1966 a65 lightning. USA export model

[Stan]

Mmm🤔 I guess I'm best leaving it as it is, no point opening one can of worms, to create another.
I can live with it, the way it is. Just need it it up and running now, a little oil here and there, a new battery and check out the Zener connection, then I should be up and running.
Your advise has been really useful, thanks again guys.

[Stan]

Mmm🤔 I think I will leave it as it is.
I don't see the point in opening another can worms to create another. Getting it up and running now is the priority.
A few pints of oil in different places, a new battery and sorting/testing the zener. Should all do the trick.
I can look at other thing further down the line.
Just want it on the road for now, thanks again gents for your usefull info/feedback, very much appreciated 👍.

[chaz]

I would add, if the bike is new to you and running, I would give it a 100 or so miles, say 3 or 4 runs out of varying lengths and speeds, then have a look.
Its all new to you, depending if its recently been rebuilt prior to your buying, had a good thrashing or been laid up for months/ years, you wont really know.
Unless, like me and the A50, imported back sat in a dealers for a month or more, no idea when it was used in America last, SO try to start it...
AS it started and with no real history.... strip it.
If however its been used by previous owner frequently you may be ok. otherwise, an oil change, maybe engine flush, new fuel then a few miles you will find out where the leaks are, and there are many possibiliities,
if it runs and no excess smoke or flames you are looking good, its then a few miles of riding and you will know what needs looking at.
Its not impossible for swaps on something this age.

[Springett]

I have a similar problem. French re-import A65 Lightning.

As regards electronic ignition, mine came with a Boyer micro Mk111, it replaced points and advance/retard. Except for poor wiring (now fixed) it seem to work OK.

When I first looked over the bike I noticed the zenor diode was still in place but not wire connected, which panicked me at first. As regards rectifier and zenor diode, mine came with a Cypress Podtronics AC rectifier and regulator, it replaced rectifier and voltage regulator and zenor diode. Except for poor wiring (now fixed) it seem to work OK.

Although a bit late, I hope this helps.

[Springett]

Ooops, sorry I'm not good with forums. I've posted the above carb problems in the "singles" section.
What I have posted about concentric carbs is still relevant i.e. tickle pin damaging float.