Honda-SOHC

SOHC.co.uk Forums => Project Board => Topic started by: Northy on October 09, 2018, 08:02:44 PM

Title: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on October 09, 2018, 08:02:44 PM
Right any purist please look way now before you go mad and say why wreck cb400f and make special out of it .

OH also long thread alert …if your bored just look at the pictures ;-) Oh will be lots of typos as well   :D

Why a 400 four ,well back in 70/80 I created this and number of variations and still had standard yellow one VKK 333S.
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f90/Nor123thy/Bikes/Mine/honda442-1.jpg) (http://s45.photobucket.com/user/Nor123thy/media/Bikes/Mine/honda442-1.jpg.html)

 I sold the bike in 1993  for £350 plus a mountain of spares (DOH !! ) well the engine had done over 150k, was on its second frame, iffy wiring and even the ARE alloy wheels where a bent in places. Ironically nothing I couldn’t fix now. So some 30 yrs on , my spannering skills are better than that poor cheeky kid on the “flying tampon” as mates  used to call it. Its was called Mr Sinx, after our cat (bloody vicious thing!)

Well at the time of writing I have two other 400f that are rolling restorations. 2 frames and yet another mountain of part worn 400 bits. Also over the last few years done a few restoration to high standard and a couple of specials.(read I’m handy with spanner and a picky sod too)

So this will be a recreation of Mr Snix but I might move away from the clip ons etc , so more like the Mocheck Harrier (to save my back & wrists). So I’ve already have picture of how it will look in my head and I know what I need but finding them and making them fit is the fun bit  (need a set of Alloys)   

So where does ones start with just frame, engine and plie of bits …the carbs of course. I needed a clean set for one of the other bike which was suffering odd running.(turned out to be the coils). The Bike bits had been sitting for excess of 7yrs in  garage (working one with sooty diesel, brake dust and damp etc )  So the carb where stripped right down 


(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f90/Nor123thy/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13251_zpsblq1k48c.jpg) (http://s45.photobucket.com/user/Nor123thy/media/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13251_zpsblq1k48c.jpg.html)

Tip one , don’t disassemble the rod mechanism if don’t have to. The rod that runs across the carbs to link them together runs in two bronze bushes. However there is also a brass pin in one mount that hold the bush in place and locates pin on the rod. To remove the rod you need to drill out this brass pin or the bush with break up if you try to remove the rod. However drilling out the pin a PTA its only 3mm dia and can easy go into the ally mounting. See picture even drilling the pin didn’t help cracked anyway!!
So some clean carbs , a with re-plated metal bits. I used stainless bolts and this not going to standard anyway.

(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f90/Nor123thy/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13255_zpst9jjzbwx.jpg) (http://s45.photobucket.com/user/Nor123thy/media/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13255_zpst9jjzbwx.jpg.html) 
Good job I've spare set of carbs

So next engine, I wasn’t expecting great things from this. The clock said it had done 43,000 miles and it showed signs of previous split cases and nasty bodges. As I was  stripping this down to last bits, I didn’t bother deep cleaning it before hand

(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f90/Nor123thy/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13260_zpsu3tl8h4h.jpg) (http://s45.photobucket.com/user/Nor123thy/media/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13260_zpsu3tl8h4h.jpg.html)
Ohh err
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f90/Nor123thy/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13266_zpsaq5uqxvv.jpg) (http://s45.photobucket.com/user/Nor123thy/media/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13266_zpsaq5uqxvv.jpg.html)

The thread on bolt that locks cam chain adjuster had been chewed up badly but managed to heli coil it. Phew

Spot the odd one out
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f90/Nor123thy/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13264_zpsbfbktbk5.jpg) (http://s45.photobucket.com/user/Nor123thy/media/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13264_zpsbfbktbk5.jpg.html)

Two head bolt where finger tight and the cam chain was starting chew its way into the adjuster (they all do that sir). Which is why there was no wear on the guides.
Then the good news the clutch looked like new. I even found my old home made clutch holding tool in the not use often “tool box” last used  25 yrs ago

(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f90/Nor123thy/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13270_zps7gbfv2pu.jpg) (http://s45.photobucket.com/user/Nor123thy/media/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13270_zps7gbfv2pu.jpg.html)

The primary chain, is very sloppy and need a new one of those. The bore was OK , with marking where the piston had been and still on standard piston bit all looking a bit tied with one broken ring. I measured them all up and there just outside the recommended tolerances, could put new std piston and new rings  and it would run but it deserves a rebore.

(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f90/Nor123thy/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13271_zpsueapejbn.jpg) (http://s45.photobucket.com/user/Nor123thy/media/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13271_zpsueapejbn.jpg.html)
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f90/Nor123thy/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13273_zpsr4ghl074.jpg) (http://s45.photobucket.com/user/Nor123thy/media/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13273_zpsr4ghl074.jpg.html)


So do I go for the oversized 54mmbore kit or just take it 0.25mm OS. The cost using kits from Cruzinimage_uk is the same. I tempted by the big bore (sounds good and gains brownie point when talking bollocks at the cafe)  but then reality kicks in and its only  on a 400  if I need to go faster there’s an modern 750 in garage.   However welcome your thought on this ??.


There was much sludge in sump and bottom of the cases but hardly any metal bits …all good.

Main bearings all Ok but the big end showing wear so they will be replaced ….bloody expensive at £10.74  per half shell ….
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f90/Nor123thy/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13295_zpsxblwui40.jpg) (http://s45.photobucket.com/user/Nor123thy/media/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13295_zpsxblwui40.jpg.html)

All the valves have been removed and the head looks in fine shape no damaged fins, rocker spindles with bit of wear and valve seats good.Cams  all good , wear but nothing  bad.
So no sheared screws or bolts, expect general wear no nasty surprises and only two threads required a helicol. I do them when I see on strip down as the stuff is going to be cleaned after so any bits of ally get washed away.  Not bad at all it would have run no doubt but no very well.

Tip 2  Rotor removal is required for replace the end seal and best  done once the crank removed,. you can’t do without splitting the cases due to the lip on the seal. You could take a hammer to it, dig out the special tool (if you have one ) with a 18x1.5 thread it to “pull” the rotor  off. However the thread a size is the same of many car sump plug or Lamaba sensor plugs available for £2.  Sorted !!   


Next ……the case of clean the cases!!
     
Got quoted £140  to vapour blast the  cases,head. barrels etc  .......Sod that, out with chemicals.
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: SumpMagnet on October 09, 2018, 08:19:21 PM
Personally..I have no issue with someone restoring an old bike in a less than standard way. The way I see it, you have put another old bike back on the road, rather than let it rust away in a shed somewhere. Or worse...restored it and then stuck it on a turntable never to run again...just to be looked at.

