Target Audience:
Norton Commando Mark 3 owners, independent workshops, and motorcycle mechanics specializing in classic British motorcycles.
Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, factory-level information at a single purchase price, offering significant cost savings over individual technical bulletins or older, potentially incomplete manuals.
Authenticity:
Based on original factory documentation, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Accessibility:
Instant download to various digital devices, offering convenience and portability.
Completeness:
Covers all aspects of repair, servicing, and troubleshooting, eliminating the need for supplementary resources for most tasks.
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage including top end, bottom end, lubrication, cooling (where applicable), and ignition systems.
Transmission:
Detailed procedures for the gearbox, clutch, and final drive.
Fuel System:
Carburetor tuning, fuel delivery, and tank servicing.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition components, charging system (alternator/generator), and starter motor.
Frame And Suspension:
Fork servicing, rear shock absorber maintenance, and frame inspection.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system (front and rear), including master cylinders, calipers, and bleeding procedures.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fender, tank, seat, and handlebar servicing.
Maintenance:
Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, chain adjustment, and brake adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues.
Repair:
Comprehensive instructions for component disassembly, repair, reassembly, and adjustment.
Rebuilds:
Detailed guidance for major component overhauls, such as engine and gearbox rebuilds.
Installation:
Guidance on fitting new or replacement parts and accessories.
Depth:
Professional-level diagnostics and repair, suitable for both experienced mechanics and dedicated enthusiasts undertaking complex tasks.
Visual Aid Detail:
Detailed photos and diagrams illustrating procedures and component relationships.
Exploded Diagrams:
Extensive use of exploded views for precise part identification and assembly guidance.
Searchability:
Likely searchable text-based PDF (standard for professional manuals).
Print Capability:
Printable by the user (single pages or entire manual).
Resolution:
High-resolution, suitable for clear printing of diagrams and text.
Binding:
N/A (Digital product - no physical binding)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital product - no physical paper type)
Usage Rights:
Lifetime use on unlimited computers/devices.
Expiry:
No expiry dates, no renewal fees.
Version:
100% Full Manual, not a trial or limited version.
Configuration:
Parallel-twin (Vertical Twin)
Displacement:
798 cc (for 850 Commando)
Bore X Stroke:
77 mm x 86 mm
Power Output:
Approximately 50-55 bhp (at 6,000 rpm, depending on specific tuning and dyno)
Torque Output:
Around 50 lb-ft (at 4,500 rpm, depending on specific tuning and dyno)
Top Speed:
Approx. 110-120 mph (177-193 km/h)
Carburetion:
Typically twin Amal Concentric carburetors (e.g., 32mm or 34mm depending on spec)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (with potential for lead-free additive if valves seats are not hardened).
Type:
Wet sump (with oil in crankcase)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4 Imperial pints (2.27 Litres)
Type:
Electronic Ignition (e.g., Boyer Bransden or similar aftermarket replacement, as original points system was often upgraded).
Arrangement:
Isolastic frame mounting system for vibration isolation.
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety standards of the era were different from modern automotive standards).
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear (standard on Mark 3).
Front Brake Caliper:
Girling two-piston caliper
Rear Brake Caliper:
Girling single-piston caliper
Vibration Dampening:
Isolastic engine mounting system designed to reduce rider fatigue from engine vibrations.
Audio System:
N/A (Motorcycle of this era, no integrated infotainment).
Rider Aids:
N/A (No modern rider aids like ABS or traction control).
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No electronic connectivity features).
Electric Start:
Electric starter motor fitted as standard on the Mark 3 model, a significant upgrade from earlier kick-start-only versions.
Oil Change:
Recommended every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Service:
Check and adjust gap every 3,000 miles (4,800 km).
Chain Lubrication And Adjustment:
Check and lubricate chain every 500 miles (800 km); adjust as necessary to maintain correct slack.
Engine Oil Grade:
SAE 20W/50 or SAE 30 (API SG or equivalent, check manual for specific recommendation).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (ensure compatibility with seals).
Isolastic Wear:
Wear in the Isolastic mounting components can lead to increased vibration and handling issues. Regular inspection and adjustment/replacement is crucial.
Electrical Reliability:
Early models sometimes suffered from electrical component failures. Upgraded electronic ignition systems are common and recommended.
Gearbox Shifting:
Some owners report notchy gear changes, which can often be mitigated by proper lubrication, chain adjustment, and gearbox maintenance.
Carburetor Tuning:
Amal carbs require periodic adjustment and cleaning for optimal performance and idle stability.
Manufacturer:
Norton Motorcycle Company (UK)
Development Context:
The Commando was Norton's flagship motorcycle, known for its performance and handling, evolving through various models to improve reliability and user experience.
Mark 3 Introduction:
The Mark 3 was introduced as a development of the earlier Commando models, featuring significant updates, including the crucial electric starter.
Production Period Mark 3:
Started in 1973, with this manual covering 1975 onwards, indicating continued production and potential minor updates.
Manufacturing Location:
Norton's factory at Andover, Hampshire, England.
Legacy:
The Norton Commando is considered a British motorcycle icon, celebrated for its style, performance, and engineering innovation in its era.
Performance Reviews:
Historically praised for its good handling and powerful engine, though early reliability issues were a common point of discussion.
Manual Quality:
Described as a 'Professional Manual' equivalent to those used by mechanics, indicating high standards of technical accuracy and detail.
