Engines

Here’s a gallery of engines that I’ve worked on showing before and after shots so that you can see the thoroughness and attention to detail that I put in to each and every component that you want restored.

My Suzuki GS850G Restoration

I’ve always been passionate about motorcycles, especially classics from the 1970s. When I was 19, I bought my first Suzuki GS850G — and I absolutely loved it.

Decades later, I never forgot that bike. In August 2013, I found another GS850G on eBay, won the auction, and collected it from Hull.

After getting it home, I asked a close friend — arguably the best motorcycle mechanic in Swindon — to give it a full check-over. He confirmed it had been well maintained, so he balanced the carbs, changed the oil, and carried out a complete service. I enjoyed six months of trouble-free riding before taking it off the road for a full restoration.

The Restoration Process

My goal is to return the bike to as-new condition — or better.

So far, I’ve:

  • Completely stripped the bike

  • Had the frame sandblasted and powder coated

  • Started work on the engine and other components

Initially, I sent the engine to Bristol for vapour blasting, but I was disappointed with the quality. That’s when I decided to invest in my own vapour blasting cabinet — so I could achieve the high standard I expect.

See the Progress

You can follow the full story and view the restoration gallery to see the transformation step-by-step.

If you’re looking to restore your own bike, I’d be happy to help.

📱 01793 848 314

📧 info@vapour-blasting-swindon.co.uk

📍 Unit 6, Elm Court Industrial Estate, Station Road, Royal Wootton Bassett, SN4 7ED

The Yamaha XJ engine

The Starting Point
The Yamaha XJ engine still in the frame, covered in years of dirt, corrosion, and wear. At this stage it was running but tired, crying out for a full strip and restoration.
Stripped Down
The engine dismantled into every single component. Each part was laid out ready for inspection and cleaning. This shows just how many individual pieces go into a rebuild, and why attention to detail at this stage is crucial.
The Rebuild
The engine reassembled with freshly blasted casings and covers. The transformation is clear: from dull and corroded to sharp, polished, and factory-fresh. A real testament to what vapour blasting can achieve.
After Vapour Blasting
The same components after vapour blasting — stripped of years of grime and oxidation. Aluminium and other metals now restored to a clean, bright finish, ready to be rebuilt.