Buying an 85 Tecate 3 on Sat. for $50

[3wheelmecca]

It has been sitting, no motor, but to what I am told has newish (Maier or Clarke) plastics, DG pipe and was barely used by the original owner. Motor was blown, and the guy lost it:mad:. I was wondering if there is anyhing to watch out for or adress as far as factory defects or bad tendencies. I have heard their wheelbase is so short they have a tendency to loop out. Is this true? I had one back in the day, but i do not remember working on it as i was very young. Are there any things that specifically need some attention? I am more of a flatland/dirt track guy, so it is not going to be a jumper. Any information is highly appreciated. Thanks--Vince

[Yamaha_Rules69]

I know the rear frames were prone to break on the 84 model (near grab bar), mine was completly busted off when I got it! Im not sure, but they changed somthing in 85 to make it a little stronger. I dont think the wheelbase is too short, you just have to be ready to lean forward when you come heavy on the gas. I have beaten a banshee on an asphault drag, and was able to keep the front end down for the most part. Keep your foot ready over the rear brake, in case the front decides to shoot up. Dont forget to post some pics when you get it! What are you planning on doing with it?

[3wheelmecca]

either a stock resto, a mild mod(reeds, mild bore, and bigger tuned carb), OR the unthinkable: Tecate 500! I am leaning towards mild mod, because I like my arms in my sockets, as well as some cash in pocket. I just need a motor, either KX, KXT, or KXT-4 hard to find cheap.

[Yamaha_Rules69]

Another thing to remember about the tecate is that unlike the 250R or Tri-z, it uses a nikasil bore, which cant be bored out - unless installing a sleeve ($$) or it would need to be replated ($$) Just somthing to keep in mind when buying parts.

[dcreel]

Awesome wlecome to the club.. Join the 84/85 tecate group and ask away we have 44 members who own 84/85 tecates. There are also quite a few builds going on.

[3wheelmecca]

thanks! this was a great help. yamaha, I am aware about the nikasil plating, I have a plater out in Chicago that can put the nik coating on for cheap.