crank bearing check

[budpat105]

First off, I tried searching the forum with no luck. Then I went through all 53 pages, read a lot of posts. Boy did I learn a lot.I do have a service manual and see that I need to join the Hodaka club. I have a Model 95 Combat Wombat. I have gas tank problems among other things, and have read about the leak down test but was wondering if there is a way to test/guess if crank bearings are bad without splitting motor. After reading the "mechanic" post I see that there can be a lot of problems in one of these motors. That makes me think I should maybe take it to someone like Danny Cooke for the rebuild so the problems can be repaired, but my budget tells me to put a plastic tank on it and ride it. I did start it with a temp fuel supply but have not road it. What would everyone here suggest? What motor checks would you do? Thanks for your help..

[thrownchain]

Easiest to check is to try to move either end of the crank up and down. Any play means you gotta open it up. Also when you're turning it over, any noises coming from the bearing area? If it's "grumbling", that's not a good sign.

[hodakamax]

Anything that is 40 years plus old probably needs seals. Bearings and seals are a good starting point for any old motorcycle. Splitting the cases is not rocket science nor are the parts that expensive. If you're even slightly mechanically inclined I'd go for it. As for these engines having a lot of problems it's almost always caused by decades of abuse and/or negligence. When new or properly rebuilt they are somewhat bullet proof and can give years or even decades of service. I must say that your first case split and rebuild can be fun and most rewarding. I consider all of this to be "The Hodaka Experience".

This is not to say that having known experts like Danny rebuild your engine could certainly be done but It's up to you to decide on which path to take. Also remember that the Forum Gang is here to help!

As always, my opinion.

Maxie