A Comprehensive Guide to Removing the Starter from a 1969 Honda CB350 K1

Introduction

The 1969 Honda CB350 K1 is a classic motorcycle that has been enjoyed by riders for decades. However, even the most reliable machines can experience problems, and one common issue is a faulty starter. If you find yourself in this situation, don't worry – removing the starter from a CB350 K1 is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and a bit of patience.

Before You Start

Materials Required:

• 10mm socket wrench
• 12mm socket wrench
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Flathead screwdriver
• Contact cleaner
• Rags
• Safety glasses

Safety Precautions:

• Always wear safety glasses when working on your motorcycle.
• Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery before beginning any work.
• Allow the engine to cool completely before starting any work.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Disconnect the Battery

Locate the negative terminal of the battery and loosen the nut that secures the cable. Remove the cable from the terminal and set it aside.

2. Remove the Seat

Locate the two bolts that secure the seat to the frame and remove them. Lift the seat off the motorcycle and set it aside.

3. Remove the Side Cover

Locate the two bolts that secure the side cover to the frame and remove them. Lift the side cover off the motorcycle and set it aside.

4. Locate the Starter

The starter is located on the right side of the engine, behind the side cover. It is a black cylindrical object with two wires connected to it.

5. Disconnect the Starter Wires

Use a 10mm socket wrench to loosen the nuts that secure the starter wires to the starter. Remove the wires from the starter.

6. Remove the Starter Bolts

Use a 12mm socket wrench to loosen the two bolts that secure the starter to the engine. Remove the bolts.

7. Remove the Starter

Carefully lift the starter off the engine. Be careful not to damage the starter or the engine.

8. Clean the Starter

Use a contact cleaner and a rag to clean the starter. Be sure to clean the electrical contacts on the starter.

9. Inspect the Starter

Inspect the starter for any signs of damage. If you find any damage, you may need to replace the starter.

10. Reinstall the Starter

Insert the starter into the engine. Secure the starter with the two bolts. Tighten the bolts to 12 ft-lbs.

11. Connect the Starter Wires

Connect the starter wires to the starter. Tighten the nuts to 10 ft-lbs.

12. Reinstall the Side Cover

Reinstall the side cover on the motorcycle. Secure the side cover with the two bolts. Tighten the bolts to 8 ft-lbs.

13. Reinstall the Seat

Reinstall the seat on the motorcycle. Secure the seat with the two bolts. Tighten the bolts to 6 ft-lbs.

14. Reconnect the Battery

Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery to the battery. Tighten the nut to 8 ft-lbs.

Benefits of Removing the Starter

• Troubleshooting: Removing the starter allows you to inspect the starter and diagnose any problems.
• Replacement: If the starter is damaged, you can easily remove it and replace it with a new one.
• Maintenance: Removing the starter allows you to clean and lubricate the starter, which can extend its lifespan.

Why It Matters

The starter is an essential component of your motorcycle. Without a functioning starter, you will not be able to start your motorcycle.

Tips and Tricks

• If you are having difficulty removing the starter, you can use a penetrating oil to loosen the bolts.
• Be careful not to damage the electrical contacts on the starter.
• If you are not comfortable removing the starter yourself, you can take your motorcycle to a mechanic.

FAQs

• Q: How long does it take to remove the starter from a 1969 Honda CB350 K1?
  • A: It should take approximately 2-3 hours to remove the starter from a 1969 Honda CB350 K1.
• Q: Can I remove the starter without disconnecting the battery?
  • A: No, it is important to disconnect the battery before removing the starter.
• Q: Do I need to replace the starter if it is damaged?
  • A: Not necessarily, you may be able to repair the starter if it is damaged. However, if the starter is severely damaged, you may need to replace it.
• Q: How often should I clean and lubricate the starter?
  • A: It is a good idea to clean and lubricate the starter every 3,000-5,000 miles.
• Q: Can I use a different starter on my 1969 Honda CB350 K1?
  • A: Yes, you can use a different starter on your 1969 Honda CB350 K1, but you may need to make some modifications to the wiring.

Call to Action

If you are experiencing problems with the starter on your 1969 Honda CB350 K1, don't hesitate to remove the starter and inspect it. Removing the starter is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and a bit of patience.