This Close To A Dream

[skinner]

You know the scene in field of dreams were Burt Lancaster says[ its like having your dream this close but passes you buy]
and then he ask [if it was possable if there was enough magic in the world to make it happen] when he had given up all hope and let it stay a dream. But he got his second chance to play. well I cant go into to much detail yet, but because of a few folks on this forum Im going to get my second chance. I had to say thanks for they know who they are.When I wink at the pitcher [if you saw the movie] youll know what I mean Ill post pictures. and info 30+ years Ive been dreaming youll understand soon.
I know a little soft for a hardend old guy but truly feel lucky.

[vintagemxr]

Skinner, if you're happy, we're happy. Best of luck all the way around.

the other Doug

[Sir Limpsalot]

Skinner, if you're happy, we're happy. Best of luck all the way around.

the other Doug

I couldn't have put it better. Skinner, I wish you well in your endeavours. And look forward to hearing all about it!

[Arby]

Hope it all works out skinner! It's OK for tough ol' guys to get excited 'bout a new venture!

Your new vintage tire supplier was at our ride in the Smokys last weekend. He seems to be pleased to be part of what you're putting together.

Good luck with it all!

RB

[panthercity]

Don't drag it out Skinner... spill the beans.

:D

[DarthRider]

Karma?:ricky:

[skinner]

Well Dave, Id like to think its Karma it must be the year was 1976 I belive I had been racing old Alf Hagon framed bike for a few years and was doing ok on gas.
Then I decided it was time to try nitro.First off I was running low 11s on gas, Pour in methonal and couldnt even get it to fire.
Got on to phone and talked to anyone who would listen,More volume bigger lines ect. Anyway after 2 weeks of no floats,3/8 lines run into bowls it fired but not well.back on phone.
Bigger jets,was using maukini at the time so ended up drilling 1/8 hole in main jet almost drilled out threads.It ran, off to track first run main jets broke off to thin at threads.
But ran 16mph faster than before smoked the clutch, smoked the tire, smoked my brakes,wobbled so bad on shutdown thought I was gonna crash.
Now I was close to making power,just needed to get my frame and running gear to hold it,5years later better but realized needed a frame that was built for it.
Called a few places,found a world class frame builder, got prices, ready to order,working on getting money together. Then life happend My girlfriend turned up preagnat.
So Like most of us back then did the right thing put racing on hold for just a little bit. Well got married 16 months later had another son,put racing on hold a little bit.
My sons were 1 1/2 2 3/4 wife said she couldnt do it anymore and left, me my boys, sold the bike Ill build another in a little bit.30 years 5 kids did the brady bunch with 2nd wifes 3 kids
10 yrs ago But always had the dream what if, I could have had that frame. So close.

[DarthRider]

Well geeze, if we could only find an old racing frame somewhere...:floet:

[isiahstites]

More details please...........

[skinner]

So heres the scoop leaving this weekend to go pick up Ed Maybry frames. Ive never met the man taking at least two of my sons with me.
Just unreal to me, To be able to put my hands on machine that Jack wilson ,Ed Maybry, worked on just to have been able to find them,
and be lucky enough to have met Dave on this site to help with the deal. To put back on the strip such a piece of history.

after Arby turned me on to tire guy to make slicks,and track guy letting me use track,and having all come together it was not looking good for me on frame.
And then this happened just fell in my lap.Maybe Dave can show you a few shots as Im worse than anyone on pictures.
Looks like dream is coming true.Perfect, now to see if I can get one up and running for event.but will display them all anyway.
I realy believe in this vintage racing thing, the Harley frame builder Is producing frames and we should be able to have some competative races in future.
My true goal with races is to rent tracks with races fees just to race not depending on spectater crowd track im at we could rent for 1000-1500 a
day so we could get together and race our bikes pretty cheap,gas and travel big expense now days.
Ill keep you posted on my new dream thanks Dave and Arby for all youve done.
Oh and by the way Ed is the guy I talked to about frames years ago and frames Im getting are the ones he sent me pictures of. Life is pretty cool sometimes.

[FryDaddy]

You meet the nicest people at the MC Cafe. That is such a great story, Skinner. Congratulations.

Terry

[panthercity]

The great Mandala... the wheel of life continues to turn.

[Donson]

I have been lucky enough to meet Ed two or three times, through Dave. You are in for a treat, Skiner! Ed is a real piece of History. I got Him to autograph a T-shirt for Me and it is dispalyaed in My shop. Ed and I both worked for Bell Helicopter, so I had heard of Him, seen His name on engineering paperwork, even before I met Dave. I took these pics last year, http[IMG]http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv21/bryanetta2009/KellerPeckerheads045.jpg
Above, center, Ed Mabry at His shop.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv21/bryanetta2009/KellerPeckerheads042.jpg
Above 256 MPH Record Bike
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv21/bryanetta2009/KellerPeckerheads061.jpg

[DarthRider]

Wayne, I think I am almost as thrilled over this as you are! Karma for sure, as I sees it! :webers:

Don, those are not the frames involved, they are rolling chassis that are upstairs in Ed's shop.

I had cataract surgery on my right eye yesterday, the left one in two weeks. My vision is still a little blurry from just getting back from the Doc's to check it out.
All is OK but I need to wait a couple of hours to post pics of the bikes and the "back story".

Way to go Wayne, this is really cool!

[Donson]

Mabry Racing Shop visit with Dave 2010. Ed was very gracious , and even supplied some cold beveridges!http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv21/bryanetta2009/KellerPeckerheads049.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv21/bryanetta2009/KellerPeckerheads047.jpghttp://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv21/bryanetta2009/KellerPeckerheads050.jpg

[Donson]

Glad the eye thing went ok, Dave, was the Doc able to fix your face?:)

[panthercity]

He's a Doctor, not a magician!

[Donson]

He's a Doctor, not a magician!

:041::041::041:

[DarthRider]

Here is a brief version of the story of the 3 bikes Wayne is acquiring from Ed Mabry...2 drag bikes and 1 Land Speed Racing bike: All set up for Triumph power of course!

Wayne, I have found several old 4" x 6" pics of all three bikes in action, the drag bikes at Green Valley Raceway in Fort Worth, c. 1982, the LSR bike at Bonneville, c. 1990. These will be part of a scanning project I'm planning for a *bunch* of old pics, I'll get them to you when I can.
Hey, did you know back in the olden days pictures actually came printed on nice paper, rather than just a bunch of pixels??

I've been helping Ed Mabry sell some of his retired and not-retired race bikes for a while. 4 down, 3 to go!
When Wayne joined the Cafe' and told us about himself and his vintage drag race project, and especially his love of Triumph motorcycles and Triumph racing back ground, I knew these bikes should be his. But they were not even for sale, and Ed won't sell his babies to just anybody. They must be Triumph True Believers, have a valid racing background and be committed to using only Triumph power in them...I found out about that the hard way!
Wayne more than "qualified" on all fronts...he had casually known Jack Wilson & Ed Mabry for a long time, followed their racing exploits for a long time and almost commissioned Ed to build him a drag race frame at one time, decades ago.
Ed almost got misty when I told him about Wayne and felt strongly that these historic motorcycles belonged with him and his sons. And Wayne nearly stroked out when he learned these bikes were now for sale...to the right person! Bikes he remembered from pictures he'd seen 30+ years ago!

