Pbeattie's 1978 CB400T

pbeattie

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Waasis New Brunswick Canada
Hello everyone.

I am proudly a new owner of my First Vintage Honda. It is a 1978 Honda CB400t. It currently is a bit of a Frankenstein. I am not 100% sure if it is a TI or TII where it seems to have parts from both. spoked wheels of the TI and electric start of the TII. Not to mention that it is also sporting a gas tank from what I believe is a CB360. My current plans for the bike is to get it running reliably, and then work at correcting all of the mismatch problems. I also bought the bike without a registration, but that wasn't much of an issue where you can get older bikes registered quite easily through Vermont's DMV.

So far I have cleaned the Carbs and got the bike running on its own power. However, it needs a few things in order to make it right. As of right now it seems to run well at higher rpm but it seems a little hesitant at low RMP. I think balancing the carbs would help this, but before I do that I plan on adjusting the valves to make sure everything is good there.

The electrical system also needs work. It is not charging so I believe the regulator rectifier is bad. There is AC power coming from the alternator so that should be fine. (I here that upgrading to a mosfet unit is a good idea for a more stable charging voltage). It also goes without saying that I need a new battery. If anyone has any recommendations on battery I would love to hear it. I was thinking AGM for reliability and simplicity.

I'll post more Pics when I can, I am storing the bike at my dads garage until the repairs are done so I only get out to work on it on the weekends.

Cheers,
Pbeattie
 

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Our resident expert on these bikes will be along, but I absolutely recommend and agree with an AGM battery, well worth the investment. LDR will have many recommendations for the bike as he has a couple of the SOHC 400 series and knows them inside and out, including the mosfet rec/reg combo unit to buy. Also, if you haven't seen it yet, this section (and part of your Welcome Package) will help you find out the models the mixed features of yours came from.
 
Thank you for the info. It looks like the frame and engine are from a 1978 cb400tii. I guess one of the previous owners prefered the spoked wheels. The bike came with a bunch of spare parts including front forks with a disc brake and a set of comstar wheels. I'm likely going to switch over to the disc brake setup. But I do like the look of the spoked wheels
 
Only you can decide whether you're going to go back to original or allow mods that you like more. As time goes by, you'll know what to do.

And congratulations - you're now a member of the (non-existent) Old Honda club.
 
The upgrade to the MOSFET regulator is worth it. I use Jack for them https://www.roadstercycle.com/
I've been using the MotoBatt AGM battery for years, in fact all 3 runners I have are using them. You would use the MB12U for the T2. Combined with the MOSFET will give you solid charging and battery power. The only other thing would be changing the fuse block over to the blade type instead of the glass fuses, but of your fuse block is good with proper sized fuses that can wait a long time. Automotive fuses are too long and will cause problems.
You might add some Sea Foam or Berrymans B12 to the fuel for a couple of tanks, it helps clean up old fuel deposits and sometimes fixes minor carb issues.
If you haven't seen this it's in the Misc section https://www.vintagehondatwins.com/f...9-Basic-Checklist-for-the-New-to-you-Old-Bike and will help get you roadworthy
 
LongDistanceRider said:
The upgrade to the MOSFET regulator is worth it. I use Jack for them https://www.roadstercycle.com/
I've been using the MotoBatt AGM battery for years, in fact all 3 runners I have are using them. You would use the MB12U for the T2. Combined with the MOSFET will give you solid charging and battery power. The only other thing would be changing the fuse block over to the blade type instead of the glass fuses, but of your fuse block is good with proper sized fuses that can wait a long time. Automotive fuses are too long and will cause problems.
You might add some Sea Foam or Berrymans B12 to the fuel for a couple of tanks, it helps clean up old fuel deposits and sometimes fixes minor carb issues.
If you haven't seen this it's in the Misc section https://www.vintagehondatwins.com/f...9-Basic-Checklist-for-the-New-to-you-Old-Bike and will help get you roadworthy
Click to expand...

I've read your post on the new bike checklist. It has great info in it. I am glad that my thoughts on the charging system line up with yours. I already have a regulator rectifier on the way from http://sparckmoto.com. I will let you know how it goes when it arrives. I am just curious but do you have recommended source for the motobatt battery? I am also curious about what you recommend for an oil filter. I'm having a hard time finding one locally so I'm going to have to buy one online..
 
LongDistanceRider said:
The upgrade to the MOSFET regulator is worth it. I use Jack for them https://www.roadstercycle.com/
I've been using the MotoBatt AGM battery for years, in fact all 3 runners I have are using them. You would use the MB12U for the T2. Combined with the MOSFET will give you solid charging and battery power. The only other thing would be changing the fuse block over to the blade type instead of the glass fuses, but of your fuse block is good with proper sized fuses that can wait a long time. Automotive fuses are too long and will cause problems.
You might add some Sea Foam or Berrymans B12 to the fuel for a couple of tanks, it helps clean up old fuel deposits and sometimes fixes minor carb issues.
If you haven't seen this it's in the Misc section https://www.vintagehondatwins.com/f...9-Basic-Checklist-for-the-New-to-you-Old-Bike and will help get you roadworthy
Click to expand...

