Tune up

[1973gts]

I apologize in advance for this topic (because I should probably have this knowledge already) but I would like to know the steps to do a complete tune up (points, plugs, timing, valves, cam chain tensioner, etc) and the order in which they are done. I have looked but have not been able to locate a write up on here, the other site, or a trusted online source (it may be here but I could not locate it). This would be for a cb/sl350. Thanks in advance. - Dave

[teebo]

You should start with the Factory Service Manual. Admins here might be able to provide a link, but you can also search for it.

The FSM is The Word and will tell you everything.

69 CB350K1/68 CB450K0

[1973gts]

I have checked it but wasn't able to find a specific in order list for a complete tune up, just headings of each specific procedure.

[ballbearian]

I like the simple list in the owner's manual for Maintenance items. Then read the owner's manual for the order i.e., timing chain adjustment then points then timing then carb adjustment, etc. After that, I always read the FSM for more detail and use both sources of info. Everything on the maintenance list needs to be done. Like an oil change should include cleaning the oil filter for sure.

[ancientdad]

Moved to Tips and Tricks section.

The Owner's Manual is a good idea for the basics. While I was graduating up the size ladder during high school and working at Honda shops, the FSMs were only at the dealership and at the time my father and I didn't know if they could even be purchased, so I went by the Owner's Manual for each bike if I had it or read bike magazine articles when we didn't. I'm sure most know by now that back then, the Owner's Manual was like a mini-FSM and told you a lot about basic maintenance (cue the joke about today's Owner's Manuals only telling you not to drink the contents of the battery, LOL).

All of our bikes, regardless of engine size, have basically all the same components and need all the same adjustments whether they're OHV like the older small singles and the CX/GL500/650 twins (which won't have a cam chain adjustment), or SOHC/DOHC like all the rest of the twins.

I always start with valves and cam chain, removing the valve covers (on the DOHC 450/500T) to help better adjust the cam chain by the visual of watching which valves open at what crankshaft position so the tensioner can properly do its job based on the tensioner design and operation (spring-assisted roller or slipper-style). Of course, the 350 has the position on the crankshaft at 90° past LT (IIRC) where all valves are closed (or almost completely closed) for proper cam chain adjustment.

Adjust the cam chain first, then the valves (always done stone cold, overnight is best), then the points/timing. The actual mileage interval for cleaning the oil filter will be in the FSM but I never bother with it at every oil change, it's been my experience that if you change your oil often enough and the engine isn't in need of any long-term wear item replacements like cam chain rollers and the cam chain has always been adjusted regularly, you won't find the build-up of aluminum filings in it from sloppy cam chain wear on the cylinder or head chain tunnel. You'll know your engine best, particularly if you've gone through it after a lazy PO or two had let things go as we've so often seen.

[1973gts]

Thanks, AD, that's what I was looking for, appreciate it!