Happy 2012 to all. I trust everyone survived the snowy onslaught a few weeks back. I arrived in Langley/Slough/Heathrow just after this time, not like last year when I got waylayed. Won't say 'stuck' because I always enjoy a pint and eats at the Red Lion in Langley. Plus I was only delayed one day, as opposed to some of my fellow aviators who spent six or seven. I even managed some Christmas shopping in Slough, so no worries.
On to the main event. I have been restoring a 1978 DT175E for the last five years. Recovered from a junk yard down the road from where I live in Biloxi, Mississippi with basically the frame, harness and motor usable. All else has been replaced or refurbished. Got it running 3 years ago, but it wouldn't rev over 3000 rpm. Left it sit over the winter, carb varnished over and I lost interest for awhile.
While walking in Narita, Japan one early morning this past December a guy on a scooter went by. The smell and sound of a two-stroke was like ice water in the face! When I got home again, I bought a new carb, had the cylinder bored for a new piston, figured out the 'source coil deal' and got it to rev above 3000(manual has incorrect wiring diagram and doesn't even SHOW 2 source coils). Finally riding it after I don't know how many years cos I can't locate my original pics. Forgot how much fun this was/is!!
Richard