The bikes are dirty and in dis-array, but are nearly complete rolling chassis, just waiting for clean-up, light rebuilding...and Triumph engines.
I want to be there when Ed sees pics of the completed bikes and when they are in action on drag strips and the Salt. That will complete the "adoption process" of Ed's babies leaving him and going to a new home where they will be loved. Sometimes it's way cool to see a grown man cry!
These bikes made history a long time ago and Wayne is committed to helping them make more history now.

http://mrcycle1.smugmug.com/Other/Mabry-Vintage/i-XQmjCBQ/0/M/mabry%20vintage%20011-M.jpg

I'll just copy the email I sent Wayne about the bikes...the one that made him start planning a trip to Texas and start achieving his dream.
GO WAYNE!


Hey Wayne -

OK, here's the poop on the Mabry Racing/Big 'D' Cycle/Team Triumph Texas drag bikes. I spent time with Ed yesterday and got pics of the bikes and more info on them.

I have included a few of the pics in this email, but you can see more at this website, which is my SmugMug photo storage site:
http://mrcycle1.smugmug.com/Other/Mabry-Vintage/16803568_hgwcjg#1267910811_QJwwJH7
You can click on any of them to enlarge them and several larger sizes can be selected as well, as you'll see when you click on one. Please feel free to copy any of them and use as you see fit.

The bikes are very dusty as you see but you can get a good idea of what is there. The older of the two is set up for 650 twins only, the newer one has "Mabry-Clever" adjustable motor mounts that will accommodate either a 650/750 twin or 750 triple, all Triumph of course! I don't know if either would accommodate a 500 twin or not, but I'm sure they could be modified if necessary.

Both bikes were run in normally aspirated form, probably gas & fuel. Ed could verify. It also appears both were also set up for fuel injection.
Both of them won many races and held/hold(?) numerous class/strip records & championships. The 650 is marked "IDBA" & "Dragbike". It holds multiple records in both; I don't know if they ran other drag associations or not.
The wheelie bar fits the 650/750 and maybe the 650 as well. The 3 into 1 racing exhaust system is for a triple in the 650/750 bike.

There is another bike, a Land Speed Racer, No. 603 that can be included AT NO COST with the sale of the 2 drag racers. Like the others, it is a "roller" with no engine but is set up for a Trident triple, fuel, turbo, partially streamlined. It does not have any records but was raced at Bonneville at least 2 years. It appears complete except there is no fairing. It was likely used on another bike. I'm sure this bike could also be modified to accommodate 500/650/750 twins as well.

None of the 3 have been crashed or "laid down". The bikes have all known parts, etc. with them and are in the pics, but any other parts we come across would of course be included. Copies of the drag bikes' records, etc. are included and I'm sure we can find some period photos of all three too.
All 3 bikes were campaigned by Mabry Racing/Big 'D' Cycle & Team Triumph Texas. Ed built the chassis, and the engines they ran were a collaboration between Jack & Ed. The drag bikes were ridden by Jon Minonno, Lee Manis and one by youngster (Now middle aged!) Jay McCurry. The LSR bike was ridden by Jon Minonno & Dickey Powell (Mike Kidd's crew chief in the AMA Class C flat track championship wars).
As you see, all three come with great pedigrees & provenance!
All of them have always been stored inside Ed's shop. The paint is in good shape, save the normal chips & scrapes of track use and could be touched up easy enough. Likewise there is almost no rust or corrosion on them, except for a little normal "Salt Gremlin" surface rust on the LSR bike.
The only damage to them is a hole in the windscreen of the 650 drag bike. This screen can be replaced by Gustafson in Florida.

The price of the bikes is $XXXX each for the two drag bikes, including the free LSR bike if you buy both. (This bike would also be priced at $XXXX if sold separately).
They are sold as-is, where-is at Mabry's shop in Fort Worth, although we would help all we could if you wanted to arrange for shipment rather pick up.

So, what do you think Wayne?

Thanks,
Dave

2 Drag bikes:
http://mrcycle1.smugmug.com/Other/Mabry-Vintage/i-qFFtqMP/0/M/mabry%20vintage%20020-M.jpg

http://mrcycle1.smugmug.com/Other/Mabry-Vintage/i-LjVjGB9/0/M/mabry%20vintage%20010-M.jpg

http://mrcycle1.smugmug.com/Other/Mabry-Vintage/i-hjD2mRt/1/M/mabry%20vintage%20012-M.jpg

http://mrcycle1.smugmug.com/Other/Mabry-Vintage/i-Z4MXtRL/0/M/mabry%20vintage%20018-M.jpg

http://mrcycle1.smugmug.com/Other/Mabry-Vintage/i-hgLsmVR/0/M/mabry%20vintage%20021-M.jpg

LSR bike:
http://mrcycle1.smugmug.com/Other/Mabry-Vintage/i-QJwwJH7/0/M/mabry%20vintage%20023-M.jpg

http://mrcycle1.smugmug.com/Other/Mabry-Vintage/i-ztkZW6g/0/M/mabry%20vintage%20026-M.jpg

http://mrcycle1.smugmug.com/Other/Mabry-Vintage/i-cvWJxMH/1/M/mabry%20vintage%20027-M.jpg

http://mrcycle1.smugmug.com/Other/Mabry-Vintage/i-SGDjqKz/1/M/mabry%20vintage%20022-M.jpg

[panthercity]

This is SO cool! Brings a tear to my eye.

Skinner, keep us posted on trip details. I might have to ride into town to see this come down.

[skinner]

Well what you think guys? Still a little shocked, called Ed this morning and Dave to see if he could make it but with his eye said could not, wish he could be there.
Looks if all goes as planned monday at 9 or 10 in the morning at Eds shop Ed seemed happy when I asked if I could keep the same paint,would be a shame to cover up that history.
hope to make him proud, and bikes are no longer for sale as my four sons have been told already have a nice little 750 motor to dial it in on, the more built up one will be put in after.
hope to have one up for event.
Oh by the way anyone know how to find old IDBA records have searched but with no luck

[DarthRider]

This is SO cool! Brings a tear to my eye.

Skinner, keep us posted on trip details. I might have to ride into town to see this come down.
Yes, you need to do that!

[vintagemxr]

Really cool, Skinner. A big congrats on your long held dream coming true. Like everyone else I'll be looking forward to seeing pictures of the bikes looking their best again out on the track.

the other Doug

[Deans BMW]

The Motorcyclist Cafe, perhaps small in numbers but oh so large in impact.

Thanks Dave and good luck Skinner.

