Motorcycle Repair: 1975 Hnda 360T Starter Problem, honda 360t, starter clutch

Question
Hi Bill:
 I have a 1975 Honda 360T that has a starter that will spin the chain and only engage the engine briefly, then continues to spin the chain. The motor and chain are good. I have removed the left side cases and can free spin the large gear under the alternator in one direction. I have a second 1975 360 that I can use for donor parts. It will turn the engine over as it should. Can you advise me as to how I should proceed? I have loosened the bolt on the alternator but don't want to proceed without some guideance. I have a pic of this but I'm not sure how to post it to this site. I could email it to you if it would be of any assistance.
 Thanks in advance for any help offered. Ralph

Answer
Ralph, log into http://www.powersportspro.com/Partsfish/Login.asp

Select HONDA, then CB360T, then the GENERATOR section.
There is a starter clutch on the back side of the rotor, which has three springs/rollers/caps that probably need replacing. You MUST use the proper rotor tool to remove the rotor without damaging it.

Usually just the springs are compressed and need changing. They are very delicate and tend to fail due to heat and vibration. I would suggest getting new springs and reusing the other good parts, if at all possible. Most Honda shops have the springs in stock as they fit a lot of applications.

Go to a local m/c shop and see if they have a tool that fits. Honda uses a few sizes to fit many models. They are made in the aftermarket, too, so you don't have to buy the factory tool to do the job.

Here's info on the Motion Pro version:
#MP10 16mm x 1.5mm RH Internal
Early model CR125MX and CR250MX Elsinore
ATC90/110-ATV's,C175-C350, CM185/CM200T,
CMX250/CMX450, CB/CL/SL
175/350/400/450,CB500/CB500K,CB360,CB400,CM450,CM250,CT90,
Late model CBR600 Hurricane,
CB650SC Nighthawk, CB700SC Nighthawk


Bill Silver