Big Engine swap?!?! 1100

[Jake]

Hello everyone.

I'm relatively new to the virago game, but a lifelong Yamaha racing man. Looking for some Input from seasoned techies in this department.

Recently picked up a MINT 87 xv535 (dual rear spring). Runs perfectly but has a nasty knock. Through some research I am thinking it's the cam bushing. But I have not yet opened it up.

Hoping to swap out the engine for another xv1100 I have laying around. I see the 1100 is much wider.. (similar to my xv750) has anyone done this swap before?

I am comfortable with fab, but do not want to jig the entire upper frame.

Any insight would be appreciated.

Ride on

[Jake]

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It’s never been done to my knowledge. There will be considerable fab work, the cylinder offset is different and I don’t think there is enough room on the backbone to accommodate the larger engine. You’ll also need to change TCIs, foot controls, who knows what else.

1100

9B25F166-39AC-426C-9F23-7C37098E9CE1.jpeg

535

B29F6503-940C-466E-AD55-50DF575B28B4.jpeg

[faffi]

Chances are the XVS650 engine will fit, but may need your engine covers. It is the same basic engine, the things making it appear longer are just empty covers.

[Jake]

Chances are the XVS650 engine will fit,

The question there is the XVS heads. Are they designed or capable of mounting to the 535 frame ? The XVS has a full frame, therefore the engine isn’t suspended from the backbone like the 535.

[faffi]

Good point. There are mounts on the heads of the XVS650 as well, and the cylinder head appear to be the same as for the 535, which should allow one to shift over brackets etc if needed. However, AFAIK, this is unproven territory and hence there will be potential risks involved.

[Hellgate]

Given enough time and money you can do anything, however, I think I'd pass on that swap.

[Flyingdog]

I think I'd pass on that swap.

Think I would too. 70° vs 75° But hey...that's just me. But like said...time, money and skill...damn near anything can be accomplished.