Axle clamp crack

[ShaggyPit]

Hey everyone,

been cleaning up parts and pieces lately and came across this small crack in the axle clamp. Is this a serious issue?
I would keep it if its not gonna explode on me but also im sure these can't be too expensive and have no problem shelling out some dough for a small piece like that, especially if it will make the front end safer.

If I should replace it, anybody have any laying around they are willing to part with? or can recommend a site that has these, i have done a quick search and will continue looking as well.

oh I guess I should mention my bike is an '81 CB 750k

any advice is greatly appreciated as always!

 

[irk miller]

Brand new, they're less than $15 on eBay. Replace it.

 

[trek97]

I say, "USE IT" LET EVOLUTION DO ITS JOB.

While the rest of us kick back safely nestled in our seats and watch the show...

WTF? Of course you REPLACE IT. I dont care what the cost.

 

[ShaggyPit]

Thanks deviant and trek.

I guess I should have known to just replace it immediately, feel a bit silly now hahah deep down I knew I had to replace it just thought I would ask, but from now on anything thats cracked, I will replace.
Thanks for the advice guys. sorry if it was a bit of a stupid question, but there is no such thing as a stupid question...except stupid questions :

 

[jpmobius]

Actually, that particular crack probably will never end up being anything but what you see, and not make for a news story - but you didn't hear that from me. Commonly that sort of failure is the result of expansion inside the bore, which is why I am responding. Did the stud (or bolt) that passes through it corrode sufficiently to crack the casting? Did it make the cap struggle to come off? If there is any doubt, replace the stud or bolt, and consider the other studs suspect! It can be quite difficult to see much worse structural issues with this sort of corrosion. Wire wheeling the stud and thinking it is ok won't do. Replace the stud. And of course, replace that cap regardless!

 

[TomTerrific]

Cracked axle clamps are a common problem with OIF Triumphs so don't feel alone. Check for tightening procedure. One side clamps first.

Tom

 

[ShaggyPit]

Actually, that particular crack probably will never end up being anything but what you see, and not make for a news story - but you didn't hear that from me. Commonly that sort of failure is the result of expansion inside the bore, which is why I am responding. Did the stud (or bolt) that passes through it corrode sufficiently to crack the casting? Did it make the cap struggle to come off? If there is any doubt, replace the stud or bolt, and consider the other studs suspect! It can be quite difficult to see much worse structural issues with this sort of corrosion. Wire wheeling the stud and thinking it is ok won't do. Replace the stud. And of course, replace that cap regardless!

Thanks jp. I dont recall the cap struggling to come off and the studs do not seem to have any real sort of corrosion, just slightly dirty and greasy but i will give it a good clean and then see what it looks like. thanks for the info!

Cracked axle clamps are a common problem with OIF Triumphs so don't feel alone. Check for tightening procedure. One side clamps first.

Tom

Thanks Tom! I am new to this rebuilding/older bike thing and everything that seems to be an issue definitely makes me second guess my decision, but knowing others have struggled through the same issues sure is comforting, not to mention the fun of taking things apart and rebuilding them is a joy in itself. Thanks for the note on the tightening procedure. I will consult my manuals for this. Appreciate the info!