i have a 1979 fxr that i just got it wont run and when you turn the engine over it dumps massive amounts of oil out of what looks like an oil overflow tube is this normal for this bike

 

it is normal to loose oil because from sitting it goes by the check valve and gets pumped out the breather. catch the overflow with a drain pan.

once started it should stop in a few seconds- up to a minute. then you should do an oil and filter change.
as far as it not running? well you should have a manual and trouble-shoot.

let me know how things work out for you.

 

If this massive amount of oil doesn't stop after changing oil/filter and the oil in the tankkeepsempting out we have an oil pump issue I think it is just oil sitting in the bottom end (from sitting)

 

hi Digger,
did you get a good deal on the bike?
what dose the previous owner have to tell you about it not running, could he be of some help?

fresh battery, fuel, fuel filter, oil, check compression, check all oil lines for cracks and that they are tight same with the fuel lines. if it has fat bobs there is a vent cross over under the dash that should be looked at.
a buddy of mine burned his bike up cause of that hose and an electrical short under the dash.

if its been setting for a long time maybe clean the float bowl and after you drain the oil take a look inside with a flashlight to see what maybe lurking on the bottom for the tank.
sometimes the check valve {ball and spring can be replaced to remedy the draining back in the crank case.
good luck and keep us posted

 

I agree with Rodney. It is common for oil to flow out of the breather if bike has been sitting a long time, but as said above this should stop after bike is running. It caused as too much oil leaks down into the crank case.

As for not running - after you change the oil, filter and gas - I would first check to see if your problem is lack of gas or spark. And as said above it would be good toknow if bike ran before it was stored away (orif a running problem was the reason the bike had not been used). If the bike was running before it sat for a while primary places to start are points (unless someone has put in electronic ignition)and condenser if no spark and carb if no fuel.