Honda CB900 Custom - Oil change and full service

In this video, I am doing a comprehensive service to my 1980 Honda CB900 Custom. Services covered in this video include:
- Oil and filter change
- Servicing the transfer case (oil change)
- Servicing the rear end (oil change)
- Inspecting the tires/valve stems/brakes
- Checking the brake fluid levels
- Checking the lights/horn
- Checking the charging system
- Checking the air filter
- Suspension inspection and setup
- Control setup (brake and clutch lever setup, throttle play)
Let's get to work!

[@gavinbreyden4673]

I just got a 1980 honda cb900c for 50 dollars! Guy told me it was a piece of crap and i took it home right away and got it running within an hour, everything is original and perfect condition except for a little surface rust but your videos have been amazing although it runs im changing everything

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Right on, Gavin! It sounds like you got a great deal on your CB900C!

[@jamesmorriseau4239]

Thank you for that video I've owned my 1980 CB900 custom since 85 and never did a full service I'm ashamed but I will now

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

You're welcome James!

[@joeferreira1812]

I really enjoy your videos!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thanks Joe, I'm glad you do!

[@ScoutSarge]

Thanks for the thorough walkthrough! Perfect timing! I got myself one of these (an '81) the end of last summer and I am just getting it out to prep for the riding season!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

You're welcome!

[@davidanderson4500]

great vid jon. keep em coming

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thanks David!

[@dennispfeifer7788]

Excellent! I bought a 1980 cb900 in 1981...still riding it today 41 years later...but need to change that gear oil, never done it yet. I'll get some Lucas 80-90 wt. gear oil today...and do it this coming week...your paint and side covers are perfect...mine are good, but not like yours...I just had to change out my neutreal safety switch...it took me two weeks to do without forcing it and breaking anything...Now, I know all the tricks...I should have done a video like you, how to do it...

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thanks Dennis! That is truly long term ownership. I never had to do the neutral switch but will look up a how to video if I need to.

[@dennispfeifer7788]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 Jon, I'm better with rifles, this electrical stuff is hitting me at my weakest link...I have a friend who taught electrical electronics at a college, I think I'm going to take it to him and let him solve the problem...I always help him out with mechanical stuff, which I'm very good at...It's a trade off...

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@dennispfeifer7788 Right on. Sounds like a good idea. The electrical side doesn't come easy to me either.🙂

[@SanjeevKumar-uz3kd]

You are great teacher ❤

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@SanjeevKumar-uz3kd Thanks, Sanjeev!

[@webchez69]

I owned that bike from new. Brought back a lot of memories. It was amazing how smooth that bike was. What I did not like was that the performance of the rear shaft drive. When you accelerated hard, the rear of the bike would pick up, instead of the front rising..

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

My chain-drive bikes do rise in the front more, which opens up my line on corner exists. I actually prefer the shaft-drive in that case since it maintains a tighter line when accelerating. Personal preference. Cheers!

[@cjc_0167]

Great video Jon, Thx!. Yeah, the vintage bikes require a thorough going thru no matter the condition when bought.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thanks!

[@cjc_0167]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 Jon...I only have 1 bike and it's a lot of work (fun though). I don't know how you keep up w/ multiple bikes. 🏍🙂🏍

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@cjc_0167 I wish I could send you a picture right now... Front end is completely off my XJ1100J, parts everywhere, rebuilding the forks and the brakes, bikes crowded all around ... You get the idea. It can drive you batty if you let it.

[@charlesmanickam2055]

Excellent tutorial Jon. I have the same bike (1982). Please upload a video how to clean the carbonator and what are the charging components? Love to learn more. Great easy understandable teaching.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thanks Charles! The CB900C carbs are notoriously complex and I hope I don't need to clean more any time soon. However, I recently posted a video on cleaning the carbs in my CB750K which are almost identical: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rWK6mad8h82sebc There are entire process of cleaning these particular carbs can't be fully explained/demonstrated in a single video - it could easily justify it's own series.

