SOHC.co.uk Forums > CB350/400

Small problem with my 400

(1/3) > >>

shaunc:
Just got this 400 4 at Christmas and took it to a motorcycle dealers just to check it out.  They said it was running a bit rich and adjusted something.  Anyway since it's come back the engine seems to stutter as you rev it.  Once the revs are on it really runs well.  It just makes it a little difficult starting off as I have to have a few revs on slip the clutch a bit more.  Also going round roundabouts when you shut the revs off and want to put them back on again. Any thoughts what it could be?  Is it a normal Honda 400 thing?  Wondered whether it was something I could tinker with but I'm a bit of a novice.

Also, does anybody have any thoughts on repairing the bike seat?  Mine has a split along it.  It seems to be an original one with studs etc.  I know I can get it replaced but I'd rather keep this original slightly well-worn one if possible.

Shaun

florence:
I am sorry but I do not know what is wrong with your carbs but it sounds like the garage haven't got it quite right.  Have the carbs set up again and then balanced, I would suggest.

With regard to the saddle, I always used to mend mine with gaffer tape but eventually the glue would melt and it would end up sticking to my trousers.  Another option I have tried is sewing, use thick cotton and don't go too near to the edges or it will pull out.  When I was a rather foolish young man I thought it sensible to cover my saddle with sheepskin; shocking in the rain. 

Nowadays, I just live with the splits and tears, it all adds character.

shaunc:
Thanks Florence.  Think I will try and stick to my original seat as long as I can. You're right I think there's more character than in a new one. I had tried superglue and a strip of vinyl underneath to try and stop the padding showing through and it's lasted for 9 months.  I just wondered if there was any more permanent fix.

Regarding the engine it's not major, just a little annoying.  I may look into it some time when I feel up to it, but I haven't really got a clue what I'm doing.

Shaun

K2-K6:
If the garage didn't take the carbs apart then I'd guess that it could be adjustment of the idle screw which is fairly simple to do, have you asked them what they changed?

The idle screw changes the very low rev mixture and can be felt at closed throttle and also very small amounts of throttle before the main jets get fully running when the carbs are opened more, this may tally with what you are feeling. If you try pulling the choke out slightly and the response improves then this indicates the motor needs to run slightly richer (more fuel added).

Idle screws are usaully set with a screwdriver and gently turned in until they stop (don't use much force to avoid any damage) then unscrewed one and a half to two turns out as a start setting. Further adjustment is normally in half turn increments, out giving more fuel and in giving less.

Post more questions if you need any further help.

shaunc:
Hi K2-K6

That sounds like it.  I think they said it was running a bit rich and adjusted it.  This tallies with what my brother was saying about different jets in the carburettor.  He was wondering whether they'd got blocked and wanted me to take them apart and clean them.  But yes as soon as it gets over its little stutter the engine flies along.  One question though is how do I know if the mixture is right?  Do I have to take the spark plugs out and check them or just see if the engine is running right?  Sounds simple if I can get it right!!!

Thanks
Shaun

Navigation

[0] Message Index

[#] Next page