It looks like it's a 1957. It also sounds like a "new" jug is likely in your future.
I inherited my 1956 LI years ago. It was a smoker at the time. Took the jug off and to a local machine shop. Anyway new bore, new piston and rings, a little lapping of valves, and it runs fantatic! Mine is electric start, but the chain broke last fall. At the time I was miles from home but I did get it started with a pull on a improvised ratchet strap. Anyway it always starts on first pull so I haven't even put the new starter chain on. Just made a real original style pull strap.
With a little work yours should be a strong running machine too! Especially with your mechanical background. Good luck and have fun!
I inherited my 1956 LI years ago. It was a smoker at the time. Took the jug off and to a local machine shop. Anyway new bore, new piston and rings, a little lapping of valves, and it runs fantatic! Mine is electric start, but the chain broke last fall. At the time I was miles from home but I did get it started with a pull on a improvised ratchet strap. Anyway it always starts on first pull so I haven't even put the new starter chain on. Just made a real original style pull strap.
With a little work yours should be a strong running machine too! Especially with your mechanical background. Good luck and have fun!