Topic: CB400F 1975 basket case

[Golo]

I have bought a CB400F 1975 basket case. Bought it from a guy that have had it for 5-6 years and was planing to build a cafe racer but never started. Original rims, handlebar and exhaust silencer is missing. He have collected a lot of new parts like new black rims, led hoop, black handlebar, cafe racer style seat and a new aftermarket silencer. He have also bought spare parts like engine gaskets, seals, bearing, seat etc.
Chrome fenders are rusted and needs to be replaced (or painted).

I´m not sure where to go frem here. I dont like the idea to modify the frame so the led hoop and cafe racer seat will be sold. I want to keep it as original as possible but use the black rims and will not paint it in original colors nor do I intend to keep all the chrome details. I´m intending to strip the tank to bare metal and coat it with something to prevent it from rusting. Suggestions will be appreciated.

I´m a rebuild novice and need advice where to start. Should I for example fist do a engine restoration or should i paint the frame?

[Shtonecb500]

here, people do it for me. Nice tank.

[RAFster122s]

Repaint your frame and black chassis parts, then it is ready when the motor and other bits are good to go back in it...

[Golo]

Since the engine is partly apart, should I tear it completely apart and replace all ware parts? Next question is what is ware parts? I know piston rings, gaskets and sealer needs to be replaced. What else? Should I replace cam chain and tensioner?

I will have cylinders checks and honed/bored professionally.

[Golo]

Repaint your frame and black chassis parts, then it is ready when the motor and other bits are good to go back in it...

Thanks, I’ll start with the frame. I’m considering just remove the rust my self and paint it with 2K paint at home to save some money and it’s fun to do it your self. Or should I get it sandblasted and powder coated professionally?

[RAFster122s]

Sand blasting professionally done is quick and good,just protect the data plate on the headstock. If affordable, it makes it quicker to strip to bare metal for repaint.
But you can use chemical strippers and wire brushes to achieve similar results...just more time.
Powdercoating is near impossible to fix any chips that develop, so I prefer paint.

[MauiK3]

At risk of boring folks, I'm a POR 15 fan topcoated with their chassis black. It's super tough, has just the right sheen and easy to fix. Goes on well and self levels.

[desertrefugee]

At risk of boring folks, I'm a POR 15 fan topcoated with their chassis black. It's super tough, has just the right sheen and easy to fix. Goes on well and self levels.

Agreed, but it’s also darn expensive.

[Golo]

In the back of the crank case the letters BABBB is written. Does that say something about the con rod bearings?