I am glad that my thoughts on the charging system line up with yours. I already have a regulator rectifier on the way from sparckmoto.com. I will let you know how it goes when it arrives. Do you have a recommendation on where to purchase the Motobatt battery from? Also, what would you recommend for an oil filter? I am having a hard time finding one locally so I am likely going to buy one online.
 
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Screenshot_20210925-164940_Chrome.jpgThanks for the advice on the filter and battery. I am planning on buying a few more goodies for the bike as seen in the pictue. Has anybody tried the cables or brake shoes from 4into1?
 
pbeattie said:
Thanks for the advice on the filter and battery. I am planning on buying a few more goodies for the bike as seen in the pictue. Has anybody tried the cables or brake shoes from 4into1?
Click to expand...

Cables from 4into1 are good, I've used many. Brake shoes from 4into1 are no better or worse than from anywhere else, it depends on brand but I will tell you I bought a set of Vesrah shoes for my 450 and they were far worse (not properly arced to fit the drum) than the EBCs I bought later although the EBCs had to be arced as well, neither set was good without arcing them to the drum.
 
Small update. I have now got my new battery and mosfet regulator rectifier installed. I had to move a few things around under the side cover in order to get the newer larger regulator to fit. I am planning on relocating the fuse box to under the seat later but for now it is just snugly tucked under the side cover. I also sorted out a misfire issue. It would only run on one cylinder until it got above 4k rpm. New plugs and caps didn't help. I ended up replacing the CDI with one off of a parts bike. And now it seems to be working a lot better. It still seem to have a bit of a hesitation as it comes off idle but I am hoping a balancing the carbs and a few good tanks of fuel being run through it will sort it out.
 
pbeattie said:
Small update. I have now got my new battery and mosfet regulator rectifier installed. I had to move a few things around under the side cover in order to get the newer larger regulator to fit. I am planning on relocating the fuse box to under the seat later but for now it is just snugly tucked under the side cover. I also sorted out a misfire issue. It would only run on one cylinder until it got above 4k rpm. New plugs and caps didn't help. I ended up replacing the CDI with one off of a parts bike. And now it seems to be working a lot better. It still seem to have a bit of a hesitation as it comes off idle but I am hoping a balancing the carbs and a few good tanks of fuel being run through it will sort it out.
Click to expand...

Good news, and hopefully you'll get the carbs sorted soon to get a few rides in before life freezes over up there.
 
So its been a while since I've been on here. I figure an update is over due. I did manage to get the bike running before the winter set in and I got it out for a few very cold drives. ?????? It still seems to have some carb issues on the idle circuit that need to be ironed out. Symptoms include hard start when cold and unstable idle. I hope i didn't damage something when I had to remove the broken off tip of the air fuel screw from the carb housing. I ended up buying a motobatt battery for it and it seems to work great even with the starting issues.
Plans for the spring include sorting out the carbs and possible buy some new tires for it. The tires that are on it currently are way to big for the bike. I believe the rear is a 130 right now. I would like to bring them back to stock sizes. Does anyone have any recommendations on a good set of tires?
 
Stock front is a 3.60S-19 or 90/80/19, which can't be found so 90/90/19
Stock rear is a 4.10S-18 or 100/80/18 but a 100/90/18 is fine.
The .10 over 3.5 and 4.0 means it was a 80 profile(lower) instead of the normal 90.
Avon, Dunlop, Michelin, Pirelli, etc. are all known good tires. Personally I won't use IRC, Chen Sing or any other cheap tire. Kenda and Shinko are also OK. Hard to recommend a specific because I don't know what's available to you.
 
When I put new tires on my CB400TI I went with Dunlop D404's. Front 110/90-19, Rear 110/90-18. I was able to buy them directly through the local Honda shop in Grand Junction. Jim helped me think through tire sizing. Not to add more to your plate, but when I had the wheels off, I also replaced the brakes shoes front and rear; and don't forget to check the condition of the sprockets and chain. I used EBC shoes; front shoes were readily available, but I had to wait for rear shoes. I see that you are shopping for shoes. A lot of what you are doing, I did last year. Lots of fun and had some great advice from folks on the Forum.
 
Glad to hear you are doing well with your Hawk 2. I used 4into1 for cables and filters and they worked good. there is a non- removeable jet under the removable idle that is a booger to clean, maybe LDR's Berryman's suggestion will prove fruitful. I really enjoy my 78 type 2 more than I thought I would. I ended up running 3.50x19 and 4.00 x18 only because I already had the rear on hand. My original Comstar wheels take tubes also.

tSiwK8bl.jpg
 
So the bike has been running fairly well. Just got done a Thorough clean of my fuel tank. I kept getting small flakes of rust in the carb, even though I have an inline filter. I'm hoping that I've solved that problem for good.

While cleaning my bike last night, I noticed that my base gasket is starting to leak. I was thinking of getting an atheana gasket kit for it this winter unless someone knows of a better brand.
 
pbeattie said:
So the bike has been running fairly well. Just got done a Thorough clean of my fuel tank. I kept getting small flakes of rust in the carb, even though I have an inline filter. I'm hoping that I've solved that problem for good.

While cleaning my bike last night, I noticed that my base gasket is starting to leak. I was thinking of getting an atheana gasket kit for it this winter unless someone knows of a better brand.
Click to expand...
I prefer Vesrah if you can find them, getting scarce
 
So I am just out of surgery and I am doing well. however, now that I am stuck in bed recovering I decided to make a more solid plan on what I want to get done to my bike over the winter. I have a few things on the list so far.

1: Convert to a 7inch headlight. Possibly from a CB750 (not 100% sure if it will work yet).

2: Replace top end gaskets. and inspect all others for leaks (order complete Vesrah gasket kit for the job)

3: Seal up any exhaust leaks and refinish the cross flow chamber. (Any advice on refinish the cross flow section would be appreciated)

4: Convert back to stock sized spoked wheels with front disc break. I am not 100% sure if there is a 19in front spoked wheel with disc, If not I have a set of comstars that will work.

5: Recover seat. Not sure what is the best quality ones out there. I need to do more research

6: If I have time polish the engine.

I think that just about sums things up for now.
 
pbeattie said:
So I am just out of surgery and I am doing well.
Click to expand...

Good to hear all went well and you're in recovery mode. I looked back through a few posts and didn't see a reference to an upcoming surgery, so I hope it was something minor.

We'll be here and the bike will wait. Get better, take it easy until then.
 
Also, glad that you are back on the mend and thinking about working on your project. I too have a CB400t but a '79. I recently updated my headlight but decided to go stock. I have had pretty good luck working with my local Honda shop on getting parts and doing some shop work as needed. From what I can see, the CB400T bikes are somewhat rare. I do like the looks of the spoke wheels. Good luck!
 
Glad you surgery went well and you're recovering.
The 7" headlight will fit but you'll be bending the ends of the fork ears some to get it in there. Might do some research for a 7" that has a replaceable bulb so you can run a 55/60W halogen bulb. Charging system will handle it fine.
Good choice on the gasket set.
For the power chamber the options are somewhat limited. Because of it having carbon build up internally it can't get zinc plated which would be ideal. Powder coat is a waste of money since it chip too easily. Maybe one of the spray on metal finishes like ceramic coating they shoot onto headers. Or maybe caliper paint would work well, regular paint won't hold up.
Swapping over to a disc brake spoke wheel can be done, need a new left fork slider for the caliper mounting. I understand that people have used the CB350G or CB350/400F front wheel. It's a 19" wheel you want.
For seat cover I'll suggest GumTwo on eBay https://www.ebay.com/itm/164194760439?hash=item263ac536f7:g:nHwAAOSwfGReuYi2 Saddleman used to make them but no longer.
 
LongDistanceRider said:
Glad you surgery went well and you're recovering.
The 7" headlight will fit but you'll be bending the ends of the fork ears some to get it in there. Might do some research for a 7" that has a replaceable bulb so you can run a 55/60W halogen bulb. Charging system will handle it fine.
Good choice on the gasket set.
For the power chamber the options are somewhat limited. Because of it having carbon build up internally it can't get zinc plated which would be ideal. Powder coat is a waste of money since it chip too easily. Maybe one of the spray on metal finishes like ceramic coating they shoot onto headers. Or maybe caliper paint would work well, regular paint won't hold up.
Swapping over to a disc brake spoke wheel can be done, need a new left fork slider for the caliper mounting. I understand that people have used the CB350G or CB350/400F front wheel. It's a 19" wheel you want.
For seat cover I'll suggest GumTwo on eBay https://www.ebay.com/itm/164194760439?hash=item263ac536f7:g:nHwAAOSwfGReuYi2 Saddleman used to make them but no longer.
Click to expand...

Thank you for the info. I already have a set of forks for the disc brake (came with the comstar wheels that I got as spares). Do you know if the rear wheel from the cb350f will work for my bike as well? its currently got a 16in rim on the back that also needs to get changed. Also, both of my headlight mounting tabs are cracked so if they need to be modified to make the standard size 7in headlight fit than that's okay. I just want more options for a brighter light that still looks period correct.
 
The CB400T models were originally a 19/18 wheel combo so it sounds like someone put a CM400E rear wheel on which is 16". Just get a CB400T1 rear wheel and it's a direct swap over including brakes and spacers.
 
I think you are right there. When I bought the bike it came with a cm450e as a parts bike, and guess what, it has no wheels on it.

LongDistanceRider said:
The CB400T models were originally a 19/18 wheel combo so it sounds like someone put a CM400E rear wheel on which is 16". Just get a CB400T1 rear wheel and it's a direct swap over including brakes and spacers.
Click to expand...
 
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