Back in the day, I hardly ever had a 'stock' bike and instead had aftermarket seats, bars, fairings, shocks, fork braces and all the other tat the fashion trends said you had to have.

On top of that...you are making something personal to you....Hope it ends up as good as you remember!

Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Trigger on October 09, 2018, 08:55:12 PM
Nowt wrong with those crank case shells from the picture, measure them up  ;) Much cheaper than new ones  ;D
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on October 09, 2018, 10:36:03 PM
its big end that have gone ...I'll  get some piccy's of those.
 
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Bryanj on October 10, 2018, 01:17:05 AM
If the cranks worn its toast cos you cant regrind them or rather if you do there are no shells made
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on October 14, 2018, 05:12:06 PM
Crank is good , see piccy

(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f90/Nor123thy/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13453_zps1oynhv7k.jpg)[/URL]][/img]

Big ends look like this , worn but nothing nasty
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f90/Nor123thy/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13457_zpsou0s4xen.jpg)[/URL][/img]

Just new shells needed.All david silver was offering  at stafford was £1 delivery for order placed at the show and I've long list of stuff I need could remember it all.

Set of cases nearly ready for painting , mainly used paint striper , small wire bush  attachment , then wash in thinner , will need another clean (http://[URL=http://s45.photobucket.com/user/Nor123thy/media/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13458_zpskaecfohl.jpg.html][IMG]http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f90/Nor123thy/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13458_zpskaecfohl.jpg)[/URL][/img]

Been working on the manky side covers ...getting there slowly
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f90/Nor123thy/Bikes/CB400F%20Special/SDC13463_zpsywqbirrc.jpg)[/URL][/img]





Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on November 12, 2018, 05:35:38 PM
Ok having be side tracked with decorating time , its time to move on with Mr Snix

Ok cases clean up,
(https://beta-static.photobucket.com/images/f90/Nor123thy/0/41d989c0-aa96-4805-b8a8-13cb5aec7f3f-original.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://beta.photobucket.com/u/Nor123thy/p/41d989c0-aa96-4805-b8a8-13cb5aec7f3f)


Sprayed , gloss black , used Hycote engine enamel  not too bad and re-plated my engine bolts  but  they just would shine up very well , suspect too cold a solution, the angle held in electrolyte and they were rough to start with.
(https://beta-static.photobucket.com/images/f90/Nor123thy/0/216f0d47-8975-4957-9027-3969c92f8c43-original.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://beta.photobucket.com/u/Nor123thy/p/216f0d47-8975-4957-9027-3969c92f8c43)


Having sussed out then I had Yellow big end shells (oh or misses) I was going to go like for like as they weren’t that worn but suspect that I could go up to green set. I re-measured and seemed to playing for ever with plastigauge, clever but all  doing up  undo , do up undo  etc etc is PITA  and  all  to confirm my initial thought and go for green. So a large order was placed with Mr Silver. Luckily in the stash of shares was a new cam chain, two guides but no primary chain.


The head showing signs of the broken ring on No 2  pot  but nothing scary
(https://beta-static.photobucket.com/images/f90/Nor123thy/0/8e61f557-f7ac-4f90-9a67-50a7f3e85bc5-original.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)[/URL][/img]
Note the heads not be been cleaned properly at this piont,and will take a skim off the head. 
 

Here’s  a thing valve collets, they must the experts in sod’s law , get one and the other falls out. Normally I  work of Guzzi heads and there massive compared to the 400.   

Here my tool for grinding in valves, then car rubber sucker ones just too big  for tiny 400 valves    (https://beta-static.photobucket.com/images/f90/Nor123thy/0/d9a2c821-f29b-48d0-a75f-1dcc6f5d9ac0-original.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://beta.photobucket.com/u/Nor123thy/p/d9a2c821-f29b-48d0-a75f-1dcc6f5d9ac0)
   

Whilst waiting for engine paint go off and waiting on spares, I turned my attention to the frame. I’ve choice of F1 or F2  frame, so which  one  to use. The biggest factor was the F2 had  a log book , still to apply to F1  frame. 
The ultimate in  a 400 special is a 4 into 4  system and thus the F1  frame might be better one to  do that with, however having had  4 into  4 fitted in past it was PITA  and reduced my ground clearance  to zero.
The lay out the sump/ frame etc  makes it hard to do, So its 4 into 1  it is for this baby.

So F2 frame is stripped and then I started on rear sets, using the old pair of tarozzio rear sets and mount plates in my spares stash. It’s all rough and ready at this point just  to ensure everything works. So its looks a bit rusty and manky at present.
(https://beta-static.photobucket.com/images/f90/Nor123thy/0/bc081312-4dd4-4474-ba5d-edb03cb45e97-original.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://beta.photobucket.com/u/Nor123thy/p/bc081312-4dd4-4474-ba5d-edb03cb45e97)

Next for frame is a  “new “  set of forks of  CB400N   ie double disc and box section swing arm,(Note that brand new dresda box section one sold for over £200 on evil bay ) and may need some wheels .

It’s going have ally wheels and not comstars and as Maitland racing no long stock ARE (ally racing eqpt) wheels that were made in Cardiff in early 80’s .  I did ask !!! it was what Mr Snix had originally fitted.   So it will have a double discs and maybe even a rear one.

As  for wheels I have set of GPZ400 lying around and the front wheel popped onto the CB400N forks easy, same spindle size and just need to mill down the space a bit each side . However the Discs might not line up with the any calipers. So which muppet sold the GPZ400 ones on ebay a year ago. I suspect I might go for a set of modern calipers.

(https://beta-static.photobucket.com/images/f90/Nor123thy/0/91eda0e3-c9d7-48a1-b3a8-48e3ba2f5ca0-original.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://beta.photobucket.com/u/Nor123thy/p/91eda0e3-c9d7-48a1-b3a8-48e3ba2f5ca0)

The rear wheel is different matter ,the GPZ400 wheel has a massive rear disc and the hub is plain too fat and would need to remove 7 mm from the sprocket carrier ,not in impossible but would remove to much ally on the carrier . Added to this just doesn’t fit well with the overall look of the bike , the massive disc  and hub
(https://beta-static.photobucket.com/images/f90/Nor123thy/0/bb7228a0-752b-4b96-a5bd-dd84f0a01c83-original.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://beta.photobucket.com/u/Nor123thy/p/bb7228a0-752b-4b96-a5bd-dd84f0a01c83)

So I’ll be paying a visit to local bike breakers , with a tape measure, looking for  set of wheels, swing arm, brakes  etc. That will be messy as Larry’s place is not known for clean washed parts (they go in dirty and get dirtier) and much hunting.i.e Honda wheels – “ in that pile over there”

