AboutRich Johnston Expertise I have honda repair experience on all vintage Hondas from 1972 through 1980. I worked in a Honda dealership while going to college and have experience in all types of honda motorcyle repair. I don't have any experience on other brands.
Experience
Education/Credentials BS degree in mechanical engineering, Honda technical school graduate of 1975
Question Hey Rich, I have a 74 honda c.b. 450 and I got it through a trade, to be honest I have never worked on a motorcycle but have worked on air cooled engines all my life, right now I am confused becuase the bike was seized when I got it and I put a little trans oil in the cyllinders and the kick rolled over but to my surprise the pistons didn't so I drained the oil and someone poured kerosen in the crank case and the gas tank was rusted shut. My question to you is why is the starter turning the crank and the pistons not moving. same when I kick start it. and when I put it in gear and roll the tire I got nothing, am I looking at a dohc problem. If so is it chain or gear to gear? Any info would be great and schematics. Thanks man Joshua K.
Answer Joshua, the kick starter turns the transmission mainshaft attached to the clutch basket which turns the crank. If the kick starter is turning the clutch basket, it will turn the crank. But if the clutch is slipping, it won't turn the crankshaft. I'd check the clutch adjustment to make sure it's not partially disengaging the clutch. The dual overhead cams are chain driven.
