QuestionI have now asked a couple of questions of you, and it is so refreshing to have access to someone's wealth of knowledge- kind of what the internet was intended to be in the first place!
Thank YOU! Anyway... I'm "restoring" a '75 CB360 and have read dozens of postings and articles regarding the poorly designed charging systems on many older Japanese bikes. Since I am breaking down and rebuilding the entire engine and tranny, can you point me toward a replacement kit of somekind. A better stator assembly and/or rectifier maybe? I have seen product that also replace the points with an electronic ignition which I also would like to explore. I realise you probably can't "advertise" specific products (due to implied liability) but if you could steer me a little it would be appreciated.
AnswerPatrick, the standard charging system of a CB360 is sufficient for that bikes's needs, as built. The only thing that could be replaced to ensure more reliability and performance is the ignition system. I think that the Newtronics company in the UK makes an electronic ignition that will fit the 350-360 series of machines.
The bike already has a silicon rectifier and separate regulator which should be sufficient for the job. Rewinding the stator for more output would be a waste of money, unless you are adding a lot of electrical loads to the bike.
The 360s were not necessarily the high point of Honda's twins, due to the vibration factors and rather generic engineering overall. I prefer the 4 cylinder bikes from that era.
The 250-305s did need some upgrades in the electrical departments and those have been accomplished to a certain degree by myself and others.
If you were restoring a Yamaha, there would be more concern in the way of electronic upgrades and reliability.
I suggest just freshing up the motor, adding electronic ignition and then go ride it!
Bill Silver
www.vintagehonda.com
