Topic: CB400F:Right hand handle bar switch-replace or just stick with my MacGyver fix?

[Kurt V]

Well one of the few problems with my new to me '76 400F was that the starter button didn't work and the headlight would not come on. A search of the board indicated that the starter button was probably defective rendering the headlight and starter button inoperable. Took the housing apart and sure enough the starter button housing had disintegrated. No surprise as it was 36 years old. So anyways, I jumped the contacts on the ends of the wires to allow the headlight to come on when the ignition switch is in the on position. Wrapped electric tape around the contact and closed it back up inside the housing.

Now of course the starter button still does not work, but even in today's 25 degree weather I could easily kick start the bike. The kill switch does work properly.

The questions are: Is it worth replacing the right hand switch housing and wiring? Is the made in China one worth buying? Any OEM ones available? Thanks all!

[MoMo]

OEM switches are availabe from most Honda internet sites, such as motogrid or mrcycles. Price is right around $100 plus shipping. I've had to buy at least two for the rebuilds I've done...Larry

[Kurt V]

Thanks for the info. How big of a pain in the butt is it to get the old wiring out and the new in? Where on the bike are the bullet connectors connected to the rest of the harness? Thanks!

[Don R]

It's a job getting the wires pulled inside the bars, a little brain work and a little lube, not so bad. I fished a wire in backwards and used it to pull/push the bundle in. The bullet connections are made inside the headlight bucket.
 I ran a temporary switch on my 76 F. It worked but not as handy as a factory switch. i've got a replacement on my F, hondaman sells a relay that removes the load from the switches, they will last longer that way.

[Stev-o]

I also bought a new OEM RH control for about a $100, felt it was worth it for my 550.

Do you plan to keep the bike?  Call the dealer and see if it is available for your bike, then decide.

[seanbarney41]

lots of suspect condition used ones here and on ebay, they are usually snapped up quick!