My kickstart housing is cracked and will be grateful for help from forum members who have had similar problems.
Is this a common issue, eg a weakness with the housing, or is it something not so common?
Can this be left as is without any further issues, assuming that stresses causing the crack have been relieved?
If I need to weld it, I would normally do the weld prep, then take it to an expert to weld. Should I expect distortion, requiring machining after welding?
The crack runs through the boss. Should I leave this and only weld the outside, thus eliminating the need for re-machining the boss?
Or perhaps I should scrap the item and find a replacement? Are these items readily available?
Any help is appreciated.
email (option): pvlietstra@gmail.com
Personally, I wouldn't weld the kick start boss itself...I have found they distort and are nearly impossible to machine to the normal size after welding...If they are recoverable it is only by machining slightly oversize and making a new bush to suit...
However, boring the hole larger weakens the casing even more...
The method I use is to turn down the outside of the boss (inside the gearbox)and fit a snug fitting steel sleeve to support the boss...This is Loctited with 'retainer' grade Loctite...See the picture below. Bear in mind that the kickstart spring will still have to fit once the work is done...You could weld the less critical areas to repair the case....
...Ian
email (option): ian@wright52.plus.com