[Sir Limpsalot]

The Motorcyclist Cafe, perhaps small in numbers but oh so large in impact.

Thanks Dave and good luck Skinner.

Couldn't have put that better myself.

Si.

[Arby]

Hey skinner, this thread keeps getting better and better! Wish I had some more contacts up my sleeve for you.

Hope you can make it all work out! I'll be keeping an eye on this thread for latest developments.

Can't wait to see one of those frames all cleaned up and running , doing a burnout at your first vintage meet!!:041:

RB

[DarthRider]

More Karma...
I don't really want to talk about money in this and won't mention specifics but it's too good a part of Wayne's story to leave out. And I'm sure he won't mind.

As I mentioned the 2 drag bikes and the LSR bike were not previously for sale. We had been concentrating on finding good new homes for Ed's latest generation LSR bikes. And I knew Ed had a particular fondness for the drag bikes. He spent about 25 years building top-shelf, professional, top-fuel car dragsters & roadster but had not built a motorcycle racing frame until he and his buddies got into it in the 70s.

The older of the two drag bikes, that accommodates only 650 & 750 twins and has the square section main frame backbone tube, was his first ever racing bike frame. Lessons learned from that highly successful bike were incorporated in the "similar but different" later frame that accommodates both twins and the 750 triple Triumph Trident engine and uses a round section backbone. It was also very successful and the racing campaigns bonded Ed's relationship with Jack Wilson of Big 'D' Cycle and the guys of the Team Triumph Texas. Jack was one of the best Triumph engine tuners in history and his engines contributed greatly to the success of the team.
These were the only two drag bikes Ed ever built, as he became totally committed to the Team's Land Speed effort in the mid-80s.

The No. 603 LSR bike was never successful at Bonneville so Ed was not really "attached" to it. His "Gen. 1" LSR bikes had seen moderate success at Bonneville and set a few records. They were sort of modified drag race/road race/LSR designs with a number of Mabry tricks thrown in. He had records on the hi-190s and low-200s with them but wanted to go fast, really fast. So he re-thought the entire design.

No. 603 was sort of a "Gen. 1.5" design, midway between the Gen. 1 & what would become the Gen. 2 configurations. His dual-engine & single engine Gen. 2 bikes were far different from all the fast "conventional wisdom" bikes and were quietly laughed at and derided by the "fast guys". Until they220 and 210 "right off the trailer"! The laughing stopped as the bikes were developed and continued to go faster, ultimately 262 and 225, respectively, and with many records. The Gen 2 bikes were longer, used rigid rear suspension and most dramatically had flat bottoms with 1.5" ground clearance. The streamlining, as allowed in the "Partially Streamlined" classes was also very different, stretching the rule book to the limit. There were many other "Mabry designs" that allowed very easy maintenance & repair, a weight/ballast system that produced perfect fore & aft, and side to side balance, much improving traction & handling. And rear "winglets" with negative dihedral that produce major down force & stability with very little drag. The only "electronic aid" was the super-hot Mabry designed & built ignition.

Meanwhile No. 603 (the bike Wayne is getting) was run for 2 years but was of an earlier design and suffered from its "2nd string" status while most of the tuning & development work was poured into the 2 Gen. 2 bikes. Then it was retired in 1992 & cannibalized for a few parts needed for the next Gen. 2 bike. And gathered dust for the next 29 years in Mabry's attic until it became part of the "Skinner deal".

Back to the 2 drag bikes...Wayne had known of these bikes since they were campaigned in the 70s & 80s. He knew of Ed & Jacks racing & building/tuning prowess and dreamed for years of owning them or something similar.
Wayne & Ed had exchanged correspondence in the 80s about Ed building a bare frame for Wayne. It never worked out and with Ed's memory these days being what it is, did not remember Wayne at first, until I gave him some details.

As I said, those bikes were not for sale but when I "met" Wayne on the Cafe' and when we exchanged many emails, PMs and phone calls, it became clear that Wayne should have the 2 drag bikes, for sale or not! Ed is very sensitive & careful about where any of his racers go, especially the ones he is particularly fond of, as with the drag bikes. So I had to approach it very carefully with him. Should I first suggest selling the bikes and then explain what a great "candidate" Wayne is, or first tell him about Wayne and let him connect the dots? Ed is a great friend and I love the guy so I certainly didn't want to manipulate him, or be perceived as doing so.
But when I told him all about Wayne, his Triumph drag racing history, his efforts to create a vintage drag association...and that he was looking for a really good frame, Ed was very interested in him. Then I told him that years ago Wayne had gotten some good tuning advise from Jack...that alone gave Wayne much cred with Ed as he knows Jack did not waste time talking to "dip-shits or piss-willies" (Jack's term for squids & the unworthy).

Then I asked Ed if the drag bikes were going to be for sale. After a moment I saw the light bulb go off behind Ed's eyes and he said, "Well I hadn't even thought about that, but I think it may be time. But only if the go to a good home!" "You mean like Wayne Skinner?" I replied. He thought a bit and said, "Maybe..."
So I told him all I knew about Wayne, his profession, race history, family devotion and sons to help with crewing & their love of Triumphs, and that the bikes would never be separated or sold and would be passed down to the sons someday and continue to be raced. And that Wayne was interested in drag racing one and converting the other to LSR duty. Ed's light got brighter.

He said he did not want to sell the bikes individually and was pleased that Wayne wanted both. He asked how much I thought they were worth and I said, "Ed, if you asked what they are worth no one could afford them." He agreed and said he was thinking about a really low price, to see them stay together, be raced again and be in a good, loving, Triumph home! He would separate them only if he had to and I had no idea what Wayne wanted to spend.
We discussed it a bit more and he came up with a number that I agreed was rock-bottom low and very fair. Then he said if Wayne bought them both he would give him the No. 603 LSR bike...free!

Wayne actually thought the price was too low, but a deal's a deal and the free LSR bike was a real deal clincher.

I'd give anything to be there Monday morning when Karma closes her cosmic loop on this deal but I can not. But it is enough to know that this deal, 40 years in the making, has come to a perfect end.

Go fast & safe Wayne, you and the boys. We will meet another time!

[panthercity]

I plan to be on Weaver Street Monday to photo-document the whole deal!

Say, Dave, did I ever tell you about Ed and the "Stevens & Venables AA/FD" on 303 in Pantego at 0300?

[DarthRider]

I plan to be on Weaver Street Monday to photo-document the whole deal!

Say, Dave, did I ever tell you about Ed and the "Stevens & Venables AA/FD" on 303 in Pantego at 0300?
Bob, that's great! Can't wait to see the photos.

Yep, I know about the top fueler in Arlington, but I bet the Cafe' folks would love to hear it.
Maybe a new thread on Mabry stories? If you start it I'll contribute.

[Donson]

What a great story!

[FryDaddy]

It doesn't get any better than this. Thanks Dave for giving us the background and for being Karma's conduit. I too can't wait to see the Bob's pictures and hear some more Mabry stories.

