Hello everyone! As of 2 weeks ago, I am the very proud owner of a Douglas 2 3/4hp (W-20/W-22). It runs but needs parts and work. I would like to get it in safe riding condition and then work towards making it reasonably 'correct'. All help, parts sources, knowledge sources, and advice would be greatly appreciated.
I have owned and worked on motorcycles for decades but mostly German/Austrian bikes (BMW, Puch, Hercules). My British bike experience is limited to the complete restoration of a 1947 James ML and a 1942 Norton WD16 (which I still own and LOVE).
I have joined the Douglas club, and now this forum. Here are some photos taken of my bike at the swap meet where I purchased it (you say auto jumble yes?). Please let me know what I am missing, where I might find it, and any and all constructive comments.
Here in the USA, it can be difficult (and expensive) to acquire parts and information for British bikes older than the 1950s. I ordered a manual and parts list but they still have not arrived from overseas.
Currently, I THINK I need:
Stuff:
Valve/breather ? for the gearbox top
Duel clutch handle / lifter mount for the handlebar
Cap for the top of my Actlyene generator
Carb front air screen
Clutch cable (parts on order)
Front brake shoe/pad? replacements
Knowledge:
Wheel Bearings?-Help with understanding the adjustment(s)
Not sure if the gearbox is able to shift through the gears, hope to figure out adjustments
I need to figure out if the dent in my tank is repairable (I don't want to risk the tank, Does Anyone know of a spare for sale?)
Is my rear brake correct, it does not look like any photos I have seen.
I read that Douglas bought back many bikes from the military after the war, could my bike have any of these parts?
I have already had a break in the subframe repaired, new tyres purchased, an Acetylene generator and tail lamp purchased, a new fuel petcock purchased, a friend is sending me a burner jet for the headlamp, I have fixed the leak in the copper fuel line, Handlebars might be bent but I can live with that.
I am sure there is more to come. Thank you!!