Then the fun starts and it should easier to play the  frame without an the engine in it (noting sprocket alignment)   

OH BTW  Rock horse poo item . clutch adjuster
 
(https://beta-static.photobucket.com/images/f90/Nor123thy/0/8fd73f21-fa8d-4d98-bfce-64d64fd3308b-original.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://beta.photobucket.com/u/Nor123thy/p/8fd73f21-fa8d-4d98-bfce-64d64fd3308b)

Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on January 26, 2019, 08:13:09 PM
So what have I’ve been  doing ?…..well this arrived just before Christmas  and I just had to play with it , its runs and is on the road.(stood for 25yrs)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xmImDpddc-NN5gXc5kfkXPMQZhxPRSEdv0O_u1dEIiUtHSPq6Bi6j3qnIi2vhBb_92Meo6vX5sOZLJv-icwLgFmFyrsAzwF7iE3GzZquBEFWPxw27bg2dVsdqaEgITx67Urb5sNwUYwp_V2455UaStLdHHwq1PJbVMVGsEr1LFor5PeyM_VvPe_gnsE9pofF2mkoyQ6kLVlzY-2soOhPiy-_NlaKimLu2PPiqYmFKTr0K0Yp5Sce_XCYFNf9cDHczSQTDL2Cm9nzgPdcsXMKjURRFE_PkbNhNxQG291mecUhfKSKtnQmqkWrKlBmNaZeAlSFs4zkmB4WNFr7ecj4TP4Qp_0bpODEdch4Kbce10h3z0xhjNSKPIeLEGnsCvdJ-ogE5_EqgltnZzZdhN4jMB6qm0Sui-Ulv1CvJ0tcncMnQPp98oUWgFK019poNQows1Rdd_QDeMJLyvgR0WfGDX5bci8WaPhgOwHYmpb5SEgfP77HF5lKxrHVufHSa4WZxWxclWKoUM-AA4hpc8hM089cNZedm--IQbYZmv8J7SVp-vZY46at6tY9l7AH_9mUY7gBcrgM7yavtWs9rCX6sxGPkciRvOrm4pFSWusFOud2qK58D_9OmDMxrE1ljAuP37LIx--95VGgxGO2YwnYhdG1=w1168-h875-no)
(appear date on camera is 10yrs out)

Then Christmas and a stinky cold arrived.

So back to Cb400F  special

I had by now given up any hope of set of alloys for bike and was starting on std hub , double discs laced to flanged ally rims ..mock up with manky wheels.   
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/MV2XPUD33uIR0famAZHWXe50dLsrwXGnyIWYEuX4q4vfo7LbV4_rI6VCiIEXOmMW20F2NHSHil8lH09PvXI7z3601nivt082YzPa6skPnX7moIHZik3cjgkRmLeBYdzKFnE9-U-0nJOEOtKC3NrKHwgMshQFZ3K2M-R7fldag1dFjn6Rh4uyL4T376BU9ziOMIAqjrI8o71SWBmGI1TaqktiWxmayppUsPz_9Gl-gfVjArqLGb2mLCLMM674SwRxuFsfT7ewjhmLOQfSxv77dwatHh_Yh8fu5IgwS7OYpp4tt5h1_rx6yAfyV0i-7l75TEfpUHiVbXPtoRthXFwZ4WOocX7YBGzFoyeGNykSdyLdiGNzuBY5h7YXROfYtl75Z4qsutcPuphcw3moMuCBg9-vdPm-1ABfbVWK8WdteWQKCuDz2Ovi12dsnHQVvKjw9SsnMop2EK4YrMru2pDdBEa51xLJbseXgOBcRH56UfT7dhwMrcWLCDQ_1018j_ylB40cVKdtgNY_rmb94qD8ovLin24EqAGkdBd5aP3xw2LZckEXtJ_qCpsIgolk7iOfBpHSO1UClHo3QmUA3G5xFd5mwAUYYJm0bxTo7Ix6MG2E4ANEYWLhqUmMDlbviNZ4mXoi8_APZimCqK9ivpU7WdVP=w1168-h875-no)

Then a set of ARE wheels, which needed work, appeared on ebay …and didn’t win them went for silly money y, but in a jammy git moment a set of CMA wheels appeared on Ebay  for about 1 hr  and were snapped up. In good condition one bearing need replacing and the black paint black came off to relieve 2  shades of gold , one red and finally grey, assume primer. So they are ready for painting but too cold for that.  Piccy shows a lovely home made washer that sits behind the large circlip …..

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/OrS6Gp7Jy9vJMJRAzxNdG04dxXXZZ3fbglF8RnD4FKC4KqxwkC5vijANtjip4SVa6H9UUoda3guIV1IX-IMYbzZD4oOURO0ePR5RwLhiOReHJVv1NR5rsCaHXEjKKYq9pQcQ_R7imVJTc9L3VrCdosYTditwf8RbCR5nto8SEieKn_ZD9dW-KzMKbScWgGVowa2v7V59rdArFwenn7w_Q_BAnaeFxDnzEP_8tI7RFxHGb5rmehymhqfe10e0qpkeAWaaTAb9_ZVuq3q6KvJCCQ0g43YMXaDV5KWnFmDZlBC_-W1O9mLcOZF4uRMxk6GWgRjEzFms1BqSC26Z5KC3g00alp1K2_2mRaHeG0QYivGcjrM3tB2rycmnS8iKT6n7OxsYlsoNXh-pRMFXDjRcqfFouxmg5UstUJqC3AR3HyfcN3CpUVEEHiBVDvobstAgDOEyy_pqMl-RxLsRIlF8QumFr8c-kYavmEnQcAr8jjn6dJ96GBlzC18SAXkXQZtYuiq8hjnzaZ9rqf6C7KuFrK6WoLUqFMR3O3wXZLwSrZvMkBDRWsMvhvvlRTrgFdAIflUq8i3B9JXuLv85ZjgqFWPYwwX0AOQCUzgj_NfFXYkQpn-ZJe3BoJWy8y4qtYK55CkHtQFOOvfYYxWVY-BuaMRX=w1168-h875-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7wpvWGano5rHLdqNpBp1p9ovOn45X1Uv_FDVjtXS7VNrCOTV5wOHVZZMjHmYwz5FH_EXJ1wv02MMB54w3q0ZX7vlHaAw7_ZuNpFUTXxRmZullVL-WB6dFL7TbvAceDPdNbv6Wr8pysMG01pRWxDdtvHanPW_kRMynES2CMXy4CanerNrAqNrJICT-YDfxpE0m-0M5NMcZphh4uG-au0VFz-nBzlbA87CGLTtjYp6inM_0cVOWvSleBTWWigpXHXbmDGC-z9t-J7rBfRGyIOQSZoS8CryyjxEDemoELPjQb0slS1vEb7hxNcL3nM5oNkXN2l3-HubgWQ-vSo2SLvU3Rpy9lqsVNybo7u_sCHRREBDamIpMySqIRKEOHvqyp2l8XM_2giKHRGbdlSU3VvRz9STRBBDqQsWioEppekmbwTeYkmqv6tE3vxRKTNlgNhIKpDQfGULoPiUXllBQpkf0phKK5_6erg14exQFe-ZQ6T-moIUFzc3rB4lni6MetWL1pToaJ2JVg5D0uqCSj0UtzDFnhzrpb2SDAs3_fy31PnC5gOEwWUL9srcGDw1yK5Hy4-bPPfEQ9N--JClYSuOinPKoLBCWBodsL14OuztIhKrOYwcW2bbjEe0_P0x9tHqCqEic7SJvmzavcEdrS3BXkx=w1168-h875-no)