Terry

[panthercity]

Skinner, let me make sure I've got this straight. You'll be at Ed's around 9 or 10 Monday morning, May 9th?

Lookin' forward to meeting you!

[panthercity]

First round of photos:

http://www.panthercity.net/Skinner/Cafe/images/image001.jpg
Comin' down from Ohio in a Chebby truck and the neighbor's trailer.

http://www.panthercity.net/Skinner/Cafe/images/image002.jpg
Wayne (Skinner) Master Ed and Drew, Wayne's son.

http://www.panthercity.net/Skinner/Cafe/images/image003.jpg
Ed Mabry, This Is Your Life! a special album of photos, news clippings and much, much more.

http://www.panthercity.net/Skinner/Cafe/images/image004.jpg
The three old soldiers.

http://www.panthercity.net/Skinner/Cafe/images/image005.jpg
"Oh, `bout five pounds I'd guess..."

http://www.panthercity.net/Skinner/Cafe/images/image006.jpg
Coast `er down the slope and right onto the trailer!

http://www.panthercity.net/Skinner/Cafe/images/image007.jpg
This one will go right here.

(more)

[panthercity]

http://www.panthercity.net/Skinner/Cafe/images/image010.jpg
Vroom! VROOM!

http://www.panthercity.net/Skinner/Cafe/images/image011.jpg
Now boarding on the South concourse...

http://www.panthercity.net/Skinner/Cafe/images/image014.jpg
"Boy this thing is light! Pushes REAL easy."

http://www.panthercity.net/Skinner/Cafe/images/image017.jpg
Vroom! VROOM! V-R-O-O-M!

http://www.panthercity.net/Skinner/Cafe/images/image018.jpg
Last one in.

http://www.panthercity.net/Skinner/Cafe/images/image019.jpg
Ready for their Easter to make history again!

Good luck guys! It was a pleasure meeting you. Take good care of those bikes now, ya hear!

[Donson]

That is beyond cool!

[Deans BMW]

That is great Bob, thanks for the pics. I have been to Ed's shop with Dave some years ago.

Wayne.....what a find

Take care of those babies.

[DarthRider]

Bob, thanks so much for taking & posting the pics, it was almost - almost - as good as being there.
Wayne was so excited he called me right before he got to Ed's, while he was there and twice on the way home...so far!
This is really cool...and Ed's happy too. :bananas:

[panthercity]

Dave, after all you put into this deal, I'm just sorry you timed your eye surgery so poorly.

In the next couple of days I'll put up a page each on Ed's shop, the attic and 602.

Oh, and I'll see your parachute story and raise you an electric mini-bike!1607

[DarthRider]

Thanks Bob, I'm looking forward to it.
That mini-bike is...shocking!

[Donson]

Also seen in Ed's shop.......

http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv21/bryanetta2009/KellerPeckerheads058.jpg

[skinner]

Well we made it 76 hours and 2633 miles one ticket $20 dollars and one little rain storm.
Id do it again in a heart beat. such and oppertunity given to me. Every time I stopped for gas Id go pay and there would be a guy or two around bikes.
cool!, you ride those? whats this? Hard for me to really put into words really glad the chance was given to me.
Great pictures too, much better than I could have done great to see you Bob wish you could be at my vintage meet.
I hope to have one bike up and running a twin I think.
I always dreamed of owning one of Eds frames, but never dreamed of owning one of Eds personal bikes much less three.
These bikes are a part of Ed.His history,his personality,his dedication to Triumphs and racing.
Pretty emotional cup of coffee this morning sittting between these bikes.
So much more than I ever dreamed about,and to talk to Ed to have his approval means the world to me.
My one son that came with me was in such awe, he will never forget Ed and his shop,good for another generation.
When we were unloading bike he took so much care and was telling other family members be careful dont hurt this or that,
he would not let anyone push bikes or carry painted parts in basment so cool to see in todays youth.
for all whom helped thanks and Ill keep you posted on progress,I think Ill go have another cup of coffee

[DarthRider]

Welcome home Wayne, I'm happy all is well.
I talked with Ed yesterday and he is happy as a clam about the whole deal! He said he really enjoyed talking with you and liked your son.
He seemed very confident that his "babies" have gone to the right home.
Did you see Bob's pics on page 1 of this thread?

[skinner]

well started on first twin looking at parts needed and so on think Ill take completly apart and put back together only way to truly Know a machine, check wheel bearings new fork seals tires and so on.
Ill call the square tube bike[ first twin] because it was Eds first drag bike frame he built.
I found Ed made Billit alum triple trees for this bike drilled the neck post for weight, when I took off fairing there was the deadman cord with piece of leather to put between points as kill switch hanging on trees cool hang that up.
Im wondering if Ed modified forks or springs, took off gas tank new petcocks in order,tank is clean but will fit new gasket on monza cap,found out has air tank in frame on first twin, cool
Its like xmas opening up presants looking to see what you find the way parts fit are unreal perfect,like they were grown there.taking my time, twin 2 was just looking at exhaust, it fits right thru frame tubes in front and underneath
has special bracket for spring hanger on bottom,cool,this frame can fit twin but has some special mods for triple, air in frame also,needs to stay a triple.cool
As I work on these bikes I try and think of Ed figuring out parts and building them,I missed that but I can learn from his work.

[DarthRider]

You're going to have way too much fun with these bikes Wayne!:beer:

[Sir Limpsalot]

I'm thrilled to watch all this unfold, too cool for words.

Wayne, please do us one small favour: when they're finished add a "Motorcyclist cafe" decal to each bike. They're small, discreet and classy (and available from Dean!) and add the perfect finishing touch.

Good luck with it all, report back often - please.

Cheers,
Si.

[vintagemxr]

I hope you and your sons have countless happy hours working together on those bikes. Sounds like another generation has learned that there are things more fun than make believe video games.

the other Doug

[panthercity]

Wayne, it sounds like you're doin' all the good. I'm sure Ed is tickled!

[skinner]

for sure a motorcyclist cafe decal is in order and when Im considered a peckerhead one of those stickers would be nice .another funny note in 70s before I new Ed I bought a fairing and put on my Triumph, phirania, Never saw another one like it
Could not find it anywere, well over coffee this morn looked on inside of one I took off, same as I bought years ago both of them.cool

[DarthRider]

More Karma?

Could not find it anywere, well over coffee this morn looked on inside of one I took off, same as I bought years ago both of them.cool

Wayne if you were not very obviously a Peckerhead I would never have hooked you up with Mabry. He has advanced degrees in Peckerheadery and has taught many classes...See "Ed Mabry Stories" thread!
I'll see about that sticker.

[skinner]

more karma granfathers favorit term to call me in fun,peackerhead, todays find oil tanks, you should look inside one of these
alum tubes welded to inside then taped with fittings from out side interior braces welded inside
my wife looks at me and rolls her eyes says, its just a oil tank, hardly.

