses is an absolute diamond, I’ve needed an extra pair of hands many time and the wife has just been like, no!

What I'd do: Take the wheels off, position the engine securely, drop frame onto engine. Good luck ; )

Oh... BTW, I found the best way to get the engine back in, was to lie the frame on it's side and insert the engine sideways, putting engine mounts through from the side. As yours is a stressed member, you might find that gives more clearance. Hope that helps, and I'm enjoying this so far.

Get a load of Philips screwdrivers to use as temporary engine bolts to help line everything up. Can wiggle them around and pull them out one at a time and replace with engine bolts. Hope that helps

You will get it and I’m sure a few choice words will be uttered. Whatever way you decide to put it back in just remember one thing…. You are supposed to be having fun! Just playing, it’ll suck a bunch at times, lol. Me and many others are cheering for your success, keep up the good work Rye👏

The struggles are real...... You've pulled on a proper contract here mate. I'm now invested, don't let the challenges break you. 👍

Nice work mate! Love the videos, keep m coming!

thanks for the upload keep going mate

A good night's sleep and it will all look a lot easier! Nicole is a cracking lass, being out there in the cold with you and mucking in like a good 'un. So few ladies like that about - luckily I've got one too - years ago she let me strip the top end of a KH400 in the kitchen, and even suggested I put Gunk in the sink to clean parts...... we've now been married for 29 years.

Good teamwork guys. Read some of the comments below, there is some good advice. I am enjoying your videos. You will get there. Keeping it real

Best build content in the uk this year I reckon!, I’m fully rooting for you on this one mate!, good luck!, can’t wait to see the next video!.

An epic build project‼️ Nothing beats creating a challenge, and learning as you go. (Even getting things wrong teaches you what not to do!) It's essentially a three dimensional puzzle, with physical, mechanical, and problem solving challenges along the way. You've got this‼️Just get dirty and have fun with it! (Now I'm off to the garage to do a fluid service on my Street Triple RS👍) Keep doing what you do‼️😁👍

Been there done that never again ,I did have an engine hoist and a covered double garage so I lifted the bike up over the engine which was supported on a wood frame .I also had 2 big helpers to maneuver it in . If I was you I would have given up and sold it for spares 😩

I feel your pain. Been there. Stood looking at a bike for 20mins. Cup of tea then start again. Good luck buddy 👍🏼

Nice one bro, you're best painting the engine and stripping/powder coating the frame and swingarm before assembling it back together

She's a keeper, one very patient girlfriend!

I'd try some wood on the jack & use screw drivers or smaller bolts to help line up the mounts and get them closer & a bit of jiggling insert the correct bolts.... If that make sense. Also a bit of 2x4 over the top of the frame with a ratchet strap may also really help take some of the weight of the engine and help lift / adjust it into position. It's doable 👌👍💪

My blackbird is my go to bike. I'm following this intently. Respect mate, in a world where we can buy almost anything uve chosen to restore a classic. Full support with the build. When ur done I'll send you a rear seat cowl/cover as a reward. 🏍👍🏻

I love the enthusiasm and determination you have for this project, I've tackled similar in the past taking on everything from an old RD125LC, through to modern litre sports bikes and each one was incredibly rewarding. If I could offer some advice, spend some money on good quality equipment and tools to assist with the more challenging tasks. Even hiring an engine hoist for a weekend will make your life so much easier when it comes to manipulating heavy pieces. With the bike in it's current state, I would also suggest giving everything a good clean, it's a golden opportunity to take years off the bike with the engine out and bring back a bit of sparkle to those harder to reach spots. It will also allow you to identify any other issues that may be hiding under all that grime. As my old granddad used to say, if a job's worth doing, it's worth doing properly.

Love this content I’m sure you will get it finished

Reminds me of putting my rebuilt motor back into the frame on my Laverda Jota. It weighed an absolute ton, and after a lot of faffing about and a lot of cursing, me and my mate decided to lay the motor on its side and lower the frame over the motor until the holes aligned, and we were able to get the bolts located. Still a royal pain in the arse though!

Get the engine up on blocks, get a couple of friends to lift the bike frame over, bolts in, kick blocks away, jobs a good one 👍

In the motorcycle world this is called bonding with your bike.

Loving this, it's a document of learning as you go and will be a source of reference for those who don't have a kitted out garage. I once travelled 80 miles to collect a 100,000 mile ZZR600 and rode it home, the thing had been maintained fairly religiously by the father and son keepers from new. Take the comments of "it's knackered" with a pinch of salt, nobody knows until things are inspected throughout the journey. Maybe try taking the forks, swing arm and wheels out then lower the frame onto the engine. Don't give up.

