Learning the Basics

[balibill]

Hi I jusut bought a '65 Honda dream 305. My first bike and am trying to learn the basics. One posting mentioned "Bill's manual" would that be a good place to start? Looking for a basic understanding (owners maunal type stuff - unfortunatley the bike didn't come tih one. thanks.

Also have trouble starting it. Was starting fine before but now starts and cuts out after the inital revving or just turns over. Not sure if I should turn throttlr when starting (or if that is flooding it). Sorry to be clueless but any feedback would be appreciated. There seems to be some sort of choke lever says "open" "lose" not sure where that should go or if it is unrealted . . . thanks. Also bike is in Napa area any reccomendation for shop in Bay Area?

thanks again,

B

[joeweir1]

Balibill-I was cluless too and this sight really helped when I got my first wreck of a Dream.Going over the old post is great since most common problems have been covered, but ask away.With any of the old bikes that have sat for awhile the carb needs cleaned, timing checked, new plugs and a new strong battery, and good points that are adjusted properly and good spark..The battery drains quickly if too many attempts are made using the starter and not starting.The choke is usually just needed on cold starts, so only lift it up all the way until it starts and warms up then gradually lower the lever.You will know if the engine dies if you do this too soon.You may have fouled the plugs.This seems to be a comon problem until the bike is set up properly.Make sure your float needle and seat are closing properly also or you may flood the engine.Make sure you have good fuel flow to the carb.So get acouple of sets of plugs to have on hand.There is a timing procedure in the FAQS section for the CL77/CB77's, but this can be followed also for the CA77 since this bike has the one set of points.Keep us posted and will help as needed.Ebay usually has owners manuals and Bills restore guide is a good source of info also.Joe