New parts question, XJ400 Special

Hi all.

So I'm rebuilding the engine of my 1981 XJ400, 54 000 km. Just wanted to know if I need new primary and cam chains and also new piston pin circlips. The service manual actually indicates to use new circlips, but I thought I could get away without doing that. As for the chains, I'm not sure how I can check if the they are still good, nor can I find where to buy new ones in case I need them.

Any advice will be appreciated!

 

I would use new circlips. Check your cam chain tensioner if it is fully extended then replace the cam chain. Not sure about the primary chain setup on the 400 someone will.

 

el_flaco I would love know if the XJ400 has the same bottom end as the 650+
I'm wondering about the chains in your case aswell as they, from what I've read, may behave like drive chains in the XJ550.
Let's see what we can what we can find out.

 

Damn... nothing in the XJCD that helps. I suggest you put a PM into Chacal who knows all there is to know about XJs.
Good luck!

 

Reusing piston pin circlips is a recipe for disaster. They have already been through a ton of heat cycles, and the bending that occurs when removing them is the final step toward failure.

 

It does not.
The 400 is the precursor to the 550.
Of course that depends on which 400 is being referenced. The twin or the inline 4.
The twin is an entirely different animal. More akin to an XS650

 

Thanks for the reply! You recon circlips from a hardware store will do or I should use only Yamaha ones?

 

Thanks for trying to help out! I guess I'll PM Chacal then.

 

I also noticed that many parts are the same as in 550... and by the way I was referring to the inline 4, didn't even know there was a twin!

 

Only Yamaha ones. You don't want a circlip failing in your engine. They are inexpensive in comparison to the damage a gudgeon pin will do to your cylinder.

 

Got it, just wanted to be sure.

 

Xj400 - in-line 4 cyl
Xs400 - twin

 

Hi Guys,

Sorry to butt in on the thread but......

I've come across a Xj400 - in-line 4 cyl 1981 which has been dry stored for 30 years, looks to be in good shape, complete but will obv need dismantling and servicing....

Am wondering of the scarcity and value of something like this?

It is in very good shape...

Thanks in advance..

J

 

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Well, phooey.

 

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