I'm getting deeper into this bike I got from my nephew. It was stored and used as a mouse condo in the airfilter for maybe a dozen years. When I first pulled the head I thought the cylinders were going to be usable, but now that is looking doubtful. I am seeing corrosion areas that have some depth, not a lot but maybe up to .005", I decided it's got to be repaired or find another engine if that is cost prohibitive. In order to repair the cylinders it looks like the engine has to be completely disassembled, and if I did that then the cost to repair could be very high very quickly, as I would replace the bearings and seals and gaskets in addition to a new top end and the machine work.. I have a local guy who has a 97 and a 98. Neither are in running condition but the engines turn over ok, and he gotten one to fire with starting fluid. I haven't seen them in person yet.. I can have both for $450.

A couple of questions- Will a 97/98 F3 engine fit in the 94 frame and work ok? I could wait and see what pops up on eBay, but then that's still a crap shoot. Another ebay seller not too far from me has a couple of F3 engines and he wants $500-600 for them.

The frame and bodywork on the 94 are in good shape, all the electrical is working. I do plan to strip it down to the frame, clean + repaint and restore to reasonably good condition. Just looking for the least expensive route to go.

 

Yes F3 motor fits right into F2 frame. Re-use everything F2: carbs, airbox, harness; ignition box, etc.