OK sort  out the forks , discs and calipers …….let nightmare start.

First off the caliper pistons from a second hand set off ebay (CB400N ones) had seized, one popped out with lots of heat and compressed air. The other one despite being soaked required more radical action . Weld a bolt to piston and using a set of spacers pulled it out. One new piston required.

Forks were a set of Cb400N one that I had and knew there was some play on them and I thought new bushes …however these  earlier one don’t have bushes both leg and slider  were worn …..search  ebay again for set of forks. Found set but the description was iffy, even though I phone the guy to check there was no play, these were later type with bushes but one was missing ..sloppy fit or what.   

Discs  CB 400N have 5 holes CB400f have 4 holes ……drill hub ? or  drill disc chose the later

Speedo drive :-  Nearly gave up on this and was moving to using digital speedo and as used  on lavukitangomonty (bit of orange for you)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ufv32k7VZR-pvAmKHlBdnMnLTIjkJ9zDV1wx75tLd4zsaxC851b6G_j-50S-JFtt5gEiUVLBak_07yQMFVXQViDEiVtXdZ9PuomtwEgH7wlOtjgpPws7ECYz3ersWVuOyyGzBXQuX4PSWQt4dmu8MQXjqiiy9u8oCUxPQX6665gVk0deySg8KPG0vb8QPSCSRCo0RI_rW2Jl2b1R9-PzuknJkfnsMjFXbIL7i4OKdBmVVJXWuvwF5pA-CdHB3-DYBVzFeyE2cjp0kby9mhwaGyZVvJIJ4D2vYIQ9AWKxt8DRwGA8usTCoDm3SOB85pc-vTYz60BSXl5j0xAvP3OBZNBOEd9PmX_Wa4dML9Y7ySwn2j2njqn_OHfJZqmGAWZA1Nxmrb7ida44GyTrPl_dECFeh8ybLcGHaJSPB_RuGDCLdTNqDqFzvx0I0qh57hnSdNnrL5fKfdUrdqxEVzetzU17eHpcwza5OMKbrgnIjj_9Ldgx3yKG4h4397YnlhVYZDHnP3hZ9vRhCJ4nZqmwBkYbjy-VhsG_TG-DpoaarsYQSqwLkSIqbIOWxxdsgHqNUZTgbbdpllJ8U267g_5COK76WLRQmmQrw5-xYF-3NLzQCrD-2z8VUa4-zd6JLjo9fr8J6kBPcZIdQkkp3vXlYlzx=w657-h875-no)

The problem being the standard 400F speedo drive output is straight while cb400N is angled to get past the disc but is 5 mm too fat to allow the wheel to be central. Simple remove 5 mm from drive unit , reshape the worm drive to match , make up tab to drive the speedo ….simple took most of a morning and still a tight fit.

Right back to the fame , need to go to powder coater…but what colour ? . I would have liked a dark candy red  this was expensive and would be hard to get  a consistent finish  and I had  things like brake disc/calipers  etc which  I wanted in the same colour. So boring flat red but what shade .

Right time warp back  to  1980  Mr Snix  frame is paint in Massy Ferguson red , later 1983 following an incident with some gravel and a car. The new frame was painted Ford velvet red (burgundy) However the old girl was later used every day transport and the frame once again reverted to bright red. …so which colour, your’ll have to wait on that :-)   

Old bike back in 1993 just before behind  sold , have guess how much ? .....bloody muppet I am.

(https://beta-static.photobucket.com/images/f90/Nor123thy/Bikes/Mine/last400f.jpg) (https://beta.photobucket.com/u/Nor123thy/p/cb3cb91e-92af-4b5b-b335-1449714d2373)

    So  frame is how with the coaters and just for good measure  I stripped out my red 400/4  so the frame could done as well , its cold and not much is being done. There are two set of 400/4 in boxes and plan is work on the red 400/4 .So there will be another gap in installments.
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on April 11, 2019, 08:40:44 PM
So what have I being doing !

Well 4  weeks later my two frame and bits arrived back from the coaters but give I was paying mates rates I'll let them off.

Firstly had whack this one together ...come up very nice.


(https://beta-static.photobucket.com/images/f90/Nor123thy/0/a1fac46c-8c47-4a17-934a-57e8de8280b5-original.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://beta.photobucket.com/u/Nor123thy/p/a1fac46c-8c47-4a17-934a-57e8de8280b5)

Had already been working on the wheels ....hint of the frame , black center stand is just for the build , will not be fitted to final product

(https://beta-static.photobucket.com/images/f90/Nor123thy/0/e7eed13a-a3f3-4c91-a07a-e394a1195366-original.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://beta.photobucket.com/u/Nor123thy/p/e7eed13a-a3f3-4c91-a07a-e394a1195366)

Next engine in frame , the usual trick of everything laying on it side ....pig as the powder coat was tad thick in places

(https://beta-static.photobucket.com/images/f90/Nor123thy/0/d5b00645-7210-427f-aad5-100ee23f2168-original.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://beta.photobucket.com/u/Nor123thy/p/d5b00645-7210-427f-aad5-100ee23f2168)

Next up electrics and some wheels etc .
Wiring will be tidied up ass changing all those bullet connectors for multi block ones. 

(https://beta-static.photobucket.com/images/f90/Nor123thy/0/67539d13-3e2d-4b4e-a589-886122e21800-original.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://beta.photobucket.com/u/Nor123thy/p/67539d13-3e2d-4b4e-a589-886122e21800)]

(https://beta-static.photobucket.com/images/f90/Nor123thy/0/2f35286f-b3d0-46df-b891-7c2d89cbf170-original.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://beta.photobucket.com/u/Nor123thy/p/2f35286f-b3d0-46df-b891-7c2d89cbf170)]

Note the bars are upright,(no clip-ons)  which its self has caused an issue in that the brake lines purchase a way back for CB400n  are too short, add to fact the top yoke sits a tad taller on Four than the twin as well.

