1962 AJS 650cc model 31, matching numbers, good running project with V5C

1962 AJS 650cc Model 31, original eng, frame running project with V5C.
A later, alternator / magneto variant of the AJS model 31.
The 650cc had become much improved by this time with nodular iron crankshaft, high capacity oil pump, alternator electrics, duplex frame etc. This example appears to be basically unrestored and in the most part very very original. (Rims & spokes have clearly been replaced).
The bike has been standing for 12 years in a private collection. It was easy to get running, I just cleaned out carb jets, fuel taps, cleaned points and added fresh fuel and it fired up. The engine sounds good mechanically, no smoke no knocks. It starts well hot or cold. It ticks over ok, a little uneven but does however run very clean and smooth through the rev range and really goes very well indeed. Gears and clutch are all good, brakes are very good. Lighting works without a battery fitted so alternator is clearly charging OK. Smith's 120mph speedometer is working well.
The bike is not far off from being road worthy. It will require at least a very thorough service. I think it might be wise to strip the engine to clean it all out but then again this may be going a bit far. I note that the oil return is good. The high capacity oil pump scavenges extremely well.
The bike comes with an up to date V5C doc in my name. Registration 323XUF cannot be transferred to another vehicle. Frame number is A83639, engine number 31/x8181. There is a dating letter from AJS & Matchless Owners' Club which confirms this is the original engine to the bike. The bike is registered as a Historic Vehicle, therefore road tax is free and it is MOT exempt.
Cosmetically the bike is in good condition for age but I would say it's time for some improvements! The enamel on the frame looks to be the original in decent all round condition but with a few scratches and patches here and there that could do with touching up. Tin ware also clearly has light rust under the paint here and there and the paint has come away along the edges of the mudguards. I suppose these could be touched in but really all the tin-ware could do with a proper repaint. The tank has a scratch on the top left which has caused the paint to lift nearby. However the tank is certainly 100% fuel tight and is very good inside, and has not been linered.
Both wheel rims have been replaced at some time with CWC chrome rims and unpolished stainless spokes. The front rim is still pretty well perfect but the chrome has lifted in a couple of patches on the rear rim. Tyres are both unworn Avons but are both clearly very old and in need of replacement.
Seat is a very good one and looks possibly to be the original. There is no fin damage on the engine. There has been a small weld repair to the front of the crankcases which could have been better tidied up. It is oil-tight. Exhaust is practical but not shiny! Both sidestand and centre-stand with easy-on “lever” are fitted both are in good order.
I am selling this old AJS as a project, but full restoration may well not be needed. The buyer should at least anticipate an extended full service and through road safety check before returning to the road though. Selling as a very viable easy complete and running restoration project.
Please note: THERE IS NO VAT and no other additional fees on top of what you actually bid, (apart from delivery fees if you want it to be delivered).
Payment please in order of preference: Bank Transfer, Card Payment, Cash on Collection.
UK & WORLD-WIDE DELIVERY NO PROBLEM! Collection in person or delivery can be arranged. (Please note in fairness to the delivery companies I cannot arrange delivery until full payment for the bike has been received.)
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