Topic: CB400F Crankcase Oil Leak

[jakec]

Thanks guys this is really helpful information. I will contact the guy with the cases and tell him what I need. Is there anything else that I need to worry about that can be specific to the cases? I'm sure he will be willing to include other parts if I need them.

Are those large objects on the crank counterweights for the pistons/jugs?

[jakec]

I received photos of the cases from the engine he stripped down. He says there is similar damage near the boss, but not penetration into the oilway (he says this engine never leaked). Do you think that this would be repairable considering there was no penetration into the oilway? If not, he says he has a complete engine he'd be willing to sell me.

[jakec]

Ok so here are my options. I would appreciate some advice although I think I know which way I am leaning at the moment.

Option A is to purchase the cases I showed above, with damage. Asking price $100. Seller says the engine they came off of was dry so he doesn't think the damage ever caused a leak. I could see about having these cases welded and then rebuild my motor into them.

Option B is to purchase this motor. Asking price $325. Seller wants to keep the electric start and kick start (I guess he needs these parts). He said he would include them if I needed them (but I don't really). He also said that it "sounds like low compression" in one cylinder so he suggests a top end job before throwing it in my bike. I'm ok with doing a top end.

[jakec]

I'm not sure, he said he has been a mechanic his whole life and that was just his impression when the cranked it over (never seen it on a bike, he bought it benched). If I buy an engine for $325 and then ship it.. I think i'm up there in the $$$. I asked someone I know who has shipped an engine and they said it was $250.

I guess option C is a top end / head gasket on my current engine and continue to deal with the crankcase oil leak. I hate that it leaks (always having to top off). Maybe I can reduce the leaking by 25-50% if I fix the top end leaks, though. That option starts to look more attractive when I think about $500 just to get another engine with unknown issues.