Overall its siting an inch taller than stock ...all part of the plan.

Not sure is to go stock air filter or pod filters , jetting would easier with  stock but would the pod/K&n is keeping with the rest of the bike

Need a tank now ...anyone got an old dented one ? :-\

Just got to purchase new cables, front mudguard  etc , make a seat  and dig deep for a exhaust system (glup   :o)
Oh fix up new cockpit fairing , lights ......will keep me busy. ;D
 



Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Johnwebley on April 11, 2019, 10:47:59 PM
its really looking good,

both of them,

 if you do go the pod filters,you will need to make velocity stacks at least 7cm then fit the pods,or it will be very tricky getting
clean carburation .

 pods cause lots of issues
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: mattsz on April 12, 2019, 10:41:23 AM
Not sure if it's just me, but I can't see any photos starting with your Nov 12 post (http://www.sohc.co.uk/index.php/topic,17323.msg150883.html#msg150883 (http://www.sohc.co.uk/index.php/topic,17323.msg150883.html#msg150883))...

Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: mike the bike on April 12, 2019, 11:16:18 AM
It's not just you.  Photobucket is sulking again.
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on April 13, 2019, 08:56:12 PM
Not missed much ..there must be an easier way of loading photos on this site than Slow and plain photobucket route
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: royhall on April 14, 2019, 12:05:33 PM
Not missed much ..there must be an easier way of loading photos on this site than Slow and plain photobucket route
Best option for photo's is to directly upload them to the site using the (attachments and other options) button below your post. You can upload a maximum of 5 photo's per post but try to ensure the size of each photo is no larger than 1mb then your golden (that's the limit I work to). The actual limits are 5 photo's, no one photo larger than 2mb, all photo's a maximum of 6mb per post. There's been loads of posts ruined using sites like Photobucket who tend to go out of business without warning. Hope that helps.
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: SteveD CB500K0 on April 14, 2019, 12:19:03 PM
The limit is to save disk space on the server.

A 1Mb image is just as good as a 10Mb image for a forum.

Steve


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: SteveD CB500K0 on April 14, 2019, 12:20:04 PM
Plus select “Inline image” from the drop down menu.

Sorry - can’t make it the default


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on April 14, 2019, 07:46:16 PM
Thanks for that , will have re size my photos .......have bad enough time just remembering to take pictures

Anyway , found a tank .....with dents !

Purchased a box section swing arm from Mr Cole from this fine forum ...shame as I will now have to respray it.

Just working on the fairing , have 2nd hand R90s style one but just too big for the 400.....anything else is more money. 

Just testing the picture bit but  my front end  CB400N double discs .....which are rarer then cb400F. (colour might not be to every one taste)

 [attachimg=1]




 
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: royhall on April 14, 2019, 08:45:07 PM
The picture worked out great.

Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: ka-ja on April 14, 2019, 08:47:50 PM
Brakes look good, almost the double of my set up except for the wheels, I used comstars converted to spokes, nice to see another individual approach to a 400/4
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Woodside on April 14, 2019, 08:48:12 PM
Any good
Came off a 400/4
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on April 14, 2019, 10:25:39 PM
Looks the same size I already have ,been looking  for one that wasn't as  so deep so don't have to mount too far forward.

There number around on Ebay ,Chinese specials but there too pointy and low. Found one that might work  ..... I'm a fussy bugger  ::)

Trouble is need to get tank on and ensure  its doesnt foul that or even look too big in scheme of things 
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Woodside on April 15, 2019, 06:57:29 AM
Have you WhatsApp or an email
I can send an old pic over of it fitted
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on April 15, 2019, 08:47:29 PM
Have you WhatsApp or an email
I can send an old pic over of it fitted

PM sent
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on April 22, 2019, 07:52:28 PM
This is  the fairing I've got to work with ....will be adding a 7 inch headlight  as well . The whole bike will be taller and this may "too"  large a fairing might just work, only one way to fine out .Will be using the existing headlight brackets [attachimg=1]

Next "problem" was this fine looking box section s/arm arrived from a forumite [attachimg=2]

Question was spray it up in matching colours (red) or fit as is ..........fit as it !  its too good to paint and if it doesn't work not hard to spray it up

Having a right PITA time with the front brakes , bleeding them.  To start with the face on master cylinder was pitted ,so that was smoothed out,as it leaked. The long double banjo bolt is not long enough , so feel uneasy tightening it up hard. Tried everything but there still feels like air in there. I've got a hard lever but it should do it sooner than it does if you know what I mean. [attachimg=3]

Of course manage to fit the lines in the wrong order so cross further down ....but there staying like that  for while.   

Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on April 22, 2019, 08:25:36 PM
Next up Tank .....this dented thing arrived and was suppose to hold petrol , inside looked Ok and top although dented wasn't bad

[attachimg=1]

However the horrors where  underneath

[attachimg=2] 

Umm bad rust but nothing I couldn't deal with. I could sand blast it but that can be bit too vicious
Then I had thought .........it soon passed  ;)


We see a lot of posts "How do I de-rust my petrol tank"  and whole lot of answers , but it very hard to photo the inside of your tank So I'll show you what I do by doing the outside.

 I attack it with sprint of salts , 500ml  for £3.50 @ homebase . The odd thing is this stuff doesn't work on grease or paint very well,  so need de-grease then strip off any of the paint.
Then next problem is the local homebase is shut , ie mean closed down ... so brick acid can be used (Note I live Nr Dover, the only town which doesn't a Mcdonalds in high street ,shut 1 yr ago)

Anyway back to tanks .....I was using some old stuff I had, hence the rather green brown mess (normally clear) then there's  the problem in getting the stuff to stay in contact with metal not an issue inside a tank.  I was using couple bits of rag and making sure there soaked now and again . Its job you leave and do something else while it pickling away [attachimg=3]

The  final result took longer than normal , could quicken it up by using fresh acid and scrubbing it with small wire brush. However remember this stuff is 36% hydrochloric acid , hence why the green colour, the brown colour is old rust and the fumes are nasty (outdoor jobbie)[attachimg=4]

The stuff is washed off with a caustic soda solution then lots of water, dried and given a coat of etch primer ......however spot the holes at the rear of the tank ......B*****R  !

[attachimg=5]

Good news is managed to mig weld the holes , phew !!  covered the area with chemical metal just case and no leaks . I will be sealing the tank as well.

Now to work on the top side of the tank .....   

