450 engine install

[exeric]

I’ve been thinking about how to put the 450 motor for my Honda, into it’s frame. Earlier in the week, I got it in a bear hug, and did a test lift. Two things instantly occurred to me; first, that motor is a hellu’va lot heavier than it looks, and second, I’m not as strong as I used to be. The last motor I muscled into a frame was for my ‘16J and it’s no where near as heavy as this Honda motor. I’ve thought about using this engine hoist I’ve had in a disassembled state, but the thought of digging it all out, and putting it back together was not appealing in the least. It’s not a cheap hoist, and all the tubing is 1/4” wall and heavy as (you know what). Well, I put it back together and it was as much of a PITA as I thought it would be, but it works like a dream. Tomorrow I’m going to position the frame and attempt to put the motor in without scratching paint, or dropping it on my foot. I’m posting this because I’m curious how the Honda guys here at the AMCA have put motors in their frames, particularly a 4 cylinder.

[Rubone]

On its side, on the floor.

[exeric]

I had thought about that, Robbie, but I had a lot of work to do on the fork, and fender and needed the front end together and on the frame to check everything out. As time went on, more crap got bolted on and now I just don't want to lay it down. Also, I'm not kidding about how heavy that motor is. I could still go that way, but I hate to take it all apart; and now I'm just whining

[Steve Swan]

installing a 4 cyl engine, it is ideal to do it the way the factory did it, at least in the early days (somewhere i have pictures of factory men doing this). in the case of the Honda CB750 engine, installation is most easily carried out with a bare frame. The engine is blocked up on its right side, and the bare frame is lifted above and then moved down into and around the various projections of the engine which has its oil filter cover and exhaust spigots removed. when the chassis is rolling, it's a 2 person job, i have done more than a few alone, but at 192 pounds, i will not (can't hasn't happened yet) move that engine around like i used to. with the 4 cyl, thre's a number of up and down, forward and back and angular moves to be made to install the engine in a rolling chassis.

unsurprisingly, Eric, your work is beautiful. in your case, i would cover the contact areas in a couple layers of paper towels wrapped in duct tape where the engine can strike frame parts. if at all possible, find a somewhat mechanically inclined 2nd person to assist. otherwise, go slow, critique your every projected next move before you make the next move. i am confident you'll come out the winner.

[Sargehere]

Lay the motor on its side on the floor and block it level. Bring the frame to the motor. That's the only sane way to do it. I've used that method for everything from Hondas to Harleys. Good luck!

[exeric]

Thanks for the 4 cylinder insight, Steve. I figured a 4 cylinder install would be a tricky process and quite advanced for a Honda neophyte like me. The more I look at this, the more I am reconsidering Robbie's suggestion of laying the engine on it's side, and placing the frame over it. Regardless of which method I use, I'm looking at more work than I expected. The end result is to try and do a good job, and not screw anything up and that has to be the priority. . . But, I was hoping for easy

[Steve Swan]

Eric, i love the red frame. this will be gorgeous when finished.

[Jim]

Well.... I have to admit, I've just learned something by reading this thread! I haven't done that many engine installs but I've never put one in by laying the engine on its side. Hmmm... maybe next time! OH... I've installed two H-D VLs and a Honda CB160to wrap my ever loving arms around and set into the frames... or then again, maybe I was young enough! HAHA!!

[exeric]

I took Robbie, and Sarge’s advice and layed the motor on it’s side, and placed the frame over it. That really did make a lot more sense. I wrapped the frame tubes with old bicycle inner tubes to protect the paint, and blocked the motor as required. I still used the engine hoist and I am glad I had it available as it really took some risk, and muscle strain out of the equation. I can’t say it was a piece of cake as it really did beat my old, tired ass but I now know I can continue to build bikes and do some of the heavy lifting misery by using my head, and well applied tools. Thanks to everyone that gave advice, and experience.





Nelson helped.



I used the engine hoist to put the motor/frame assembly on the lift.



I had to do some assembly.

[aumick10]

When installing motors this way, be aware that some motors will only go in one way. Often the motor will need to be installed from the right hand side of the bike.
Looks like it didn't matter with your 450.
I have never seen a red frame CB450. Is that an OEM color, or just to your likening?
Cheers

[exeric]

A number of years ago, a friend in California sent me pictures of a CB450 he built, and painted red. They were never painted red in the early days as all of them were black. I never forgot how good that bike looked, even though I was hard-core vintage American bike only. After seeing those pictures, I kept a look out for early Honda Black Bombers. If this bike had been in decent original condition, I wouldn't have messed with it, but it was horribly neglected for over 40 years, and after seeing some of the inane, inept, and abusive things that had been done to it, I felt comfortable in restoring it. I think Honda should have offered red, blue, and black.

[Steve Swan]

Couldn't concur more fully, Eric. your next project needs to be a earlier Superhawk. The came in red blue and black from the factory albeit black was the only color that looked good. the red was a pale ketchup and the blue wasn't too bad. they came with matching red, blue and black seats.

[Steve Swan]

Bravissimo! better to do a little re-disassembly then fight the beeotch.

[painterdale]

Lookin' good, Eric!

Dale

[pisten-bully]

...virtual “like button” hit! That frame looks like a very complex piece of fabrication...wow!