Target Audience:
BMW R 12/R 17 motorcycle owners, restorers, and mechanics
Value Proposition:
Enables cost savings through accurate part identification and understanding of vehicle architecture
Illustrated Parts:
Comprehensive illustrations and diagrams for all major components
Technical Reference:
Provides essential technical data for maintenance and repair planning
Accessibility:
Designed to be understood by individuals with basic mechanical aptitude
Primary Coverage:
Parts identification and cataloging for BMW R 12 and R 17 motorcycles
Secondary Coverage:
Illustrations and technical information supporting part identification and basic assembly concepts
Estimated Page Count:
Variable, typically 50-150 pages for period parts lists
Manual Type:
Parts Catalog / Illustrated Parts List
Format:
Printed Document (Original/Reprint) or Digital Scan (PDF)
Digital Searchability:
Depends on the quality of the digital scan; OCR might be applied to some reproductions.
Chassis:
Fahrgestell (Frame, suspension components, wheels, brakes)
Engine:
Motor (Engine components, internal parts, lubrication system parts)
Transmission:
Getriebe (Gearbox components, clutch parts, driveshaft parts)
Electrical:
Limited coverage for electrical components as parts of assemblies
Accessories Tools:
Werkzeug, Zubehör, Sonderlieferungen (Tools, accessories, special deliveries/options)
Identification Of Parts:
Identification of all replaceable parts with part numbers and corresponding illustrations
Assembly Diagrams:
Exploded view diagrams showing component relationships for assembly and disassembly
Technical Information Retrieval:
Providing the technical information required to get the vehicle running in 100% condition
Basic Servicing Guidance:
Step-by-step explanations for safety and easy servicing, understandable with basic mechanical knowledge
Depth Of Illustration:
Depth illustrations and diagrams
Diagnostic Support:
Indirect support through parts identification; not a dedicated diagnostic manual
Repair Procedures:
Implied through illustration of part relationships and exploded views
Manual Completeness:
This is a parts list (Ersatzteilliste), not a comprehensive service or repair manual. It details parts but not exhaustive repair steps or diagnostics.
Digital Format:
Likely PDF; clarity and searchability depend on original scan quality
Print Quality Considerations:
Original print quality; clarity of illustrations is paramount for usability
Original Binding:
Typically saddle-stitched or perfect bound for period documents
Original Paper Type:
Often a lighter-weight, off-white paper stock common for technical manuals of the era
Data Accuracy Level:
High for parts identification; general technical information may require cross-referencing with a dedicated service manual for full repair procedures.
Engine Type:
Horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer) four-stroke
Engine Displacement:
R 12: 745 cc (approx.); R 17: 751 cc (approx.)
Bore X Stroke:
R 12: 78 mm x 78 mm; R 17: 78 mm x 78 mm (bore/stroke might be identical)
Horsepower:
R 12: ~18-20 HP @ 3400 RPM; R 17: ~24 HP @ 4000 RPM
Torque:
Not commonly specified in contemporary parts lists, but estimated based on power output
Carburetion:
Single or dual BMW/Jihr (Jikov) or similar vintage carburetor
Fuel Type:
Gasoline (Benzin), likely leaded, with appropriate octane rating for the era
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 1000-2000 km, depending on operating conditions and oil quality
Valve Adjustment:
Recommended periodically, often tied to mileage or engine hours; specific intervals would be in a service manual, not a parts list
Engine Oil Type:
Viscosity SAE 50 or SAE 40 (depending on climate), mineral oil; specification like 'Shell X-100' or similar period oil
Gearbox Oil Type:
Viscosity SAE 90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil
Final Drive Oil Type:
Viscosity SAE 90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil
Common Wear Items:
Crankshaft bearings, gearbox bushings, clutch plates, valve guides, carburetor diaphragms (if applicable)
Carburetor Tuning:
Requires careful tuning due to age and potential for wear in the fuel system components
Electrical System Reliability:
Original wiring can be brittle; dynamo and battery charging systems require maintenance
Bmw Motorcycle Legacy:
BMW has a long and distinguished history in motorcycle manufacturing, starting with the R 32 in 1923
R Series Development:
The R 12 and R 17 were part of BMW's successful pre-war boxer engine motorcycle line, succeeding models like the R 11 and preceding the R 18
Production Period:
Produced from 1935 to 1940
Manufacturing Location:
Munich, Germany
Historical Market Success:
The R 12 and R 17 were popular and influential motorcycles in their time, contributing significantly to BMW's reputation
Contemporary Reviews:
Highly regarded for their engineering, durability, and performance in period tests and reviews
