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Re: TEC shocks for '77 CB400F

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mattsz:

--- Quote from: Bryanj on May 25, 2020, 03:02:02 PM ---If CL 450 are right length i might try those, a lot of CB 450 parts were used on 500 four and thats not much different, then again thats two suppositions in a row and they always say if you assume you make an ass out of you and me!

--- End quote ---

Well, I already know I'm a bit of an ass, but I'd better not drag you down into that category with me!

mattsz:
I contacted TEC Bike Parts through their ebay listing for the CL450 shocks ($69 with free shipping), and asked them for more info about the shocks, including some measurements.  I got a reply back quite quickly - no information, just a question: "Are you trying to fit them to something other than a Honda?"

I decided to come clean and explain why I was interested in these particular shocks, even though I don't have a CL450 - a second quick reply came back: "OK, really simple--they are the same ..."

So I ordered them on the spot.  Not sure why the listings of the same shock for different bikes come and go in their ebay "store," but there you go.  Never hurts to enquire, I guess...

mattsz:
Continuing on...

I just began the process of putting the new Tec shocks on the bike... in all my reading and research here, I've seen many recommendations for them, but never any mention of the mounting points being different widths than the original.  IF in fact my current ones are original, of course!

On my old shocks, the top eye is 22mm across (not including the rubber bushing which protrudes on both sides), and the gap between the lower "mounting fork" sides is about 19.2mm. On the new Tec shocks, the top eye is only 18.2mm across (again, rubber bushing not included), and the lower gap is 21mm.

Does this sound familiar to anyone?  I'm surprised at the difference with shocks that are supposedly direct replacement.  I guess I'll just pack the gaps with some washers?

Or, I wonder if I can switch out the tops of the shocks?  Hmm, probably not...

MrDavo:
I fitted a pair to my CL450, replacing the originals which had lost their mojo. A huge improvement, but yes, there were subtle differences.



TEC shocks on the right, they came supplied with the washers, which bridged  the gap at the top as the eyes were narrower. The bottom bracket was a little wider, but as there was a locknut welded to the inside bracket, they deformed slightly when I tightened the lower bolt, just enough to be a snug fit without causing any problems.

mattsz:
Thanks MrDavo, that's very helpful!  I think I'll contact TEC and see what they say - maybe they'll have some to send me, or at least let me know what size they are...

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