[Eliminator97]

Looking for some general input/advice.
I have a 97 Eliminator ZL600. Ive brought it to a couple of MC shops and they are saying ~$4,000 to fix it.
It does start (at least I think it will when I fix the starter won't stop problem). It was started and ran at VERY high RPM until I shut it off.
Is it worth fixing? I can do most of the work myself if I could diagnose the problems.
Also, can't find a service manual, at least one that is legible! The ones on CD are mostly just pics of pages with terrible lighting.
Appreciate any advice.
Regards

 

[WFO-KZ]

Most shops won't even work on older bikes because it gets so expensive.

I would fix the starter problem yourself, and go from there. As I recall you were going to test or replace the solenoid. That's pretty cheap and simple. Also keep searching for a manual. There has to be one out there somewhere.

 

[Eliminator97]

The second shop just didnt want to work on it. He said there were just too many bad experiences where even when he said the cost would be very high, the customers just got very angry and he lost customers. Cant say I blame him.

 

[WFO-KZ]

I think you are 100% correct. On top of that, younger mechanics have no clue about how older machines worked and they won't have any of the special tools needed. It all adds up to huge repair bills, so like I said, most shops just refuse the work.

For the $4000 quote you did get, you would be far better off to sell yours as a parts bike and use that money plus the $4000 you are not spending on repairs and just go and buy a bike the runs good.

 

[Kawasakian]

If you look at te value of that bike, in "Good" condition, around $1000, pristine, showroom condition, around $3000, which I truly doubt anyone would get. Do you have a lot of money into it? I hope not. In my minds eye, I wouldn't put a dime into it, and look for something running, drivable. There are so many motorcycles, especially at this time of the year for sale at great prices. These bikes weren't anything special, or headed towards collector's realms. Why bother with this bike? IMHO