Topic: Gordon Frame Kit In-Frame Head Removal Mods CB750 - New Video Added

[RRRToolSolutions]

Updated July 27, 2015 -

Guys, I am posting a YouTube link to a brand-new video on the Gordon Frame Kit. This video explains what it is and how it works. This may help you decide if you want/need one.

Thanks, Gordon/RTS

Original, unmodified post from 2006 -

Fellas, as many of you have been following, I just completed the in-frame head removal mods to my CB750 K4 (link below). This project went together perfectly and the fit was really sweet. I also believe it to be stronger than the original tubing once completed.

http://www.sohc4.us/forums/index.php?topic=15213.0

I installed the tank and seat last night and finished up the carburettor sync this morning (you all have to try the new Carbtune gauge - it's so easy!). I rode it by the machine shop this morning to show Charles how it turned out and to let him know that I'm just tickled about it turned-out and how easy it was to bolt-up. Charles is 64 years old and has some health issues. He asked me if he could make some more.

Here's the deal. I don't want a dime. I will give full, detailed instructions, measurements, photos, ect. Charles will machine the 8 pieces from solid cold-rolled steel, thread, tap, and install the treaded Grade 8 bolts (10 of them), and all you do is measure, cut, and weld in-place. I would do this for 2 reasons - 1) I'd like to help as many that want to do it, and 2) I've known Charles for years and when I saw his excitement at looking at what "he had machined and what it was for" I was convinced.

Price would likely be in the $100 range (I'm guessing here because the more he sets-up for the better and cheaper it gets. I paid him by the hour for mine because every step was a 1st time excercise and my hourly total was only $200 materials and labor.

You guys can go to EBay and look-up Carolinaburt and see I've got 500 or so 100% positives on feedback. I'm no crook, I don't want a dime of this. It's only an offer if you guys would like to do this mod.

Regards,
Gordon

[fourplay]

Gordon,

Thanks for addressing this problem. I have seen a lot of these frames with the missing tubing.

I have worked out a system for using a repacement set of tubes also.

Here is a rough drawing of my design. I am just using a clevis with the clamping action of two hardened fasteners on both ends of the tube.

[RRRToolSolutions]

Please don't take this the wrong way. I don't mean this like "mines better". I'm not any kind of engineer, just an old anal-retentitive nut who loves his old bikes.  I had Charles come to my house so I could show him the systems used on both of my new Kawasakis. The 1500 Nomad touring bike and the ZRX1100 have the 1/2 system that bolts-in the right downtubes. When he saw these, he explained that they would be the strongest joint he could make. His explanation was that by having 1/2 of the diameter on each side, each piece benefitted from the "side load" that comes from having 1/2 the diameter. The pieces left in the center or on either side of the design you've shown don't have much cross-sectional area and don't get much "side load" strength. I'm not sure how these are loaded, but I wanted to be sure. They are both probably more than is needed to keep the frame from compressing when under load or hitting a dip/bump when the pressures on the steering head are their greatest. One last reason Charles liked the two halves is that he could thread them and get the 1.5 times bolt diameter so it would hold up to the Grade 8's 25 lbs/feet tightening torque. He did not want to through-bolt it and use nuts.

I can't take credit for the design - Kawasaki does this on all of their larger bikes. Their reasoning must have good logic since they can tool-up to make the best joint. Imagine the lawsuit and liabilities they'd face if these started breaking, so I'm convinced Charles was right - he couldn't design a better one.This mod is so straight forward, I would do it for any new project or if I ever needed to get to the top-end it would be the first step. The heck with stripping the frame so the engine can be turned on it's side.

Have you installed yours? I'd like to see pics.

Again, please don't take this in any kind of context other than what I mean it - to be objective and helpful.

Regards,
Gordon

[fourplay]

Gordon,

No offense taken. I have been thinking about this problem for a long time. The drawing I submitted is just something I jotted down while it was fresh in my mind.

Keep in mind though that what you are seeing is not drawn to scale. Also any design always has some later revisions.

I think my design will work fine, but it has to be done to exact tolerances on any one bike. In other words a custom fit. Your design can work on any bike which is a big plus for anyone who doesn't have the know how or tools to make their own. I like how you can make adjustments too.

I do all my own work so none of this is a big problem. But I think your design can save a lot of frames or help the person who likes to service the motor in frame. Why Honda didn't think of this is beyond me.

[RRRToolSolutions]

On the triangulated piece for the middle, you'll find that you've got to cut it at the upper part. We made our cuts parallel to the top horizontal brace. If you cut it parallel with the bottom brace, your head cover will not have the clearance needed for removal (or so it was with mine). I mention that because I'm not sure how you have the attachment drawn out. Am I making any sense?

My head hurts when I have to think.....

Regards,
Gordon

[paulages]

i'm definitely interested. when i tear down my K3, i'd like to do this prior to powdercoating. blueprints would be great!

