[Q] Rebuilding a BMW basket case

[repost from Reeky & uk.rec.motorcycles.classic]

This ad recently appeared, almost exactly what I need to rebuild
my older (non-running) Dnepr MT-10/36 into something useful:

: BMW R 75-5 which is 90% complete with many additional parts
: and extras, including period hard bags, etc. Current BC registration.
: This bike requires complete restoration, or could be parted out.
: All for $1,500 OBO.

I called the seller and told him what I wanted to do, which he
said was not only doable but someone else local was working on
a similar project as well. He emailed:

Both motors are partly disassembled (top ends, anyway; crankcases
are intact). There are nearly enough parts to build a running R75
as well as the Denpr (but only one set of carbs). There's also
two swingarms (different lengths), driveshafts and differentials
(and an extra low-ratio rear end out of an R45 for use with a sidecar).

I called my favorite indie repair shop and the owner said (at first)
that he wouldn't touch it... then changed to "maybe" when I mentioned
that I had a Clymer (for older BMWs) and a Haynes 1970-1990 manual
covering the R75.

Well if even these pros (specializing in Japanese bikes) hesitate
then why should I think I can re-assemble the motor and install it
on my own? I've only ever taken one bike motor apart and
re-assembled it (my Honda S90, long ago). However, I do have time
and the use of a friend's garage. Am I dreaming or what?

Update - the seller emailed me some pix. It's basically
a basket case. Parts piled up on his basement floor.
Just looking at the pictures scares me.

This is gonna be some learning curve. And an exercise
in meditation. Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Reconstruction.
However, the motivation is that I want the end result.
Oh, groan. I really didn't have enough projects.

SQ

 

First thing is drag your bawlz out of that wheel barrow you haul them
in.

Then join BMWOA and pick the brains of the smart people. YOU CAN DO
IT!

btw what happened to the Dneper?