[DarthRider]

His work is truly amazing.
Have you checked the welds on the frames? Hi son told me the welds were actually much better before too many years of welding took their toll on his eyes.

[skinner]

Im going to get a camara that I can use before I put bike back together, most of us only saw bike as one piece complete. There are so many little masterpieces, the detail, Like the front down tube on frames is 3 different sizes stepped down and hidded in front spoiler.
the welds dont even look man made Ill show close up,This mornings coffee find, Eds tag on twin 2 rear section not to many of these out there, lucky me.

[DarthRider]

Wayne, I think that 3-diameter stepped-down frame fits with one of his Mabryisms:
"If it breaks make it stronger, if it doesn't break make it lighter."

The strength of chromoly, the lightness of a spiderweb...

How much longer do you think it took him to build it that way, rather just use single diameter tubing like everyone else in the world would have done?
And why? That's the easy part...
Because he could.
Because he wanted too.
Because he loved his craft.
Because he knows the Gods live in the details.
Because these bikes weren't toys, they were intended to win races & championships. Which they did.
And now they're yours...congratulations!

[skinner]

well a little different feeling when I work on the first twin bike as Eds passing is still with me but I know hed like what Im doing. took front end completly apart down to bearings in neck,latest find is that he ran the down tubes and square backbone right thr neck then welded on inside.
That ment that he had to machine holes exactly at precise angle a square hole know one would ever see it but strong all greased and cleaned new seals and put back together. oh and taking off rear fender oil tank and fender as one unit welded together,fewer mounts Id say.
fast Thriumph award at drag meet will be the maybry award

[DarthRider]

fast Thriumph award at drag meet will be the maybry award

Yes! Most excellent Wayne...that will be mentioned at his memorial service next Monday.
Details on that very soon.

[vintagemxr]

well a little different feeling when I work on the first twin bike as Eds passing is still with me but I know hed like what Im doing. took front end completly apart down to bearings in neck,latest find is that he ran the down tubes and square backbone right thr neck then welded on inside.
That ment that he had to machine holes exactly at precise angle a square hole know one would ever see it but strong all greased and cleaned new seals and put back together. oh and taking off rear fender oil tank and fender as one unit welded together,fewer mounts Id say.
fast Thriumph award at drag meet will be the maybry award

I expect like others I'm struck by how this worked out, some of Ed's bikes going to the right guy at just the right time. I hope the rest of his machinery goes to similarly worthy owners.

the other Doug

[skinner]

Dont take this the wrong way but I know Ed was laughing at me today, I was cleaning the little breather tank admiring the work and I filled lower tube in parts cleaner filled it up and nothing came out turned it around and just a little I could feel it was almost full but fluid would not come back out the pipe.
so after I removed drain plug and more experimenting with fluid I realized that all the pipes go into a separet tank inside of the tank just. wow but if he could have seen me, which he did, I know he was laughing,rookie

[DarthRider]

all the pipes go into a separet tank inside of the tank just. wow
What is the purpose of the little inner tank?
Wayne, I suspect you are going to find a book-full of those little Mabry tricks in those 3 bikes!

[skinner]

well he ran gas tank vent to breather tank rocker box vent Id say and had engine vent from bottom seperat tank on inside kept oil and fuel from running back into engine when not running.That way you could run lines from underneath so they would look clean. Such details, but the work and thought in that tank,

[Sir Limpsalot]

Wayne, thanks for sharing this info. Ed was plainly a man with huge engineering talent and the skills to make it all work. I love the idea of the "Ed Maybry Trophy". Good man.

[skinner]

Well guys Ive got the first twin put back together took every single nut and bolt apart cleaned and reassembled.
Have to make right side motor mount but have a pattern from other bike,
looks good a few chips and scuffs in paint but I decided to leave as is.no cracks in frame,had two bolts broke off in barns rear hub but got out no problem.
need to buy tires,chain,and brake parts no master cylinder and caliper beyond repair but nice and looking good a real gem.
Will start on second twin tonight do the same process take apart and clean new shoes, brakes on this one so Ill see if I can rebuild.
I have only one engine to use right now so bike with needing least amount of parts Ill put motor in for drag meet.
Im working on pictures soon Ed would be proud hope to do burnout by june 25 if all goes well
Im wondering were Ed got all those speical bolts kinda look like aviation bolts hmmm, sure wish I had his bolt box in back room lol
Dave if there is a chance to get any pictures of bikes that might help.
Does anyone know if they ran magnetos because there is no battery box?

[DarthRider]

Wayne, I don't know what kind of ignition they ran. Hopefully, Jon Minonno will be at Ed's service and I can ask him.
Ed worked at Bell Helicopter and got a lot of fasteners out there, that's probably where those came from.
I'll see what pics I can find of the drag bikes in my old albums when I get back...leaving in AM.
Good luck!

EDIT: I have a story about those 2 bikes I'll post when I get back from Ft. Worth.

[skinner]

well got brakes working almost ready to put motor in waiting on tires I look in basement and feel like I have the mona lisa here gives you a hole new way of thinking like one friend told me, Theres a man who loved his craft, I could not agree more,nice to have my hands on them Thanks Ed

[panthercity]

<LIKE>

[DarthRider]

well got brakes working almost ready to put motor in waiting on tires I look in basement and feel like I have the mona lisa here gives you a hole new way of thinking like one friend told me, Theres a man who loved his craft, I could not agree more,nice to have my hands on them Thanks Ed
Wayne, I told you on the phone but I'd like the others to hear it too.
Ed called me a few minutes after you guys left with the bikes. He was totally pleased with the whole deal and said he could not think of a better home for them. He was so happy that they would be owned, raced and preserved by "Triumph guys".

Wayne, I'd like to thank you too for helping make the last week or so of our friend's life a happier time. I think it may have energized him too and so does his family, as he got busy and finished some small projects he'd been putting off for a long time!

Remember Ed's shop cat, Otis?
He's sitting in my lap purring, as I type this.

[panthercity]

You're a good man Dave, and a stout friend.

Sam http://www.panthercity.net/Animals/Sam.jpg says, "Take good care of Otis."

[Donson]

Is this a motorcycle forum or a damn cat forum?!:039:

[DarthRider]

You're a good man Dave, and a stout friend.

Sam says, "Take good care of Otis."
Don't worry Sam, Otis is cool. He's alternating between exploring the house & shop, trying to get outside, and spitting at Beezer. He's already picked his secret sulking & nap spot.
He & Beezer will work it out, and Otis will be outside hunting coyotes & Diamondbacks in about a week.
Nobody in Ed's family could take him, Betty & I wanted him and he & I already had a head-scratching relationship, so he has a new home.
I think he misses Ed, I know I do.

