Motorcycle Repair: shovelhead rebuild, old school style, straight pipes

Question
Mike:
I am in the process of restoring an old school style chopper. The frame is a rigid 1978 Jammer. the motor is a 1980 shovelhead. The motor has been removed and is ready for teardown and inspection. The motor is a kicker and started and ran good all summer. I put about 2000 miles on it last summer. On long rides I noticed a leak under the rocker box on the front cylinder, additionally, I noticed blue smoke from the rear cylinder, coming out of the exhaust. The blue smoke was evident at idle at stop lights as well as when I was throttling up. I am running straight pipes and an S&S carb.
My question is what type of cost can I expect if I bring the entire motor to a machine shop/harley mechanic for teardown/inspection and repair and paint?
Johnny from Boston

Answer
Your problem is worn pistons or valve guides and that is why it is smoking. If you are interested, i would be more than glad to give you a price on your rebuild. I have rebuild shovels from all over the country. i dont paint the motors, i powdercoat them. Lasts alot longer and it very hard. If you would like a price, send me a e-mail at [email protected]
As to the cost, it is very hard for me to say due to the fact that there are different labor prices all over the country. Most dealers will charge a higher labor cost over the small shops. My best advise would be to shop around.
Good luck and happy riding
Mike