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Makotosun

Recommendation for great restoration shops in the Midwest

  • ht1dt2dt3
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It finally time to start restoring some of my childhood memories.  I have a 1971 HT1 90cc, 1972 DT250, and a 1973 DT360.  All are in decent shape and running, but I want to bring them back to their original glory.  Looking for feedback from forum members who have recently had bikes restored and/or know of a great shop that is fair and does good work on the older Yamaha's.  Appreciate all thoughts and suggestions. 
Last edit: 15 Jul 2025 12:24 by ht1dt2dt3. Reason: typo
15 Jul 2025 12:22 #1

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Just for future reference, if your 360 is a '73, it is an RT-3 360. Your '72 250 should be a DT-2 250. Might seem irrelevant, but can be important for getting parts.
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15 Jul 2025 13:43 #2

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If you decide to do this yourself you will enjoy the experience. Lots of help available on this forum.
Also I have many NOS and early take off parts for the '71-'73 250 and 360 Enduros. Send me a PM if you're interested.
The hours spent riding my Enduros is not deducted from my life span.
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15 Jul 2025 16:18 #3

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Thanks for the responses.  I have done quite a bit of wrenching to get these running, but I am at the point where I just don't have the time to finish them.  Most of the work that needs to be done is cosmetic and that's not my thing.  And I'm no spring chicken. My dream of riding them on a on/off road trip is quickly coming to a sunset.  I'd appreciate any recommendations for a great restoration shop. Thanks.  
15 Jul 2025 18:55 #4

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Greetings from Tennessee 

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15 Jul 2025 20:14 #5

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HT1DT2DT3- It's called "delegating your authority". I am in the same position now, with advancing years and limited time to ride, let alone wrench, on the bikes we enjoy. Pick you battles!

If you are looking for "cosmetic" help we are probably talking about paint. I am trying to think of an outfit closer to you than me (I'm in NH) that is supposed to do great work (they were recommended to me for a '68 DT1 at one point). If I can dig out the name I'll shoot you a PM.
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16 Jul 2025 06:30 #6

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Tim Rains at 2 Brothers paint in OK is one of the best for paint.  www.facebook.com/p/2-Brothers-100054407174044/

I think they might do full restorations too?  You'd have to ask.

Marbles Motors is another source that does full restoration and sells paint to the DIY crowd or someone who wants to have their paint guy do the work and needs a fairly accurate OEM color match. Randy Marbles sold the business recently I think but they still restore bikes.  Maybe in TX?  Not sure.  
1963 YG1-T, 1965 MG1-T, Allstate 250, 1970 CT1b, 1971 R5, 1973 AT3MX, 1974 TS400L, 1975 RD350, 1976 DT175C, 1976 Husqvarna 250CR, 1981 DT175G, 1988 DT50, 1990 "Super" DT50, 1991 RT180, 2017 XT250
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16 Jul 2025 13:20 #7

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Yes!! 2 Brothers is who I was thinking of. Thank you, Mark! 

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Randy Marbles supplied the paint for the '68 DT1 I am finishing. Expensive stuff but supposedly as 'correct' as can be had. Did not know he had been bought out, hope the new owner will continue in the same vein as Randy.
He always seemed to have a strong affection for the similar year Honda models as well.

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17 Jul 2025 05:51 #8

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Gents,
Thanks for the info. I will check both of them out. Both TX and OK are doable. My son goes to school down there too so could make for a good road trip. Appreciate your input.
18 Jul 2025 18:53 #9

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