'78 Honda CB400A Headlight Restore

[Mustang_Cougar]

First off, this is a great forum. I've been here about an hour and will probably still be here in another three.

Anyway, I recently picked up a nice little '78 CB400A that is in great mechanical shape, but needs some cosmetics. One of the first issues I need to address is removing the gigantic Vetter windshield fairing and returning the bike to it's original look. The main problem I'm having is locating a complete headlight assembly and turn signals. I've tried Ebay but it's been a wash and my local Honda dealership wants $100+ for the light, bezel, bucket, mounts, etc. Are there any other online resources for older Honda parts?

Also, I'm in need of a couple of stock mufflers...if anyone has any ideas.

Thanks.

MC

[TechTMW]

The cheapest way to go is to check a motorcycle junk yard. Chances are they will have what you need. There should be one within driving distance of you, but if not there is a resource online that leats you contact junkyards to find out if they have what you are looking for (Though I forget the name of the site)

Mufflers will be tougher. You'd probably be best off getting aftermarket jobs. 70's and 80's bike mufflers RUST so finding a used one in good shape will be tough. Finding NOS will probably be difficult (And expensive)

[Mustang_Cougar]

Thanks for the reply.

I was able to locate a 400 Hondamatic Yahoo forum that offered some solutions for missing parts. Oldbikebarn.com had a new Honda headlight assembly w/bucket for ~$75 and I've already found a couple of from turn signals on Ebay for less than $10.

What about aftermarket seat covers? I've never restored a bike before (though I've done a few Mustangs) and though it looks fairly simple to do, is there anything I should be aware of? This Hondamatic has an aftermarket double-bucket seat, but the pan is original. I've a feeling that the foam pad is not correct, not to mention probably worn out by now. Where do you get generic padding at?

Thanks again.

MC

[sharpmagna]

Try these sites for honda OEM parts:

servicehonda.com
hdlparts.com

They normally beat the dealer by a good chunk of change.