First Start Attempt – K4 Project (Advice Welcome!)

[Yuppie_88 (Luke)]

Hi everyone,

I’m getting close to attempting the first proper start on my K4. I bought it as a non-runner from DK Motorcycles - it did fire briefly on Easy Start at the time. I’m a novice, but really enjoying the learning process and taking my time with it.

Before I hit the starter, I’d really appreciate any advice or tips from those with more experience. Here’s what I’ve done so far:

• Loom and electrics overhauled
• New battery
• New plugs (checked the spark across all four cylinders)
• Carbs fully rebuilt
• Cam chain tensioner adjusted
• Fresh oil in (I’ve held off on the filter for now - planning to get it warm, then dump the oil and do a full service)

My main concern at this point is making sure the oil is circulating properly on first start and how to check - though I’m sure there are other things I might be missing too.

Any input or suggestions before I go for it would be hugely appreciated. Thanks in advance!

[Bryanj]

Remove the plugs and spin over till the oil light goes out.
Remove tank and all tappet caps and inspect inside for oil flow, even leave off for first start and watch for oil spraying out

[Spitfire]

Bryan has nailed it, be patient though, mine took ages for the oil light to go out, I started to suspect it was duff and was tempted to start it up but thankfully did not in the end.

Cheers

Dennis

[Johnny4428]

I remember putting mine on side stand and filling lower oil gallery. As Dennis says it will take a bit of turning over to fill up all oil ways before getting pressure.

[Yuppie_88 (Luke)]

Thanks everyone, I wouldn't have thought of this - super helpful.

The fresh oil was added around 10 months ago, I've noted that the oil tank level has dropped considerably (no visible oil leaks). I'm assuming this is because the oil has now worked it's way into the sump. Would it be preferable to drain the sump and add back into the oil tank or leave it as is?

[Johnny4428]

Good practice to drain sump after that length of time. I would reuse oil but I would pour through a strainer.

[SeanFD]

As above, but when you have the valve covers off, pour +/- 500ml of oil down from the top - divided across the 4 cylinders of course.

You didn't mention it, but I imagine you checked, cleaned and set the points and timing.

[Yuppie_88 (Luke)]

Just a quick update, thank you again for everyone's advice.

It runs and rides, I took a slow ride out on Sunday to Cannon Hall Farm near Barnsley for an ice cream! Here's a link to quick video of the first start https://youtube.com/shorts/h7t6eVguyjg?si=Y6qPpfkztvx-6jsJ

[Johnny4428]

Sounding good there Luke!👍

[Laverda Dave]

Well done👍. It sounds good on the pipe.

[neat street]

Nice, well done.