 



     


Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Bryanj on April 22, 2019, 09:30:15 PM
Dont want to pee on your parade but look carefully at the pivot of the swingarm. It looks like the alloy bushes are pivoting on the long bolt and not the original collar, if so this is not a good idea for several reasons.
1 the bolt is designed to be tightened till it pinches the collar in the frame
2 bolt is not as strong as povot
3 grease dont get in to lube things properly.

If it is that way should not be difficult to machine bushes to take pivot, just make sure it is pivot that is clamped not bushes I.E. pivot fractionaly longer than seing arm is wide.
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: K2-K6 on April 22, 2019, 09:58:50 PM
I can't remember accurately Bryan,  but thought I recall that Dresda used taper roller bearing arrangements to support their swingarm. 

Those look like they could be with the aluminium outer providing a sleeving into the bearing bore to size them onto std Honda pivot bolt.

In which case to be ideal they should have a clamped distance tube between the two races.
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Trigger on April 22, 2019, 10:19:09 PM
Dresda used taper roller bearing  ;)
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on April 23, 2019, 10:16:08 AM
There's a set of taper roller bearings in there , same as I had in 1980's ........all pee removed   ;D

Anyone got an old seat base  ?  making my own seat as can't get what I want.
 



Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on May 17, 2019, 06:14:57 PM
Ok folks back again  and things are going slowly  due to a number of factors (don't want to bore you will that)

So this a tale of two tanks

The red one got washed with acid inside this time and yet more 2 pin holes appear ....chemical metal call into play and time to seal the tank up. I normally use POR 15  but everywhere seem to be out of stock on the small tins. So decided to go for tapox  [attachimg=1]

Well its crap , firstly the temperature needs to really high to ensure the solvent evaporates and instructions say to pump air into the tank for 5 hours !  to ensure the solvent doesn't condense inside the tank and wash away the sealant. Also you use only use a 1/3  of the tin. Well even in green house it took for ever to dry, 2 days. I pumped air into via the hole for the petrol tap and ok that side but the other side had condensation even after 1 hour and washed the sealant away (bit like red oxide) Added more stuff to cover the washed away bit but still same effect . Even the left over stuff in the tin took a week to go off (yes it was all mixed properly)....Rant rant 

So about given up on the red tank ......move to blue tank (thanks Peter)
[attachimg=2]

Once the paint was removed even more rusty stuff under it  but it didn't leak and even once the inside was cleaned out , no leaks , phew
[attachimg=3]

Problem was loads of rust pin prick holes  once the rust was removed  and what I'd call micro  dents

[attachimg=4]

Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on May 17, 2019, 06:34:15 PM
So decide to prep both tanks ......

[attachimg=1]

However the red tank got put to one side, for another day, as still has imperfections in it.   

In the warm and whilst doing white I started on the cockpit faring , problem being the red paint was reacting with white primer

[attachimg=2]

So had rub that all the way back ....time consuming task.

BUT least i've got the correct date on my camera now ;-) ... for this picture away

Some  other bits done

Sorted out the mounting for fairing and a new 7  inch headlight
[attachimg=3]

Finally got my mate to turn down the wheel spacer to 19 mm  for the rear wheel spindle and fit wheel, chain and stuff to the rear end.

[attachimg=4]

Might get around putting oil in engine and turning it over ....but that means sorting out the wiring out and clocks  opps

[attachimg=5]

Next fun headache is the seat. I was after a giuliari style sloped seat like on the 750,but none for 400/4 and the chinese specials are too short. So back to the drawing board and a 2/4 seat as originally fitted to Mr Snix has been purchased and will be modified 

Sowing machine out !!

 



 









 
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on May 23, 2019, 09:38:07 PM
Ok the clocks are done .....umm not really can you spot the error.

[attachimg=1]

They had already been pulled apart so the crimped ring is not a nice as finish as I would like .

Next the wallet took a pounding and new Delkevic system was purchase. They don't list the full system anymore as the bracket for the silencer only fits the F1 models , I wasn't worried as was going to make a stainless one up anyway. So after some discussion managed to purchase a complete one. Its fits easily enough and there are no silly collets to mess about with. Its close fit but it nicely tucked away, very pleased with it.

[attachimg=2]

[attachimg=3]


Finally the bike is off the wooden bench and can be wheeled around .....ready for a engine start !  ???

Oh hell this is the real scary stuff now  ie  adding battery !  plugs out turn it over to check  oil pressure , do I have spark  ?  adding petrol to the carbs (of course they will flood) ...pressing the button .

[attachimg=4]

And yes it does lean over a bit as it been jacked up a bit by a inch (my fat a**e will sort that out )
     

 
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on May 29, 2019, 05:56:01 PM
Well the dreaded "will it go" time had arrived , time to wheel it outside for the first time.

Firstly for some reason the neutral light switch decided not to work. The carbs didn't flood and it turned over (while the clutch was pulled in) ..time to put the plugs back in and hope

[attachimg=1]
   

It lives ...phew  !! ;D ;D ;D  couldn't post video up as it was too large

 The carbs are way out but that can be sorted out later, lots of sucking !! no oil leaks , exhaust is a tad loud. Neutral light switch  has since decided to work and its running a bit rich. I have gears too which is a bonus  :)
 
So all good, still lots to sort out

Still can't find a front mudguard in the style I want , think Rd125lc  but wider  :-\   


 
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: kent400 on May 29, 2019, 08:23:03 PM
Gauge mounting bracket upside down or in plain English arse about face.
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: dave400 on May 29, 2019, 08:58:08 PM
Well the dreaded "will it go" time had arrived , time to wheel it outside for the first time.

Firstly for some reason the neutral light switch decided not to work. The carbs didn't flood and it turned over (while the clutch was pulled in) ..time to put the plugs back in and hope

(Attachment Link)
   

It lives ...phew  !! ;D ;D ;D  couldn't post video up as it was too large

 The carbs are way out but that can be sorted out later, lots of sucking !! no oil leaks , exhaust is a tad loud. Neutral light switch  has since decided to work and its running a bit rich. I have gears too which is a bonus  :)
 
So all good, still lots to sort out

Still can't find a front mudguard in the style I want , think Rd125lc  but wider  :-\



Your bike looks great I think alloy wheels on a 400/4 are so much better looking than wheels with spokes. I use a single a stay North American F2 chrome front mudguard with my alloy wheel looks so much better than the Euro guard in my opinion you have a harder choice to fit in with custom style...good work.....Cheers Dave
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on June 04, 2019, 03:16:10 PM
With the engine running , time to press on with other things . Footpeg and linkages still some tweaking required but not too cluttered

[attachimg=1]

[attachimg=2]

Time  to look my rear end  ::) :o  and seating ,  would have liked the Cb750  style seat but  gave up  and gone back to the 1980  design of a 2/4  seat, cb900 tail fairing  and set of tractor trailer lights

Well in my draws there was a one of these, a spare from many years ago (PS my Dad was agricultural engineer ,hence the tractor bit and frame in massey ferguson red at one point ) 
[attachimg=3]

Alas only one , so I will moving to LED on the rear .....modernising it 

However  can't remember if I secured the taillight to seat or the bashed up rear mudguard ...having to start from scratch here then.

