starter chain problem

[bobbike1985]

can someone fill me in on the problem with the starter chain break ?  i have a 1985 700sc with 21k miles. is it a year problem ? or just a weak part. thanks for any updates .

[mollusc]

Not restricted to any year, or even just the 700S/750S.  Seems to be mostly related to overstressing the starter/alternator chain, which typically happens during extended periods of cranking the starter at low voltage so it bucks rather than runs smoothly, or sudden massive engine overrun.

[Pete in PA]

For the 91-03 they beefed up the starter chain with 1 more link width.

The fix on the 80's bikes is use the chain from the 90-03.

[Hend238]

For the 91-03 they beefed up the starter chain with 1 more link width.

The fix on the 80's bikes is use the chain from the 90-03.

Can someone confirm if this is the correct p/n - 28161-MJ0-950. Thanks.

[Larry Fine]

Can someone confirm if this is the correct p/n - 28161-MJ0-950. Thanks.

https://www.partzilla.com/product/honda/28161-MJ0-950

Yes.

[mollusc]

Yes, that is the correct part number.
It's actually two rails wider, so it is substantially stronger but it still fits the 700S perfectly.

[Hend238]

Excellent thank you. I may buy one to have as a spare.

[mollusc]

Not really much point to that, since you have to disassemble the entire engine to replace it.  Just having the chain isn't going to help much when you need (at least) a whole engine gasket kit as well.

[Hend238]

Not really much point to that, since you have to disassemble the entire engine to replace it.  Just having the chain isn't going to help much when you need (at least) a whole engine gasket kit as well.

I'm slowly collecting spare parts that I feel are worth while. I have an engine gasket kit already. Every day parts are getting harder to source. I mean NOS or new OEM parts. I plan to keep my Honda running forever or until I die. Then my nephew can have the motorcycle and he will have a box of parts to keep it running for another 40 years. Cheap insurance and inflation proof.

[Gene]

 I wish they still had kickstarters. Sigh.

[Hend238]

Yeah, that's one feature I wish my Nighthawk S had.

[mollusc]

Kickstart wouldn't help in this case, since the same system also drives the alternator.
And you can always roll start anyway.

[Hend238]

I think everyone understands that a kickstarter won't get you moving if the starter chain is broken. I wish my Nighthawk had one simply because its a mechanical back up to the electric starter system. Particularly useful if bump starting isn't a practical option for what ever reason.

[bobbike1985]

thank you all for the info on my question.

[Hend238]

I think I jinxed myself. Starter rotates but not the motor. I hear the starter solenoid actuating, the sound of the whirling starter and the RPM needle climbs. Ahhhh! I should have kept my mouth shut!!