"Hey Dumb-ass, where's Ed? And my lunch!?"
http://mrcycle1.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Mabry/604-026/1090089901_fago5-L.jpg

[skinner]

Well as long as were talking cats, I have one that works on bike with me bites and plays just as otis did when I was in Eds shop, Its suppose to be my daughters but stays right with the bikes in basement. Wish I could have had one of Eds bikes up for his memorial

[DarthRider]

Wish I could have had one of Eds bikes up for his memorial

The first time it beats a BSA or Harley will be Ed's real memorial!

[Sir Limpsalot]

The first time it beats a BSA or Harley will be Ed's real memorial!

So, were BSA the real "enemy" then? I do know you were either a "Triumph" guy, or a "BSA" one, back then. And I assume Harleys were the enemy of both?

[skinner]

well personally its not the machine but the mouth of the guy riding the machine Im not one to knock anyones ride but being triumph rider for 43 years Ive heard it all from the big mouth and to tell the truth I love to beat those guys.
Ill have a little harder time on strip than street but have plans for some really good engines and races coming up.
The one thing about racing a Triumph is the general puplic thinks there slow,the best day I ever had was at a bike nite poker run 300 plus bikes on a 75 mile run ,curvy roads straights flat out end of nite I was voted best all around bike only Triumph bonny there.
Honestly wipped 3/4 or more machines and riders in different conditions. but was a little wild want to take it back to the strip.

[DarthRider]

So, were BSA the real "enemy" then? I do know you were either a "Triumph" guy, or a "BSA" one, back then. And I assume Harleys were the enemy of both?
Si, honestly Ed was never anti-anything (well, except terrorists!)...and losing a race.
He was a Triumph guy through and through and I guess you could call him a non-discriminatory racer: He loved to beat 'em all!
And mostly did.

[skinner]

Well put dummy motor in or working on it somthing not right cant seem to get motor mounts lined up right many hours so far taking my time walking away not forcing,missing somthing somewere.looks awsome I dont have the quik snaps for lower body work,tried to take ones off LSR bike but to big,but when I took number plate off there was hand painted 60 on body,So Im gona run first twin naked till I find snap screws,just have to work on mounts,Talk to me Ed,I know Its right in front of me Ill find it

[DarthRider]

Wayne I can't help you on the motor mounts but I imagine the fasteners you are looking for a "Dzus" fasteners.
Ed used a lot of aircraft bits in his bikes, also car stuff and those racers use a lot of Dzus.
Race car & aircraft suppliers should have them.

[panthercity]

Wayne, if you can't find `em locally, try http://www.aircraftspruce.com/

[skinner]

well sat back took engine out of frame ,cleared my head and sat down to ponder I new I was doing somthing wrong but you have to approach these differently, so I loosened the bottom mount and put motor back in and just bolted it right up, perfectYou just leave the bottom mount in frame loose while you mount all the other mounts simple.just never had one, boy looks real good called a few places on fastners and they didnt have that small like 3/16 I think have plenty 1/4 but no small dont want to cut or grind on frame so Ill wait till I find some but in mean time Ill run naked and display bodywork . Youd like to see the work on frame anyway as body work hides it.Cool

[DarthRider]

Wayne, had you ever seen 2-position motor mounts like those? Me neither!

[skinner]

Sorry havent got back to you dave been busy, The first twin frame only has mount for twin motor so I just left it tight when I put in engine. just learning her personality. looking good tho, tires not here ive been working alot on drag meet waiting on parts . got some fastners but to big still might have to shop around more
any of you guys have a mom and pop track you would think that would be interested in vintage drags for all makes of bike let me no,thinking of 1/8 mile in north texas for one. I wont have big motor done was trying I think parts will hold me up but have a good 750 for starters, kinda bites but might be pretty busy at meet not much time for racing.

[isiahstites]

Skinnner your posts are great and we all really appreciate the updates.

Now can you take some pictures and post them so we can SEE the progress?

Scott

[skinner]

I know guys Ill get you some pictures up soon but you could always come to the races ha ha, no really Ill get it together for pictures,I know paul jones coming up from around dallas with fuel sporty maybe a couple cafe guys could catch a ride. and share driving

[Donson]

Skinnner your posts are great and we all really appreciate the updates.

Now can you take some pictures and post them so we can SEE the progress?

Scott

Skinner, If I can do it, anybody can!!:Twitch_anim::Twitch_anim:

[skinner]

Well Ive got my nephew coming with his camara and computer skills to give me lesseon spent a couple hours trying pictures and lost them all might my computer. Guys I have decided to build a good motor for Eds bike instead of hurrying for meet these are very special bikes and deserve the time and mony to put back historicly correct I could put a motor in and cut a few corners for meet but I know Not the right way one more month wont hurt, Ill display at the meet and have some really good parts coming
and I Know thats the way Ed would have done it, Perfect

[DarthRider]

I Know thats the way Ed would have done it, Perfect

Well, he did tell you to "take care of his shit"...not that there was ever any doubt about it!
When is the meet? I'm sending you something that would be great for your display.

[skinner]

end of june 25-26 have alot of intrest in vintage nationals across country really working on getting one close to you Texas guys want to display and show history along with putting up some good times on these machines.
Found a couple triple motors and in the end will have all three running just bits and pieces but kind of one off some of them. the plan is to have the rest of my life so do it right the first time. Dave hope you have some pictures like to see,
never saw with a engine in them wondering about twin exhaust

[skinner]

It breaks my heart to not have Eds bikes up for meet I could have sorta but would of had to cut corners hang a coil by hose clamp shit like that. and the motor I would have put in not much more than stock. but Ill have at meet alot of parts coming and shell be up soon with pride and power.

[skinner]

well today sitting on first twin with it running I know I havent been showing the build but on the next one I will everthing seem ok but raining like hell here wish I could send some down to texas but to see that bike come alive after 30 years very cool a couple of bugs but nothing major wow all by myself, oh but my cat and Ed.
going to be wicking the throttle soon cant wait have a new web page for folks interested in building a drag bike or racing again
http;//www.phpbbplanet.com/nvmdraforum/;index.php?mforum+nvmdraforum

[Donson]

Cool Skinner, We need pics! Can You come to Texas and trace down an electrical glitch on My Triumph?,
I let the Lucas smoke out!

[skinner]

wont be for a little bit yet but want to next summer working on events for next year now,I would sure like to help you tho. Hope all are ok in Texas the fires look bad. on the next build I will post pictures I promise took me every extra moment I had on this one.I decided to use a fairly tame motor at first to give me a benchmark.
Dont think I could have a better chassis. I built big motor before and chased the power with chassis changes, this time the other way around get chassis first then make the power.

[skinner]

Cool Skinner, We need pics! Can You come to Texas and trace down an electrical glitch on My Triumph?,
I let the Lucas smoke out!

what year bike you have and what happened?

[skinner]

My wife is telling me that she thought I was racing in my sleep the other nite, soon to be a reality not a dream anymore.