So take one Cb900 tail  and cut it up  and mount  to 2:4  seat
 [attachimg=4]

[attachimg=5]

Its don't fit right .....Arh knew this was the case ,so off with the cover and time to adjust the seat. So I've wrecked a Cb900  tail unit  and now a 2:4  seat, needs must 



 




 
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on June 04, 2019, 03:37:29 PM
So with the seat cover off , it revealed its was made in 1981  :)

[attachimg=1]

After a bit of cutting and adding new foam etc  we get to this stage, with  the sockingette holding the foam in place for the time being
[attachimg=2]

Next to the rear mudguard. Many years ago i remember  bashing one out of bit of galvanised tin , brazing up brackets to it a covering the thing with filler and black paint, just to make it look better ..In truth it was mess had extra holes in it were I cocked to the measurements etc .

So  Despite measuring and checking there comes a time when you have start bending metal , this was a bit of Stainless steel plate which was on thick size , photo is the not the finished article but you get the idea.
[attachimg=3] 


Then you fit all together and find this ...
 [attachimg=4]

Someone previously had re-welding the seat hinge bolts in the wrong place.

So awaiting some LED lights , seat vinyl/fabric  and thinking of way of attaching all it together. 

Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: taysidedragon on June 04, 2019, 04:05:50 PM
Modify the hinge bracket or make a new one to move the seat back and line up with the seatlock.
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on June 04, 2019, 05:15:27 PM
Already sorted the seat out , ground off bolts and added new ones in the right place. :) ;)
 
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: MarkCR750 on June 05, 2019, 07:02:45 PM
What a terrific bike this is becoming 👍
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on June 19, 2019, 02:00:01 PM
The seat and tail unit proved to right faff , its appears that my 2/4  seat doesn't sit square on the bike (yes messed around with the hing holes etc )   and on checking  my other 400/4  same issue but not as bad.[attachimg=1]

All pissed to one side arrrrggh

Any back to sowing again .....the 2:4 seat laid bare [attachimg=2]

Managed to sow the thing up OK so the  fits first time but brought enough material to have a second attempt.
[attachimg=5]

And finally my rear end   :o :o :o
[attachimg=3]

The decals are painted on and the sodding things "leached"??   when I added the lacquer on. There will be logo on the top  of the tail unit when i get around to that

[attachimg=4]

Last piccy shows how well the exhaust is tucked in . Its not pissed just the camera angle .....its all rubber mounted and moves all over the place though (DOH) 





 

 
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on June 19, 2019, 02:19:51 PM
So enough of my rear !!  whats happening up front

Well having painted the cockpit fairing (old fibreglass and paint is right PITA ) decided to have a brand new mudguard and arriving soon . I finally settled on something that looks oK but not ideal.
 
The view inside

[attachimg=1]

Yes the bars are bit red , the faring is set up so a set of ace bars can be fitted. 
 
The outside view

[attachimg=2]

No decals on the fairing as I couldn't decide how it should look so its just plain at present. On full lock loads of clearance between the fairing and tank

All the electrics work , some tiding up required though.

[attachimg=3]
   

So just tank to finish , mudguard to fit (need make up fork brace) .......then need check every nut & bolt again.     

I suspect I will used spare tank to give it run up the road this week (oh err that will interesting )  8) ::)
 




 
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: paul G on June 19, 2019, 03:14:03 PM
Coming on Northy  :)
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Laverda Dave on June 19, 2019, 08:57:03 PM
Looking classy, not far to go now and just in time for some sunshine 8).
Rupert Paul did a feature in Classic Bike a few months ago detailing how to make a front mudguard mount, the type using round bar as used by all the specials builders. He made his for the Royal Enfield he's currently building, the finished part looked fantastic.
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: pistonbroke 66 on June 20, 2019, 03:28:40 PM
This project is a credit to you mate

The seat alteration was genius!  ;)
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on June 20, 2019, 04:49:51 PM

The seat alteration was genius!  ;)

Thanks   but I  did about 35  years ago ......trouble was I couldn't remember how had bolted all the bits together. I've over engineered the rubber mounts to much and need to simplify them (at later date or just leave it  ::).

 
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on June 24, 2019, 03:37:54 PM
Ok mudguard arrived  from  D&M engineering and I made a quick a fork brace from stainless plate , as lot cheaper than the £112  for cb400n fork brace on the net . It shouldn't really need it as i've double disc but it will give bit more rigidity to the front end . Also provides more secure location for the brake line clips  ;D

[attachimg=1]

[attachimg=2]
 
So thats my front end done , but no strips/decals yet as still not decided on what they should look like but should be pretty easy to do.


So I slapped a spare tank on it for road test and its safe to say this is a horrible colour combination
[attachimg=3]

The fairing still looks too big for the bike and may be changed at later date , the bike sits very high . I took it for a spin around the block to "test" it ,to find that :-

1) Clutch adjustment way out  (now sorted - has new plates/springs so will need to bed in)
2) Running too rich. Gets to 3.5 k and splutters (later removed some very sooty plugs, so standard jets going back in from 98)
3) Number 1  carb leaking the all new o ring had split , may have caught it when fitting, last spare fitted.
4) Oil leak from rocker box around no 1 area. In other tests the bike was on it centre stand, the leak occurred when run on it side stand . So looks like need to remove the rocker box off to see whats happen in there , at least there's oil up there.
5) Brakes need to bed in 
6) Steering and ride feel fine.

So tank to  still to do , need fuel tap but suspect the yellow tank may be donating one. 

[attachimg=4]

Side panels  to  add but need some  Cb400 four  logos or something .....going back to 80  I used letraset letters and number , might get some vinyl ones this time  :) 

[attachimg=5]

So nearly there but not , really disappointed in the rocker box leak it was "glued" into position with a casing compound.





   


 



 
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on June 24, 2019, 03:43:48 PM
OH the  funny gaps in the tank paint work , luckily I had something to cover them up with  ::) ;)

[attachimg=1]

Needs lacquering  and going off etc ......thats another  week of spray ,spray,waiting, rub down, spray , more spray , more rubbing and waiting.


