Cars and trucks have the clutch on the end of the crankshaft...

There are advantages... the clutch can be much smaller and lighter as it only needs to resist about one third of the torque the trans mounted clutches we are used to... kind of a trade off though and a major disadvantage is can't kick start unless in neutral.

Curious if all the YDS2's were magnesium cased or just the Ascots?


.

This ad lists the magnesium crankcase as a feature
right after "18 inch wheels" and before
"chrome fenders"



I think all the early YDS"s have magnesium cases...
the early bikes shared lots of parts which is actually a big plus when trying to find parts.

yeah.I am aware of that. on a Motorcycle,I am just not a fan of that but that was how the YDS was built.

I worked in the automotive trade for almost 21 years and I put a few of them in.

Here's a close up view of the generator tag....



Since all looks good with the motor....

I ordered a gasket and a seal ,kit to freshen things up;



Since I have two top-ends.....
cast iron YDS2
and the correct aluminum YDSM Ascot top-end
I decided to make a pair of extra base gaskets (seen in process)
so I will have an extra set when I eventually install the aluminum jugs and heads

Here's some YDS VM24 carbs I plan to use.....

They need some cleanup ... but they are complete.



Not the correct carbs ....

but should work fine functionally to get the bike running...etc.

I'm liking this project bike. You won't see to many of these ever and ever and ever. Your doing a good job Dave M.

very well said Scooter! I am enjoying this build and appreciate what I am gleaning from it!

I too am really enjoying this build. As usual, Meis is doing things right so the outcome is pre-determined. I hope to get a chance to see this one done on one of the upcoming SoCal trip so:)

Unfortunately, it has now added a new search term to my Craigslist account . . .

Thanks for the kind words and the encouragement.

I have been learning a lot as I go.....it's definitely fun and interesting.

Here's a video of early YDS production.....you can see what appears to a gold Grand Prix 250

roll off the assembly line



This is interesting stuff !

Old Ascot kicking some Ass in 2010