Editor’s note: If you’re having trouble with that old Suzuki, BSA or BMW, Keith Fellenstein is your guy. From motorcycle tuning tips to detailed motorcycle engine repair, he can draw from a wealth of experience to help guide you to success. Send questions to: Keith’s Garage, 1503 SW 42nd St., Topeka, KS 66609, or send an e-mail with “Keith’s Garage” as the subject.
Honda oil pressure
Q: I have just finished rebuilding a 1970 Honda CB750K. It is my first attempt at rebuilding this type of engine. I have rebuilt other types with good success.
I now have about 480 miles on the engine and it is running great. It sounds good and doesn’t leak a drop. My problem is the oil pressure. Lately I find that after running the engine for about 30 minutes the oil pressure light comes on at an idle. I suspected the oil pressure switch. So I pulled it and have installed a pressure gauge. When cold the pressure starts at about 65lb. After running for about 15 minutes it drops to 60lb and remains there no matter how long I run it. — Daniel Pensyl/League City, Texas
A: According to the shop manual, the oil pressure bypass valve is set to 56.9psi at 4,000rpm for an engine temp of 176 degrees Fahrenheit. It looks like your engine has the correct oil pressure. An old rule of thumb was 10lb of pressure for every 1,000rpm, which makes your setup exactly right at about 6,000rpm. If your oil pressure light continues to light, it could be the switch that’s faulty. They’re still available for about $35. If you look for it on a parts schematic, it’s part no. 37240-P13-013 on the starter motor schematic. MC
