Just read this vary good Write up Muppdog.I also have a 84 xt600z and a 09tx660z and my old xt600 been havein a break and am doing some much need work,your right about the front brake its a bit crap!
looking forward to get it back on the road next year.And think the newer xt is a good bike Bit top heavy, and brakes that work just whish the rec/reg would last a bit longer but am stickin with it for now.