[fourplay]

 Gordon,

I was not sure how i was gonna do the triange in the middle. I did like you and used something else as an example. After looking at your stuff I remembered my old V45 Magna had a removable frame section coupled like yours.

I think you might be able to market this to help folks out. If you can turn this stuff as a kit for $100, you may be on to something.

Thanks for your input.

Vance

[archimeech]

Hey all,
I've got to mod my K5 frame and was wondering if anyone has the info.  I've tried clicking on the link below but it's a dead link now.

Fellas, as many of you have been following, I just completed the in-frame head removal mods to my CB750 K4 (link below). This project went together perfectly and the fit was really sweet. I also believe it to be stronger than the original tubing once completed.

http://www.sohc4.us/forums/index.php?topic=15213.0

I installed the tank and seat last night and finished up the carburettor sync this morning (you all have to try the new Carbtune gauge - it's so easy!). I rode it by the machine shop this morning to show Charles how it turned out and to let him know that I'm just tickled about it turned-out and how easy it was to bolt-up. Charles is 64 years old and has some health issues. He asked me if he could make some more.

Here's the deal. I don't want a dime. I will give full, detailed instructions, measurements, photos, ect. Charles will machine the 8 pieces from solid cold-rolled steel, thread, tap, and install the treaded Grade 8 bolts (10 of them), and all you do is measure, cut, and weld in-place. I would do this for 2 reasons - 1) I'd like to help as many that want to do it, and 2) I've known Charles for years and when I saw his excitement at looking at what "he had machined and what it was for" I was convinced.

Price would likely be in the $100 range (I'm guessing here because the more he sets-up for the better and cheaper it gets. I paid him by the hour for mine because every step was a 1st time excercise and my hourly total was only $200 materials and labor.

You guys can go to EBay and look-up Carolinaburt and see I've got 500 or so 100% positives on feedback. I'm no crook, I don't want a dime of this. It's only an offer if you guys would like to do this mod.

Regards,
Gordon

[flybox1]

Weldless frame kit
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,142092.0/all.html

[Powderman]

Weldless frame kit
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,142092.0/all.html

You beat me to it while I step away for a moment.
Contact 754 for his kit here:

Maker of the WELDLESS 750 Frame Kit
dodogas99@gmail.com
Kelowna B.C.       Canada

[754]

I can only get machining time on a limited basis. ,I have a few spoken for already.
 Should have few available soon..

[RRRToolSolutions]

Hi Guys, I have the Gordon Frame Kits packed and ready to go.

You'll need to send me a message or mail letting me know that you're from this SOHC Forum group because I have a special $15 discount I give our members.

You can see them and more on my website, but the discount is available only through this SOHC Forum.

http://www.rrrtoolsolutions.com/

Thanks, Gordon/RTS

[RRRToolSolutions]

Guys, I am posting a YouTube link to a brand-new video on the Gordon Frame Kit. This video explains what it is and how it works. This may help you decide if you want/need one.

Thanks, Gordon/RTS

[Garage_guy_chris]

I highly endorse frame kits, i pulled my engine without one and its bloody tight. Today i had the pleasure of remounting the engine with the frame kit out and its soo easy tons of space to work with

[PeWe]

Same here... Frame modification is a must unless an OEM restoration in smallest detail. I have lifted my valve cover 8-10 times the last 1,5 year. Lifted head for restore, replace cam studs, tested different cams and timings, repaired threads in head....
I need one more CB750. If restore from a naked frame, Gordon kit will be installed.

[disco]

My CB750 classic weekly rider is 43 years old.....it's inevitable that it will require on-going maintenance. That maintenance cannot be put off. To me a frame kit makes a lot of sense, to be able to carry out simple top end repairs with the engine still in the frame. It also makes it an easy decision to fit a kit like this, when the solution is so well thought out.

[PeWe]

If engine is modified...testing different cams is fun. Pull the entire engine with everything that has to be done before and after will not encourage for cam replacement unless the cam is really bad.

[newday777]

Guys, I am posting a YouTube link to a brand-new video on the Gordon Frame Kit. This video explains what it is and how it works. This may help you decide if you want/need one.

Thanks, Gordon/RTS

Gordon
You didn't say clearly in the video, do you weld the kit into the frame at all 8 insert locations?
Thanks

[PeWe]

There are several threads about this.  Yes, the parts must be welded on 8 locations. Easier when restoring the bike everything off before painting the frame.

Maybe this old thread can help
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=43997.msg457716.msg#457716

[Bankerdanny]

Guys, I am posting a YouTube link to a brand-new video on the Gordon Frame Kit. This video explains what it is and how it works. This may help you decide if you want/need one.

Thanks, Gordon/RTS

Gordon
You didn't say clearly in the video, do you weld the kit into the frame at all 8 insert locations?
Thanks

Alternatively you can order the weldless kit made by Scottly and Frank754. I have one on my 750 and I know many other owners use it as well. It is not a better or worse option than Gordon's well respected kit, just another option.