Target Audience:
Owners and mechanics specializing in classic British motorcycles, particularly AJS models from the mid-1950s.
Niche:
Essential reference for maintaining and restoring iconic post-war AJS motorcycles, filling a critical gap for vintage enthusiasts.
Value Proposition:
Provides the essential technical knowledge required for accurate diagnosis, repair, and maintenance, preserving the originality and performance of these classic machines.
Manual Content:
Comprehensive service and repair information for AJS 16, 18, 20, and 30 models from 1956.
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 150-200 pages (estimated based on typical manuals of the era and scope).
Type:
Service/Workshop Manual
Format:
Printed Reproduction (likely)
Engine:
Engine overhauls, tuning, lubrication, cooling, ignition system, carburetion.
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, assembly, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Clutch:
Clutch operation, adjustment, and repair.
Suspension:
Front fork servicing, rear suspension components, and adjustments.
Brakes:
Drum brake operation, adjustment, and servicing.
Electrical:
Ignition system wiring, lighting circuits, charging system (generator/dynamo), battery maintenance.
Chassis:
Frame inspection, wheel bearing maintenance, steering head adjustment.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank maintenance, fuel lines, and carburettor servicing (specific to fitted carburetors like Amal).
General Maintenance:
Regular servicing, lubrication points, cleaning procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Common problems and diagnostic procedures for various systems.
Overhaul:
Complete engine disassembly and reassembly instructions.
Adjustments:
Carburettor, ignition timing, clutch, and brake adjustments.
Depth:
Comprehensive for qualified mechanics and experienced enthusiasts, covering detailed disassembly, repair, and reassembly of major components.
File Format:
Likely printed on demand or a high-quality reproduction of the original manual.
Print Quality:
High-quality reproduction designed for clarity and durability in a workshop environment.
Binding:
Typically saddle-stitched or perfect bound for ease of use and durability.
Paper Type:
Durable paper stock, often gloss or semi-gloss to withstand workshop conditions.
Engine Type:
Single-cylinder, four-stroke (OHV for 16, 18, 20; likely overhead cam for some variants or later models, but manual covers specific OHV configurations for these designations).
Bore Stroke 16:
350cc variants (e.g., Model 16) typically around 66mm x 72.8mm.
Bore Stroke 18:
500cc variants (e.g., Model 18) typically around 82.55mm x 93mm.
Bore Stroke 20:
350cc variants (e.g., Model 20) typically around 66mm x 72.8mm.
Bore Stroke 30:
500cc variants (e.g., Model 30) typically around 82.55mm x 93mm.
Horsepower 350Cc Approx:
Around 18-20 bhp at peak RPM (model dependent).
Horsepower 500Cc Approx:
Around 24-28 bhp at peak RPM (model dependent).
Carburetor Type:
Typically Amal (e.g., Monobloc or Concentric) or similar British brands of the era, with specific jetting and settings detailed in the manual.
Fuel Type:
Petrol (gasoline) – historically, leaded fuel was used. Modern equivalents or additives may be required.
Oil Type Vintage:
Castor oil or mineral oil blended with fuel (pre-mix for some gearbox lubrication, separate engine oil system).
Oil Type Modern Recommendation:
Manual will specify original oil grades; modern enthusiasts often use specific classic motorcycle oils with appropriate additives.
Gearbox:
Constant mesh, four-speed (or sometimes three-speed depending on specific model variant and year).
Transmission Options:
Not typically applicable for this era; standard gearboxes were the norm.
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate clutch operated by cable and lever.
Gear Selection:
Foot-operated gearchange, often with a heel-and-toe lever.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 1,000-2,000 miles, or as specified for gearbox/engine oil changes.
Major Overhaul Interval:
Depends heavily on usage, but engine rebuilds might be considered every 15,000-30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3-4 pints (1.4-1.9 litres) for 350/500cc models, check manual for exact figures.
Gearbox Oil Type:
EP (Extreme Pressure) gear oil, often SAE 90. Manual will specify exact grade.
Fork Oil Type:
Specific weight motorcycle fork oil. Manual will detail type and quantity.
Common Wear Items:
Valve guides, piston rings, primary chain, clutch plates, and worn gearbox components.
Electrical Gremlins:
Lucas electrical components can be temperamental; wiring loom integrity and dynamo output require regular checks.
Carburettor Tuning:
Carburettors require regular cleaning and adjustment for optimal performance, especially with modern fuel.
Manufacturer:
Associated Motor Cycles (AMC) Group, which also produced Matchless motorcycles.
Legacy:
AJS has a significant racing heritage and a long history of producing reliable British motorcycles.
Post War Design:
These models represent post-war British motorcycle design, focusing on practicality and performance for the civilian market and dispatch riders.
Production Period For Models:
The 16, 18, 20, and 30 designations were produced in various forms throughout the 1950s and early 1960s.
Manufacturing Location:
United Kingdom, typically Plumstead, London.