With those large engines… put the lower bolts in first… you can then use the jack to raise the engine up and the rest of the mounts will find their home… will little adjustment. It wouldn’t have been my first choice for a 1st time project rebuild… but you go for it… just don’t give up on it. 👍

Keep at it chap, you'll get it in there. 🖖

Make sure you have any necessary bits swapped over from the old engine onto the new one first, enjoyable series and look forward to the next episode 👍

You need to back out the engine mounts at the rear so the engine will fit between them. The lower rear mount goes in first not worrying about the other bolts lining up and pushing the long bolt in an moving the engine about will line it up so the long bolt passes through the frame on both sides. When thats in, use the trolly jack to lift the engine which will pivot around the lower rear mount and all the others will line up no problem. The Haynes Manual is pretty poor for this bike, but it does explain better than I have with a few pictures and diagrams on how to replace the engine. Might be worth investing in the manual, it will save you alot of pain and grief if you have not replaced a Blackbird engine before. Also shows you when and how to replace the throttle bodies, clutch slave cylinder etc. (would have shown you how to remove them prior to taking the engine out which may have saved you half a day)

Great video. If it was mine i would strip the whole bike, clean, repaint, lube and rebuild. You will learn alot and will be great content

Always have a good shop manuel of what I am working on.

Good series so far. It made me wince when you were lifting that engine out of the car though, if that fell on your foot you would be in a world of pain with just those trainers on.

I can't wait to see the next video 🤣🤣 I am really glad your doing this project, I can't wait to buy a super blackbird

A platform Jack on a skateboard works well - as does lowering the frame over the engine as someone else has said.. It's easier to remove the throttle cables at the throttle than at the throttle bodies. Use a hot air gun to soften old inlet rubbers. I'm enjoying this series - I work on older bikes and can feel your pain ! Your missus is more helpful than mine 🙂

I can see how attempting this on your own for the first time can be daunting, but good for you for having a go. Thats how you learn. Trolly jacks aren't the best to use for this but you can do it if you persevere. Use a ratchet strap over the top of the frame and under the engine whilst on the jack and as you pump the handle adjust the straps so it holds the engine in place . If I knew where you was I'd gladly come help you free of charge. I've Done hundreds of motorcycle engine swaps.

Got your hands full here bro but persevere you’ll get there 👍🏻

could have given her the gloves :P

I always have bits of wood to help too, like 3x2 etc, you could have given the poor girl some gloves for her hands 😀

I know your pain. I had to do this before by myself. Get it close with the jack, wrap a ratchet strap around the frame and engine, and raise the whole thing up by tightening the strap. Worked for me in the past. Good luck mate.

I get why people are worried but the only way to learn is by doing. Admittedly I started on a couple 600's doing engine changes and learnt a great deal. Most recent was overhauling my zx12r and I'm not a qualified mechanic just an enthusiast. Fair play to him for giving it a go, hope it works out 🤙🏻

Yeah that struggle was painful. But no need to strip the bike further. Get some quality ratchet straps and use the frame to your advantage. Sling the engine in the straps from the frame, with a strap front and back. Between using those to tilt the engine and the jack to support the weight you will have a much higher chance of getting the mounting bolts aligned...especially using the straps for finer adjustment. Maybe view a few Millyard vids on here too. He's achieved an awful lot single handed with the odd brew and a cupcake.

Fun project! You can hang the engine instead of lifting it up with a trolley jack. Or I believe I have seen another comment saying remove the forks to lower the bike on it: do this method only if you have paddock stand or your stand will fold back in or go off balance on one side.

Iv used a trolley jack to fit engines a few times, makes it easier using a bit of wood on top of the jack, can notch the wood to sit better on the jack too. Another way iv seen it done is laying the bike on its side but I don't think I'd fancy lifting a big bike like that up from the ground

Really enjoying your videos lad ,your doing what most lads wouldn't even attempt ,just walking away when it gets on top of you to much is the right thing to do ,have a think about it and get back on the horse again ,that normally works for me with the added roaring and screaming at the bike ,the very best of luck to you and fair play to your helper ,no way would my wife give a hand like that .

Get the back motor mount(which is the lowest) aligned and bolt up but leave loose enough to move .....then just lift the front of the motor up...the back mount acts like a hinge.....align your holes and bolt up.

Try putting the rear bottom engine bolt in first, then jack the engine up, to align the other bolts

Love your enthusiasm for your project. When I was looking for mine (wanted something to commute 100 mile round trip) I found a 1998 carb with 32K for £1400 running and road legal, that I rode home. At one time it had had some money spent on it as it had titanium nuts and bolts and upgrade brake system, but It was pretty neglected by the previous owner and the oil looked like chocolate sauce, coolant grey in colour, and regulator/rectifier that failed after 2000K. So I have had to do a lot of major service work and replaced many parts, fluids, filters, bearings, chain, spockets, rear shock, stator, R/R, brake pads etc. and with plenty still left to change. But after a year of fettling and completed 6000k miles she is still running and goes like a train and smoother and quicker than ever and only once been parked up for a couple of weeks while waiting for the rear shock (sudden failure). Persevere you will not be disappointed! These are great bikes, quite easy to work on, easy to ride and still very relevant in modern traffic with nothing under £20K going to even get close to the performance.

Personally I’d use a pallet trolley jack and a few blocks of wood. But like the guy in the top comment said, I’d get all major maintenance and cleaning out of the way!

