Topic: Triple tree spacers

[Nayl]

Looking at my 76 750F1 last night and noticed that it doesn't have the spacers (the D shaped washers) on the upper triple clamps, which seems really odd since its relatively low mileage, I can't imagine why anyone would have removed them, ever.  And its somewhat unclear if this bike actually came with them, researching the various threads here seems to indicate there was a change made during the 76 model year where they were eliminated.  Given that replacements are ludicrously overpriced, is there any definitive word on this?

[Stev-o]

I just checked the fiche and it shows them for your bike. 

http://www.westernhonda.com/fiche_section_detail.asp?section=2451402&category=Motorcycles&make=Honda&year=1976&fveh=131094

I think I paid $20 for a couple on eBay last year, is it really worth the risk?

[grcamna2]

I don't see them in that link Stev-o.. what reference number ?

[Nayl]

I've seen that diagram too, (its part #14, listed as "spacer").  If its needed, then I will get some, but I really don't feel like setting fire to ~$30 (with shipping) for what are basically two washers if they aren't actually needed.

[grcamna2]

Havnig them will keep your headlight nice and tight,especially when you hit rough roads. 

[CBDee]

You can make your own. There's a thread in tips n tricks that covers the procedure:
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,72765.0.html

[Nayl]

Thanks much for the link.  Ordered a set of those cylinder head washers from Western Honda, $8.50 delivered, which falls below my "omfg!" threshold for random, possibly necessary parts.

[Powderman]

The spacers are intended to keep you from breaking the ears off the tree.  I believe the tree was also redesigned and replaced that year also, deleteing the need for the spacers.

[Stev-o]

The spacers are intended to keep you from breaking the ears off the tree.  I believe the tree was also redesigned and replaced that year also, deleteing the need for the spacers.

That is correct, for instance, the fiche for the '76 750K does not show it. 

I've made them before too, pretty simple. 

[riverfever]

I just strolled around the hardware store with my calipers until I found washers that were the correct thickness. Then used a Dremel to cut them. Probably less than a buck.

[Powderman]

The spacers are intended to keep you from breaking the ears off the tree.  I believe the tree was also redesigned and replaced that year also, deleteing the need for the spacers.

That is correct, for instance, the fiche for the '76 750K does not show it. 

I've made them before too, pretty simple. 

The fiche posted shows the 2 different trees for that year with a superseded number for the old one.

[MCRider]

Thanks much for the link.  Ordered a set of those cylinder head washers from Western Honda, $8.50 delivered, which falls below my "omfg!" threshold for random, possibly necessary parts.

I wrote that link. I will mail you a couple of cyl head washers for free if you want them. I've got a small drawer full.

[Nayl]

MCRider- thanks, but already placed the order.

[david 750f]

Honda changed the top triple (bridge) on the 76F's part way through the 1976 model year. After serial number 2009781 there is NO washer.

[Nayl]

Very cool piece of info, thank you!  If I may ask, where do you come by this fact?  Is there somewhere a breakdown of the various changes like this within model years?

[david 750f]

The changes are listed in the Honda factory parts manual.