 



Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: mattsz on June 24, 2019, 03:45:25 PM
OH the  funny gaps in the tank paint work , luckily I had something to cover them up with  ::) ;)

We knew you had something in mind there!  ;)
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: taysidedragon on June 24, 2019, 07:27:25 PM
I like the colour scheme. Looking good.
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on July 02, 2019, 05:19:30 PM
Well  from  pile of bits , frame , spare engine and wallet shrinkage bits .......Mr Snix  (mark II) . Still things to sort out.

[attachimg=1]

[attachimg=2]


Running smoother on standard jets, with proper coloured plug which is odd as I'm running pod filter (albeit oiled) Pulls cleanly up to 5k .....running it in , honest !  ::)
Does "smell " warm, combination of tight engine, engine paint going off and warm weather
Brake still feel very wooden.
Front end is too soft
No oil leaks ....had caught the rocker box gasket


There are number things which have arisen since adding all the bits together and riding it.

The 2:4 seat is slightly narrower at the front so some bits on the tank I thought would be covered up ...aren't.
The cockpit fairing is mounted to the headlight bracket which is rubber mount so it wobbles. 
The Speedo is a pattern Cb400n part and is too long (brake line also tad too long as well) further highlighted by soft front end
The massive number plate has to go (looks like a air brake )

Ohh don't just run the engine breather tube into a plastic bottle inside the unused air box , you get steam rising from under the seat.

So is it finished ...nah never , the original one took a number of years to perfect .Then it got used,abused and end up used a commuter.

This is an attempt to go back in time , ie what we did the 70/80's with bikes, we all modified them. I could have put all the modern stuff on it but I might as well got a 1998 honda CB400R (supersport) and tarted it up but where's the fun in that  :-) (ohh that  might be a interesting project  :o :o ;) )_ 

Needs some logos, decals, a clean to remove grubby mit marks & dust, tank needs rubbing down and need to put some more wadding in the exhaust . Its too loud for me so at 6k its going to howl a lot.   

 

 

 
 

     
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: SteveD CB500K0 on July 02, 2019, 07:17:38 PM
You are right about ”this is what we all did to our bikes”. We couldn’t wait to rip them apart (see avatar)

That does look good though.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on July 07, 2019, 05:23:15 PM
Thanks for the comments and I think this will be work in progress .

Still very aware it runs very hot .... so just given it some short runs in the cooler parts of the day. I was so paranoid had to check it oil was getting to the top end by removing a tappet cover ....its was and duly ran oil all over the engine. If there was an issue it would have gone bang or screeched to a halt by now. Thinking of putting 20/50w oil in there,currently using 10/40 but it semi syn and well runny when warm.

Plugs are the right colour and the thing is slowly getting better ie not getting so hot so quick. Engine pulls really well. Everyone loves the pipe but still too noisy for me   

Got puncture in rear 1/2 mile from home today ..nice new nail   ::)   rather put a hold on the running in as only had front tubes in my stash.
Also one side panel cracked at the top , was secondhand to start with.   

Modified the rear wheel spindle , fitted a longer one due to dresda box section swing arm being fatter , still tad to long 

[attachimg=1]

Then made simple stop for the rear brake lever, its just a bit ally with offset holes so can used as a cam.

[attachimg=2]

Next up the rear under tray will chopped back , doesn't need to be that big as its not carrying any weight and paint outside black.

Brakes slowing getting there.

Its making me smile  :D  especially when a guy you don't recognise, says "Hi, Northy I remember being chased by that bike back in 80's" not seen him since the early 80's but its that bike they remember.

Or maybe my 40 yrs old oxblood red leather jacket, which has been adjusted to fit again (may put few pounds on over the years)


 
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: pistonbroke 66 on July 11, 2019, 11:13:35 AM
Take a bow that man, some cracking work there!
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: paul G on July 11, 2019, 12:01:45 PM
Great stuff keep up the good work.
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on August 31, 2019, 01:54:50 PM
OK folks bit of an unpate .

Bike is now run in with a some 600 miles on the clock ...might not be long enough for some but I'm not  red lining it yet

Still smells hot but the cooler weather has helped and the paint on engine is slowly cured (did put a lot on there ) trouble is dried with bit of dust stuck onto it

2 rear punctures ,  one 1/2 mile  from home (nail) the other 20 mile from home (new screw) and was 3 hr wait in the heat

Replaced the rear shocks with some softer ones much better but the front damping is poor and soft.

Front brake still not fully bedding in, even took them off to check ..too hard a material may be but better than standard set up. G getting better but does show up the soft front end. 

Piccy of revised rear mudguard in plastic replacing the S/S  item  (lost a good kilo there) and slimmer softer shocks
[attachimg=1]

Have a dimple in my seat .....odd talking point but its where the foam was injected in at the factory

[attachimg=2]

Added some bling to engine (thanks Peter) finned covers

[attachimg=3]

The engine is going fine, really takes off and revs freely and 60-80 acceleration is impressive. Think I've got the jetting about right with a smooth clean pick up .That exhaust does have great rasp at 6 k ...still tad to loud.

The gear box or should I say the rear sets are making for a slow down shift. I've adjusted them and can't quite get it balanced, adjust one way and upshift are the issue. Think the arm on the rear sets is too short and I'm not get proper leverage (or weak spring in the selector mechanism)

However the biggest issue I have is a tiny oil leak from the drive sprocket oil seal. Not from the shaft but between the case and the seal and its bloody annoying. Its only a few drips every 50 mile but still should be happening . This seal was new (all new seal/etc in engine) so why should leaking between the casing, its not distorted. Can't over pressurised in there.

The seal has a locating stub which means removing to replace is a pig split the cases or refit one with the location stub ...anyone done this . For time being I going to try some sealant around it.

So I've the forks to play with , tidy up some of the wiring and oil leak to sort out
       
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: K2-K6 on August 31, 2019, 02:39:32 PM
Sounds like you're getting it debugged and how you'd like it.

Your oil seal leak,  as you state it shouldn't really have any pressure in there so maybe worth checking any breathers are OK first to avoid unneeded work.

It's unusual to get a good / competent seal from using sealant on the outside of a leak so may involve more extensive intervention if you can't get a simple cure.

Presume you used new oil in the forks when building?  Otherwise it's definitely worth a change to get better damping control. I use the moto-x derived oils as they are generally good quality for suspension control, with really good anti-foam properties that give consistent damping.
Title: Re: CB400 Four special (Mr Sinx II )
Post by: Northy on September 02, 2019, 04:32:16 PM
Oil leak now sorted

Ok I cheated by putting some TBS (Thermal Bonding System) around the seal. Its a thermal epoxy glue which works up to 120c so that should hold for a few years ...fingers crossed.
 

   
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