Motorcycle Repair: 1982 Honda 750 timing chain, honda 750 nighthawk, internal combustion engines

Question
Chris
I am considering purchasing a 1982 Honda 750 Nighthawk but the owner tried to change the timing chain and it only spits and sputters after his work.  It it possible to adjust the timing without dismantleing the engine?  Is there a master link in the timing chain?  Should I stay away from this problem?
I am an automotive mechanic.

Answer
Hi Jim.
 As an automotive mechanic, you are already equipped with the basic knowledge (and most all of the tools) to repair this, or any problem with the bike.

Many times, mechanics get flustered by simple mechanical problems in vehicle types that they do not normally do work on.  I have seen this with motorcycle mechanics when their car breaks down as well as auto mechanics when their bike breaks down and aircraft mechanics when their car or bike breaks down.

They all forget that, with few exceptions, an engine is an engine (not including jets).  All internal combustion engines run basically the same.  The only difference between most cars and most motorcycles is the number of carbs (so there are synchronization issues as far as that) and the engine size.  All the rest is specific details.

Now as far as the timing, you may need to pull the upper head a bit to make some changes, but it is the same as any car.  If it's not too far out of whack, then you should be able to adjust it.  Cam chains on bikes do have a master link, so major adjustment and/or replacement is possible.

You should be quite capable of handling this problem.  Make sure that you have the repair manual for all of the correct settings and specs on the bike and you should be just fine with it.

Good luck.
FALCON