Topic: 1974 CB550 starter delete

[stolle]

I read a few different ways of plugging the hole after the starter is removed none of which really appealed to me, they either cost too much or were not available. I set out to find my own solution, it had to be cheap easy to come by and easy to install. Here is what I came up with, hope this is useful to someone else.

I originally thought of just using a rubber stopper. But, I was worried about it falling out. Then I realised I could use a freeze plug, but I couldn't find any in stock that were 30mm and again I just thought they cost too much. I went to the hardware store and found a 1" copper cap for plumbing, was just over 30mm. So I bought it for $2.50.

Took it home and cut it down.


I used a piece of paper to gauge the thickness and cut the cap to match.


Massaged in place with a hammer and socket, the socket needs to be a little smaller than the copper. I also coated the copper with some grey RTV before installation.


I think it looks pretty sweet, I'm not using the stock cover or the chrome cover that was on top of the starter. Making my own out of a piece of sheet metal.

Thanks for looking!

[calj737]

I would expect that to leak oil, but perhaps not. Copper and aluminum expand at very different rates, so once the lower engine gets to operating temperature, and the oil is present, you may find yourself re-thinkning the solution. BUT, since I've not seen it done, it is only fair to say, it may work. Fingers crossed in earnest for you.

[stolle]

I thought the same thing I looked up the expansion rates of copper and aluminum and found that aluminum expands much more than copper. I'm hoping it doesn't leak, this is also why I used the grey RTV, for a little insurance. I have yet to get the engine to temp, I guess we shall see, I report back after the plug sees some heat cycles. Thank you.

[stolle]

So far, I have put 400 miles on the bike since the copper plug was installed and not one leak. the surrounding area is dry and free of oil. So I would say this is a viable solution for plugging the hole up after removing the starter. However, your results may vary. lol

[fr3ya]

It's been nearly a year.  Wondering how this solution is holding up.  If it's still a go I'll give it a shot. 

[stolle]

Been over a year and over 2000 miles and it's still tight and dry. I'll try and post pics this evening. And fix the broken links in the images in the original post.