fiddlestix

Gday mate just joined myself might see ya round on the tarmac. Cheers Lance

Hi I've had 2 xj650 turbos since 1987 and have one and a half left. I've used them travelling interstate many times touring around OZ and love the ride when they are cooperating. I've got a green one presently and believe it or not seen a gold one too! I've used it for many years as a motorcycle courier usually on medium to long runs and I have had two turbos rebuilt. I can tell you they hate cold mornings! A friend of mine saw one ridden into a toilet block at Bathurst and when it stalled he set fire to it. Those who ride this beast for any length of time know it can be cantankerous. However if all is working well and the turbo is operating effeciently it can blow almost anything else into the weeds and definately keep up with larger machines.

Hi I've owned two turbos in my life both xj650 turbos and have had two rebuilds, without seeing your turbo in action I think it could be the turbo has blown internally and the oil is gathering at the lowest part of the bike ie the turbo, and trying to force itself out via the gaskets etc. Its good that you have checked the oil relief valve beceause that is a known leaking point. Besides difficulty in starting does it blow smoke as well coz that is a bad sign. If it is the turbo you probably have three options. Buy another turbo, rebuild or sell. I once bought a rolling chasis as well from a fellow courier who had the same issues as you and he put his xj650 turbo motor in a xj650 standard frame and changed the oil sump plate over hence bypassing the plumbing involved with the air intake. Also look on the NET and google Yamaha XJ650 Turbo and you should find a couple of guys there who describe their pain and their troubleshooting advice.