Bringing an old girl back to life.....I hope!!

[skwurly1976]

I Recently "inherited" my Grandfathers c200 vintage Honda. In need of dating it, finding an owners manual, and generally figuring out where to start restoring it. It is "farm fresh", but I want to make a serious attempt to restore it. I have little experience in restoration, but i am willing to do the work or get the appropriate help for a proper restoration. I'm not too concerned of cost, or resale, as it has much sentimental value. I just dug the bike out today, and it's "farm fresh" HELP me if you can....Good vibes your way!

Brian

[skwurly1976]

And a few more....where do i start?...lol

[skwurly1976]

I don't have the proper tools to sandblast this thing so i am gonna get the frame restored. Then begin buying and installing piece by piece.

[Rock160]

look into electrolytic rust removal. It's easy and does not make the metal thinner. Uses battery charger, re-bar for a sacrificial anode, and water that is treated with washing soda.

[skwurly1976]

i looked into electrolytic rust removal, and it sounds like something i can do myself? what about pits and other small amounts of rust damage. there is lots of surface rust, but everything seems solid.

[Rock160]

i looked into electrolytic rust removal, and it sounds like something i can do myself? what about pits and other small amounts of rust damage. there is lots of surface rust, but everything seems solid.

Yes, it is as easy as you have read. This process seems to kill the rust and leaves bare metal after I brush off the black (phosphate?) coating. This process does not remove pits.

[skwurly1976]

What's the best way to deal with rust pits? Do I get them cleaned out with a wire brush, clean it up, and use some kind of body filler/compound....Some words of wisdom and experience are needed and appreciated!!