Lex Ky, cb 350

[Thompson]

Hello everyone,

So i put off doing my intro for a little bit but i figured its time to write it out. Im an architecture student at the University of Kentucky. I have been looking to get an old bike for the past few years but couldn't because of money situations (typical broke college student). However this summer i was able to save up a little cash and after lots of searching on craigslist i found a 72 cb 350 for 400. The previous owner never had it running and the carbs were in pieces. But i needed to take on a summer project so i picked it up from northern Ohio that night.

I don't have much mechanical experience at all and almost none with bikes. But i love taking things apart and understanding how they work. So over the past 6 weekends I've been working on my bike. 2 weeks ago she finally fired up, best feeling in the world ;D. Im having issues with the clutch but plan on working that out this weekend.

Here she is as of last sunday.

 

[axeugene27]

what is the problem with the clutch? Cool old 350 btw i'm obsessed with them

 

[Thompson]

Thanks man. As far as the clutch goes. I adjusted it and got it to engage, but now it won't shift into second gear. I was going to change the oil last night but the bolt under the engine is as round as a penny. Im going to try to get it off today. If anyone has any suggestions i would appreciate it.

 

[axeugene27]

heat it up grind 2 sides flat kick it on goes wrench kick it hard and fast couldn't get my oil bolt off till i had my engine out of the bike laid on its side and nearly had to jump on the wrench. get a breaker bar it will help.

 

[VonYinzer]

Do not stick a wrench on it an "kick" it. Thats a great way to strip all of the threads out, or worse. Get these:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Craftsman-Tools-10-Curved-Jaw-Locking-Pliers-10WR-Vice-Grip-Cutters-/400312001499?pt=Pliers&hash=item5d347463db

Heat the plug a bit, and tap it GENTLY with a hammer. Twist it off and throw it away.

As far as the bike not shifting into second, do you mean it WILL NOT SHIFT at all, or its tough to get it to?

Good luck with the bike man and keep us posted.

Oh, and in case you havent found one yet:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Honda-CNC-Aluminum-Oil-Drain-Plug-CB350-CB350K-68-73-CB450-CB500T-CB175-CB200-/160824334920?pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&hash=item2571e09a48&vxp=mtr

Remember, only use the right sized wrench/socket.

 

[iContango]

Welcome - Just joined myself and have the same color CB350 - although it is a '73 CB350G. Congrats on getting it running!

 

[loganrm]

Welcome to the forum. The bike looks to be in great shape for 400 bones. A lot of bikes are being snatched up in Ohio and dragged back over the Kentucky border for resurrection these days! I live in Lex as well. Good luck with the bike, lets get together for a ride when your rollin.

 

[axeugene27]

got mine out with no damage just saying. Tried heat, vice grip, impact driver, everything wouldn't budge. Anger makes you do stupid things sometimes. was a last resort and just happened to work out just fine.

 

[Thompson]

Thanks for all the replies guys. I tried the vice grips, didn't work out so i got a lug nut removal kit from auto zone. I had to put a pipe at the end of my wrench to gain leverage but it finally came off. And as far as the gears go, I put the shifter back on wrong after i fixed the clutch. I felt like an idiot but at least it wasn't a big deal. I will keep you guys updated on the progress! Thanks again.

 

[VonYinzer]

Only way to really learn is to fuck up as much as you can afford to, and than some.