[Donson]

1971 Tiger 650. I was cleaning it up, touching up frame, detailing. There were some wire nuts under the seat, and some in the headlight. I removed them , and hsoldered and heat shrinked the connections, ONE AT A TIME, so as to not cross any wires, Also removed a lot of frayed cotton cloth and recovered with blackm tape. When I turn the key on, it blows the fuse......I havent had time to get back to it, plan to this week.
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv21/bryanetta2009/Triumph650cleanup002-2.jpg
http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv21/bryanetta2009/Triumph650cleanup003-1.jpg

[skinner]

Nice piece. so many times with that wireing when you fix one thing you losen another or pull a wire you wernt even working on many times I think that caused me to drink a few extra. Ive Always thought that 1 year of rocker box was the best, just for that plug so you could slip feeler gage thru straight.

[skinner]

well i have been working alot and always looking forward to the weekend for last 3 weeks to get a first ride on Eds bike, the airstrip race didnt go off and they canceled it, last two weeks rain on weekends feels like Im running out of time this season, Had the bike down on rt 7 by the river to test and tune cops came before I even made first run one said theyll be out of the area for awhile but then statey showed up, all said nice bike but better not let me catch it on the street.Have one other spot to try it but amish have moved in dont want to hit a buggy and they have cell phones now too.maybe we will have a good spell of weather soon.

[Donson]

Dang it, the Amish are always stirrin up trouble!
Them and their new-fangled cell-phones!:001:

[skinner]

Really you would not believe, these here dont use slow moving vehical signs or lights and we have mostly curvy roads after dark that reflector tape looks like a guardrail reflector or deer eye. and if we hit them were at fault.not good on a bike.

[skinner]

Hey guys heres a few pictures of the new M&H tire and youll notice the bike in backround as the first twin of Eds. If anyones interested in tires they are 167.00 + shipping first time in 30 years produced. my racing association NVMDRA has first chance at selling them. Wont fit on first twin because of duck tail fender but will on second twin hope to have both up and running next spring, Ill have build thread on second for you all to watch.


http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee424/wayneskinner1/IMG_1229-Copy.jpg


http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee424/wayneskinner1/IMG_1228.jpg

[Donson]

Cool Skinner!
I know You dont want to alter any of Ed's design, but I bet He wouldnt be mad if You "adjust" the fender to make that tire fit.
Can You lengthen that strut to make it work, or will that cause clearance problems at the other end?

[skinner]

Well the oil tank is part of the fender Ed said less bolts for mounting, I mean the fender is the backside of oil tank all one piece, and the rim is a little wide by 1 inch. This along with changing fender is more than I want to change on this bike. But the other twin will fit nicely thiner rim higher fender, same oil tank design very cool. another little tidbit on first twin is that there is and gas tank built in dont think ever used but I put oil in to gravity feed top end works good for drags. you can see the valve above the carb, slick

[Donson]

Got it, I forgot about the fender/tank.

[skinner]

Hey guys been crazy busy. Workin and all. Have some pictures of the twins from Jay who used to ride them, all together and ready.
Helps me out alot on exhaust and such. I was really wanting to put a twin in the second of eds frames but after looking at how it was set up I decided to go with the triple engine.
So I am looking for a engine to fit in. They ran an ARD mag on the first twin but just recieved a old moris mag to use close but cheaper.
Ive been selling the M&H slicks to folks all over the world but most here in USA even sold to a fella in Alaska. Gives me great hope that the vintage racing will take off.
Before I start on the Triple I will post pictures for sure and let you guys watch the build. Me and my cat have coffee every morning with these bikes . A very good way to start the day

[Donson]

Hi Jay. I thought I was the only one to have My morning coffee with a cat. How much are those racing slicks?

[DarthRider]

Thanks for the update Wayne.
Hey, if you will email me the pic of the one completed bike, I'll post it and the pix from Jay here on the Cafe'.
Hang in there buddy...you're chasing your dream and gaining on it!

[skinner]

The racing slicks are 167.00 plus shipping around 25 bucks in states there on the way from la now, pretty cool to know it all started on cafe contacts. New Zealand,Australia,France,cannada,Japan,Talking to Germany and sent 6 to London England most all are to be used on bikes that will run. Very cool indeed Texas to montana Main to cal and Washington states.

[Sir Limpsalot]

Hang in there buddy...you're chasing your dream and gaining on it!

Bigtime! Well done Wayne!

[Donson]

I would like to have a used one to hang on the wall in My shop! A WELL used one.....:004:

[skinner]

I would like to have a used one to hang on the wall in My shop! A WELL used one.....:004:
You can count on it! Im thinking of going to as many tracks as possiable this year and help spread the word about vintage races. Id like to meet as many people who bought tires and have helped and Ive meet thru this all, really amazing.

[skinner]

Bigtime! Well done Wayne!
Also I just received and order for 15 from UK M&H really surprised, My hats off to them for taking a chance in this economy.

[Sir Limpsalot]

Also I just received and order for 15 from UK M&H really surprised, My hats off to them for taking a chance in this economy.

"Live Dangerously" that's our motto! :icon10:

[Donson]

Good job, Wayne! ARe You still over at JJ? I have not been active over there much.

[DarthRider]

...Im thinking of going to as many tracks as possiable this year and help spread the word about vintage races. Id like to meet as many people who bought tires and have helped and Ive meet thru this all, really amazing.
Wayne, remember Amarillo Dragway, only a mile from my house, S. of Amarillo.
It started out as a 1/4 mile NHRA track and hosted at least one national. Eddy Hill & Ed Mabry used to race dragsters here regularly. Now it's a really nice 1/8 mile IHRA strip with good amenities, new surface and good lights for night running. There are nearby motels & eateries for out of towners.
It's under new ownership and those guys are looking for all kinds of things to do there, I bet they'd be all over vintage bike drags.
http://www.amarillodragway.com/
http://amarilloracers.com/phpBB3/viewforum.php?f=42
It is in a great location...I-40 and US 287, the main NS route from south, central, east Texas.
We have a nice place to stay and Betty is a great cook. The bikes would sleep inside and I have a nice shop with air, lift, etc. And a beer fridge.
You could scratch Otis Mabry, Shop Cat.
http://mrcycle1.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Mabry/604-053/1090099931_tbnYa-M-1.jpg
C'mon down...! :webers:

[Donson]

I met one of the new owners last summer and visited with Him for a while, and He IS a bike Guy.

[skinner]

Ive talked with them I need to get a confermation some how from bikes before I put up the money for a track.
Keith from big D said he maybe bring road race bikes and a few hot street bikes to Denton have to start small first. Grandfather in kinda for free.

[DarthRider]

Wayne, it looks like at this stage it would be really helpful for you guys to have a forum site similar this one to gather interest and momentum.
Have anybody in your ranks ready, willing & able to do that?
I'd sign up as a member and help spread the word but I know nothing about starting or running a forum site.
Or maybe there is another site on drag bikes or vintage racing that would let you have a page on their site?

[Arby]

You can count on it! Im thinking of going to as many tracks as possiable this year and help spread the word about vintage races. Id like to meet as many people who bought tires and have helped and Ive meet thru this all, really amazing.

