CL175 Kickstart Shaft Stripped

S

SullivanCB200

Been Around the Block
Quick question, just need some wise opinions.. I have a 1971 CL175 that runs great, but the kick start shaft is stripped. A friend thought to just weld one on there and problem solved. But, I have only owned the bike for about 300 miles and started wondering if there is a reason the kick start shaft has stripped?? Is this a common issue? Is there a chance that if I just weld one on there and give it a kick I'll damage the internals because there was some other issue?

Thanks
 
Which end of the shaft is stripped? If it is the outer end where the kick lever is attached, it could just be that the locking pin was loose, and the previous owner kept kicking it until the splines ground off (aka a moron). If it's the inner end, it could be that the motor was seized at one time and someone attempted to fix it with the kick starter. These are just speculations, but I would say that the inner splines being stripped would be the less common of the two occurrences.

To fix the outer end being stripped, tighten the locking screw on the kick lever as much as you can and then drill a hole through the side of the c-clamp on the lever, and into the shaft. Only drill a short distance into the shaft, enough for a metal pin to grab, when load is applied. Get a metal pin of the same diameter as the hole you drilled, and slip it into the hole. Cut the length of the pin in such a way to leave a slight gap between the outer surface of the c-clamp on the kick lever, and the end of the pin when the pin is pressed all the way into the hole. This allows you to place your weld inside that gap and sand it down so it doesn't look like you made any modifications.

The repair on the inner splines is a whole different ball game. I would consider replacing the shaft in that case.

Good luck!
 
Assuming the thread on the 'outie' died, welding a short piece from another axle on it is a good idea, but be sure its straight on the broken piece. the side cover functions as a bearing and when the axle is welded dodgy, you could find yourself not being able to get the lever back up (thus rattling away when engine runs...) Getting the kicker down will always work ;)

the option CR650 mentioned is the best one. One thing i would like to add is that the hole you drill is the EXACT same size as the pin. When the hole is bigger you end up with a completely lubbed-out axle as there will be play. smashing the pin in will give you some assurance its a tight fit. ;) dont drill the hole more then say 4 or 5 mm in. It will weaken the axle and deeper holes will make it break.
 
Awesome! Thanks guys. I will be home tomorrow to dive into this. It is just the outside part of the shaft that is stripped (where the peddle attaches). My biggest concern was the probable cause of the stripping (more than likely the moron route), and whether or not kicking it after fixing it would cause damage. I feel pretty confident now that as long as I follow both of your guidelines I should be good to go.

Thanks again!
Andy
 
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