Reading Assignment:
- Read the introduction and Chapter 1 of Shop Class as Soulcraft
In class, we discussed the various motorcycle components that were mentioned in Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance (including tappets, valves, pistons, and cylinders), along with the problems that the narrator encounters (engine seizure and failure) and how to best deal with them. We also discussed engine efficiency.
In the shop, we split up into two groups. One group worked on the blue bike’s transmission, while the other larger group dismantled the ’57 Tiger Cub.
- Transmission group: Adjusted the clutch spacing such that the clutch would engage properly on start-up.
- ’57 Tiger Cub group: Essentially reduced the bike to its frame. Removed the handlebars, seat, engine, coil, carburetor, headlamp, etc. The quartermaster placed parts from respective bike components that we dismantled into individually numbered bags, such that it will be easier to locate parts for reassembly later.
We also examined a replica of Ford’s original engine and two cutaway pieces of modern engines, in order to better understand how the engine of our bike works.
We did not assign groups, but we anticipate doing so next Tuesday.
J.S.