Hey skinner. My friends from Ohio expressed an interest in attending any races you might put on in the Ohio area. If you promote any races this year, how about posting the schedule here. I'll make sure they see it.

RB

[skinner]

Ive got a bulliton board when I get on it I search[ nvmdra bulliton board] and it comes up a few members have started to reply some good some just sort of talk but a start. I have a phone list tho of over 185 people with old drag bikes or who are building a drag bike. most dont do internet. Im getting another ten tires on order so thats over 50 sold. I know now that there is a place for this but to get us all at the same place might take awhile.
So thats why Im trying to go and find existing events and merry in with them. Ill be traveling to different folks who want to race and we will race at there local track at a test and tune night. My goal in all this is to have the race for the riders first, not promoters or the track. To have fun and surround ourselves with good old Iron. A lot of people want me to start a membership with a fee but what am I offering them with fee? T shirt, sticker, Id rather just sell them to gain mony for track. But these tires man are a really good way to judge how many people want this to happen there building bikes around this tire and Ive sold enough for M&H to make another batch. so sounds like I need to have a 4'' challange. The track I used last year is in Limbo and dont know whats going to happen there.
One use of fee would be to have a quarterly publication and keep track of times and bikes. I would also like to do a calander to help raise money, group pictures and a little write up.
Hey any and all advice needed

[skinner]

I had a guy in indiana call me the other day said he has and old Norton top fuel bike he bought in texas some years back, Thought the guy who set up the deal was Ed Maybry used a 4'' slick and did not know anything else. his name is collins not RC of honda fame.
I have every intention to go to the Texas thaw but Im sure it will be a last minute decision due to the weather at that time of year. a few guys going from around area.
Aug 24 in Iowa at eddyville raceway we have a race date should be good turnout and also charity ride from around country for wounded war vets,along with National motorcycle museum that has a display for vintage drag bikes this year.

[skinner]

Well have been soarcing parts for triple found a good 73 trident I think I can buy. Ed always told me that IGN. was always changing on triple.
So I contacted friend of mine that works on mags Antique speed and machine knows mags He said get fairbanks morris 6 cylinder mag and use Joe hunt adapter plate run every other plug in cap, easy, somtimes I think you over think things. any way working on getting that together and when trident gets here Ill start to post pictures Im really excited to think of having both out and running this year. even if they have mild motors for start to have them up and running amazing.

[Arby]

skinner, you're a man on a mission!! :023:

Hope I get to check out your bikes one day.

RB

[Sir Limpsalot]

Wayne, can't you just use an electronic ignition? We used a Lucas RITA and it gave reliable sparks till way past valve float!

http://www.britcycle.com/lucas_rita_electronic_ignition.htm

You can run them with either a battery or an alternator.

Si.

[skinner]

Yes I can go with elc. Ign But if you ever saw Jack Wison ign. wires came right out of point cover no coils, I dont want to hang coils on bike as there are no existing mounts and or battery box I cant bring myself to weld a tab on frame, I talked to Keith at big d and said Id never find one of Jacks Ign. anywere. I found one but have to buy the bike few thousand.
cant do yet. they ran battery elminator with stator, mag would be self contained. No new mounts.


Wayne, can't you just use an electronic ignition? We used a Lucas RITA and it gave reliable sparks till way past valve float!

http://www.britcycle.com/lucas_rita_electronic_ignition.htm

You can run them with either a battery or an alternator.

Si.

[DarthRider]

Wayne I never heard of that Norton fueler or Ed setting one up, but that doesn't mean a lot.
I was gone from the Ft. Worth area from 1970-79 which is when it likely would have run.
Ask Keith Martin, I bet he'd know. But I'll ask around too, if you like.
Are you thinking of buying it or...?
I very glad you found your triple! Ed is smiling you know...

[skinner]

Well the first twin is ready for the track everything done except the windshield, I could not afford the ARD mag so fitted a Joe hunt on.
Still looking for a good trident that fits into budget last guy had deal worked out then he saw what they went for on ebay and raised his price.
A hand shake isnt what it used to be for some.
Anybody heard from Dave, hows he doing tried to call a few times but dont want to bother him much.

[Sir Limpsalot]

Well done for getting the twin track ready. And, yes, it's a shame that the "handshake" seems to have lost it's binding qualities in some quarters.
Dave is doing OK now. He's had a tough time, a five and a half hour operation and lots of meds - some of which didn't agree with him. He says he's "turned the corner" now and hopes to be home next week. He's been checking in here from time to time and will, no doubt, give you an update next time he does.

Si.

[Donson]

Wayne, when are We gonna see some pics?

Wait, You only have 127 posts........Took Me 3,650 posts to learn how. Nevermind.

[Arby]

A hand shake isnt what it used to be for some.
.

I had a lawyer tell me that a handshake deal was only good if you got to take the hand with you.

RB

[1MPH]

A hand shake isnt what it used to be for some.



Like "They" say a handshake is only as good as the paper it's written on.
Personally I believe a handshake is a mans bond and should not be broken.

[skinner]

well anyone that talks to Dave wish him well and tell him Eds son is sending me turbo for LSR bike.
Ed and I were talking so much that we left on his bench when I loaded up. Never called till the other day just wanted to wait, but their sending it this week its a big part of that bike. I have been tinkering with twin and have a good twin motor for the other [triple] bike but still would like to put a triple in it like it was last raced.
I have ordered a windshield for first twin but on backorder. If I cant find one for awhile Ill run it naked without plow and fairing for now. Ill get pics up soon my daughter
says shell help.

[skinner]

nd
Quite a few of Big D stuff that came out of the shop after Jack passed. He has lsr Trophys and Time Tickets

[Donson]

Hey Wayne, how can I get one of those roasted tires to hang on My shop wall?

[skinner]

Sorry I haven't been on here in a while just going every direction it seems, some of you might notice that I put the LSR bike on ebay I put a really high reserve just to feel out what if anything its worth haven't had a bid yet.
I have found some other parts and bikes history and stuff that might be obtainable and as Ed told me if I had to sell LSR to finance Texas twins then he was fine with it. Ive been talking to Kyle Eds stepson and he told me that there will be and auction end of April at eds shop. Unfortunately I'm not wealthy or Id buy as much as I could. Really dont think ill sell LSR but if high bid comes in then my banker will see some value as collector bike. crazy they use ebay as an appraisal, but they do. I hope to have a few of those tires for your walls by end of summer.

[DarthRider]

Save a tire for me Wayne...I want a piece of that grand history you're making! By the way, it's traditional that fried racing tire "trophies" are accompanied by a donation to the team's racing fund!
Ed is very proud of you and your race program.
What's the eBay auction number? I'd like to take a look and maybe even place a bid.
Feel free to use any of the stuff I wrote you about that bike in any way you like.
Did you get the LSR bike's turbo & exhaust system yet?
Go Team Skinner! :webers: