The 1969 Honda CB350 K1 is a classic motorcycle that is still admired by enthusiasts and collectors today.

As one of Honda’s most popular bikes from the late 60s, the CB350 K1 was known for its reliability, lightweight build, and ease of use.

Over time, even the most reliable bikes need maintenance, and one common task is removing the starter motor for repair or replacement.

In this guide, we’ll cover “Honda 1969 Cb350 K1 How To Remove Starter” in detail. Whether you’re new to motorcycle maintenance or an experienced mechanic, we’ll break down each step in simple, easy-to-understand language.

This guide will also include tips, tricks, and insights that go beyond what you’ll find elsewhere, ensuring you’re prepared for this job.

What Is a Starter Motor?

The starter motor is an essential part of your motorcycle’s ignition system. It converts electrical energy from the battery into mechanical energy, turning the engine over so it can start.

On a bike like the 1969 Honda CB350 K1, the starter motor is crucial, especially for riders who don’t want to rely on kick-starting their bike.

Before we dive into the process of removing the starter, let’s talk about why you might need to remove it.

Why You Might Need to Remove the Starter

There are several reasons you may need to remove the starter on your Honda 1969 Cb350 K1:

• Starter failure: If the starter motor isn’t working, your bike won’t start using the electric ignition.
• Electrical issues: Sometimes, the problem might be an electrical fault, but removing the starter allows you to inspect it and rule out internal failures.
• Routine maintenance: If you’re doing an overall tune-up or restoration of the bike, removing and inspecting the starter is a good idea.

Tools You’ll Need to Remove the Starter

To complete the task of removing the starter on your Honda 1969 Cb350 K1, you’ll need a few basic tools:

• A set of metric sockets and wrenches
• A ratchet
• A screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
• Needle-nose pliers
• A magnetized tray to hold bolts and small parts
• Rubber gloves for protection
• Electrical tape (optional for securing wires)

Now that you have the necessary tools, let’s dive into the removal process.

Step-by-Step Guide: Honda 1969 Cb350 K1 How to Remove Starter

1. Disconnect the Battery

The first step is to disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical shock or short-circuiting. Follow these steps:

• Remove the seat from your CB350 K1.
• Locate the battery compartment under the seat.
• Disconnect the negative (black) terminal first, followed by the positive (red) terminal.
• Remove the battery and set it aside.

2. Locate the Starter Motor

On the 1969 Honda CB350 K1, the starter motor is located under the engine case, near the left side of the bike.

It’s connected to the engine with a couple of bolts and electrical wires that need to be removed before the motor can come out.

3. Remove the Left Engine Cover

Using your ratchet and a socket wrench, remove the bolts that hold the left side of the engine cover in place.

There should be about 6-8 bolts, depending on your specific model. Be sure to place them in your magnetized tray to avoid losing them.

Once all the bolts are out, carefully pull the cover off. You might need to wiggle it a bit to break the seal.

4. Disconnect the Starter Wires

Once the cover is off, you’ll be able to see the starter motor and its wiring. Use your screwdriver to remove the screws holding the electrical wires in place.

There should be two wires: one that leads from the starter to the solenoid, and another grounding wire.

Before removing the wires, take a picture or label them to ensure you can reconnect them correctly later.

5. Remove the Starter Mounting Bolts

Next, use your socket wrench to loosen and remove the starter mounting bolts. There should be two bolts holding the starter motor to the engine block.

Once they’re loose, carefully slide the starter motor out of its housing. Be gentle during this step, as you don’t want to damage any surrounding parts.

6. Inspect the Starter Motor

With the starter motor removed, now is a good time to inspect it for any obvious signs of wear or damage. Look for:

• Worn or broken gears
• Burnt wires or connectors
• Corroded terminals

If the motor is damaged, you may need to repair or replace it before reinstalling.

7. Clean the Starter Housing and Connections

Before reinstalling the starter, take a few moments to clean the housing where the motor sits. Use a clean cloth to wipe away any debris or oil build-up.

Also, check the electrical connections and clean them with a wire brush if necessary. Properly cleaned connections will ensure the starter functions properly when reinstalled.

8. Reinstall the Starter Motor

Once the starter and housing are clean, it’s time to reinstall the starter motor:

• Slide the starter back into its housing and hand-tighten the mounting bolts.
• Use your socket wrench to fully tighten the bolts, making sure they are secure but not overly tight.
• Reconnect the starter wires, ensuring they’re properly secured. Use electrical tape if needed to wrap exposed wires for added protection.

9. Reattach the Engine Cover

With the starter back in place, it’s time to reattach the left side of the engine cover. Line it up with the engine and carefully insert the bolts.

Tighten the bolts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure and prevent any warping of the cover.

10. Reconnect the Battery

Finally, reconnect the battery, starting with the positive (red) terminal and then the negative (black) terminal. Once everything is secure, you can reinstall the seat.

11. Test the Starter

Now that the starter motor has been reinstalled, it’s time to test it. Turn the ignition key and see if the bike starts using the electric starter.

If the motor turns over and the engine starts, congratulations! You’ve successfully removed and reinstalled the starter motor on your Honda 1969 CB350 K1.

Common Issues When Removing the Starter Motor

While removing the starter motor is a fairly straightforward task, there are a few common issues that can arise:

• Stuck bolts: If the bolts holding the starter or engine cover are corroded or stuck, apply a penetrating lubricant and let it sit for a few minutes before trying to loosen them again.
• Wiring confusion: Take a photo or label the wires before disconnecting them to ensure you reconnect them correctly.
• Difficulty removing the engine cover: The engine cover may be stuck due to old gaskets. Gently tap around the edge with a rubber mallet to loosen it.

Insights and Tips for Easier Removal

• Use a magnetized tray to keep small parts and bolts organized during the removal process. Losing bolts can delay your project.
• Check the solenoid while you’re inspecting the starter motor. Sometimes issues with the starter are actually related to the solenoid, which may need to be replaced or cleaned.
• Label your wires: Before removing any wires, label them with small pieces of tape. This will make it easier to reconnect everything correctly later.
• Take pictures: Document the process with pictures, especially if this is your first time removing the starter motor. It can help when you’re putting things back together.

Conclusion

Removing the starter motor from your Honda 1969 CB350 K1 may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and guidance, it can be a straightforward process that enhances your motorcycle maintenance skills.

This essential task not only allows you to address potential starter issues but also gives you a chance to inspect and clean critical components of your bike’s ignition system.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently tackle the removal and reinstallation of the starter motor, ensuring your classic bike remains in peak condition for years to come.

Remember, proper maintenance is key to the longevity of your motorcycle, and understanding how to perform tasks like this is invaluable for any motorcycle enthusiast. Happy riding!

FAQs

Q: How do I know if my starter motor needs to be replaced?

If your bike struggles to start or makes a grinding noise when trying to turn over, the starter motor might be failing. You can also test the motor by checking for continuity with a multimeter.

Q: Can I clean the starter motor instead of replacing it?

Yes, in some cases, a thorough cleaning of the motor, gears, and electrical connections can fix minor issues. However, if internal parts like gears or windings are worn out, replacement is necessary.

Q: Do I need a new gasket for the engine cover?

It’s always a good idea to have a new gasket on hand in case the old one is damaged during removal. A bad gasket can cause oil leaks, which can lead to other engine problems.

Q: Is removing the starter on a Honda CB350 K1 something I can do myself?

Yes! With the right tools and some patience, you can definitely remove and reinstall the starter yourself. Just follow this guide carefully, and don’t rush the process.