I just did an engine swap for my black bird a couple weeks ago. What I found is putting in the lower engine mount rod in frist and than swing the engine up inline with the upper mounts works a treat. I hope this helps if you haven't managed to get it in just yet.

I had some amazing years on my blackbird. Just an incredible bike. I bought it from new in 2003 and took it to the Isle of man TT. Great project. It will be a project I will do in the future.

So close! You got this Reminds me of somthing I would do, could buy a engine hoist but I think I know a way it will work, fair play to the Mrs, the its heavy mate made me laugh, just making sure she knows what to expect haha

i would make a solid cradle for the engine, some 2 by 4's them drop the frame over it. but first clean all the parts, you have the best access right now.

Your missus had no idea what she let her self in for

I should also say I'm enjoying watching.

Really interesting to watch, love the fact you let your poor girlfriend struggle on without any gloves, but to be fair, she isn't afraid to get stuck in and help. Looking forward to see this progress, there's a lot of corrosion on the frame though, I wonder if it would be a good idea to at least clean it up, treat with rust inhibitor and a squirt of paint over the top whilst access is easier? Keep at it buddy, we're all behind you 👍

I still think you should look for another Blackbird in better condition and using your current Honda as a parts bike. The spare engine was worth picking up for future use no matter what you do with the wreck you are trying to repair. Again, best of luck with the project.

Frame had rust spots, get yourself a manual for it and break it down enough to clean up the frame while engine is out..... Big projects tackle one thing at a time, looking at the whole picture can overwhelm you....state of mind.... Good work, looking forward to see it run again...

Strip it all down nuts and bolt rebuild get the frame and swing arm powered coated. Few mates over to help put the engine in and bosh good to go

Do your swingarm bolt first mate.this helps line every thing else up.i use this with big motors and I just use blocks of wood and a trolley Jack.good luck.

We have all been there, it came off ok, but why won't it go back on? 😂. Sat here laughing cos I have been in the nearly the same position and know exactly how you feel. You're taking on a massive challenge and loads of respect for that. Keep up the great content.

Put the engine on it’s side on an old piece of carpet. Then manoeuvre the frame onto the engine might need to take the handle bars off to get the frame to lie straight on the engine.

Have you not loosened the 2 rear engine spacers on the R/H side of the frame? Doing so would give you plenty of wiggle room to line the engine mounts up. outer caslelated lock nut requires a special socket tool but can be loosened with a drift/punch. Good luck and looking forward to the next episode !!

Lots of positivity in the comments, but sadly I am reading to unintentional negativity as well. I would ask for people with "experience" to use it to give solutions if they have it. don't wave around your "experience" like a blunt tool. Just be nice or be quiet, I want to see this guy succeed in his own deffinition.

Lots of smart comments from people with a lot of experience here mate I'd contemplate taking their advice.

Hey buddy 😊 finally the moment is here love from Nepal 🇳🇵🇳🇵

Done this before but with my Kawasaki zx12r... Take the forks off and lower the frame onto the engine... SOOOO MUCH EASIER AND FASTER! good luck buddy

Hold onto her brother 👌🍻

The way I did was use swing arm spools, frame the engine using 2x4s so the engine didnt need any support, was by itself, removing frame, painting frame and reassembling everything back, I could do all by myself without help

great video, love to see you give that bb some love. Hopefully it all works out!!

One suggestion would be to make some temporary wooden dowels that taper at the end, say 6 of them that are almost the same diameter as the mounts. Place the dowels in the holes to hold the engine in place as you line up the other holes. Then remove the dowels one at a time as you insert the engine bolts. If the dowels are narrow at one end and a reasonable fit at the other it should be possible to hold the block accurately enough to insert the actual bolts. Perhaps place some blocks around the wheels to help stop the bike shifting around so much....just a suggestion I am no expert. Good progress despite the set back.

It would be worth hiring an engine hoist for a day or two and it would allow you position the bike over the engine and with suitable strops/rope wrapped around it, lift it into position. I bought a lift off eBay specifically for this job on a ZZR1100 and I know how heavy these engines are when you're lifting them on your own! Good luck buddy, as the blackbird (or should I say blackbirds - I own 2) is my most favourite bike of all of my collection.

keep going,i was willing you both on.

Hi just watched your video. I had a similar situation to yours and found it to be easier to lay the bike frame down on its side and install the engine on its side. You have finer adjustments for positioning because you aren’t wrestling with unnecessary weight. You can use the longest bolts to help guide and position the engine too. Once tightened. Then you can lever the bike upright again. Hope this helps. 😅

That woman is an absolute star.

Gloves boots saves fingers and toes. Good luck mate enjoy watching

Its not a mistake that bike is fantastic it has an unbustable engine well done try the back first

I put a honda vf1000fe in last year by myself never done it b4 in the same manner as you and your girlfriend, lots of patience few swear words and got it done very satisfying but now up for sale and buying a blackbird.

Slide the engine from the car on wood, think it through first and make life easier for yourself, wood axle stands, nice video don't give up you've got this👍