[@charlesmanickam2055]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 Thanks Jon, I just ordered the charging coil, rectifier and filters from eBay .It's going to be nice little first time project for me. Thanks

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@charlesmanickam2055 Awesome Charles! Check out the playlist on my CB750K. I cover carburation and electrical systems in those videos. Most parts are identical to the CB900C.

[@drgiggles50]

great video dont forget to grease the driveshaft joint there is a grease nipple for this purpose

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Thanks! Good catch on the joint. 🙂

[@BatuuBounder]

How much grease should be added?

[@29madmangaud29]

Hey Jon, I remember when those "NEW HALOGENS" came out! > WOW: So BRIGHT! Compare them to now-a-days,, LED's,,,,,, I replaced my halo..in my XS11, with a LED........ DAY and NIGHT! Way "Safer",,, people DEFINITLY see you

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Great advice. Good lights are a definite safety feature!

[@StevenZerwas]

I just picked up an ‘83 CB1000 custom. Very happy with the bike. Thank you for taking the time to put this video together! Where do you find your parts like the oil filter and air filter? Thanks.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Honda should have those. I also like HiFlo brand oil and air filters. You can see what they have for your bike at: www.hiflo.com Those should be available through the dealership as well as on ebay and Amazon.

[@Jokerjake220]

Super awesome video! I have the exact same 1980 bike that I picked up from an owner that layed it down and left it dead outside for about 6 years. I finally brought it back to life and am trying to get it back to respectable condition. I am having some trouble with my high speed gears dragging the engine down and not functioning well at all so I am forced to only use the low 5. Any thoughts on what could be the issue or maintenance that should be done to prevent wear on them?

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I would make sure to change the gear oil in the transfer case. I may have this service covered in the CB900C playlist on the channel.

[@29madmangaud29]

Very good, I always do this with every bike, and auto that I own, when I get them (I don't buy NEW ONES). Replacing all spark plugs, filters, etc. etc. and I "ALWAYS" Document whatever I do, this way I "KNOW" > everything is DONE, and it's done RIGHT! If something isn't then there's only ONE person that I can be upset with! AHAHHAHAH

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

How right you are. Once you buy a vehicle maintenance is your responsibility (not the previous owner's).🙂

[@pabloarley7062]

Great video, brother! I've just bought a Cb900 custom 1981, and I wanted to ask! Where do you buy all the things? Is it possible to do it through Amazon? Im from Costa Rica!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I bought most parts from Niche Cycles through Ebay. You may be able to find parts on Amazon. Sourcing parts is a big part of owning a vintage motorcycle. Good luck with your CB900C!

[@lovingjesus5184]

I purchased the bike several months ago and as I was changing the oil and I realized that the oil filters spring washer is missing. Is this washer that necessary? I didn't have any leaks prior to removing the filter.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

This is common. I replace them since they keep the spring from pushing into the filter. Cheers!

[@haydenlessor8942]

Could you please do a video on cam chain tension? Mines pretty rattley

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/j6bEiZ-lmduDpJI

[@suarez0187]

Hello Every body! Sorry for my bad language, i'm french. I just buy an cb 900 custom 82 and it's pretty rare to found here because it was foar north america market. i try to found a service manuel or workshop manual for the 900cb CUSTOM. If some one know if somethinks exist, please let me know. Thanks for your video ;) very helpfull

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Hi Samuel! Here is my CB900C playlist with all of my CB900C videos: kzbin.info/aero/PL0gjN9hf6pSq91QZhddq57LhkoQM_9c6t&si=6pdzr3-tVRv8arB9 I will let you know if I find a good source for the service manual. Cheers!

[@suarez0187]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 thanks, i already watch all youre video about 900 custom, abd some other🤗 Like it, pretty good video. I finally found manual shp on line. I will print what i really need. But, if you can have information about what part is fitting with other bike. I know for shat and engine, but frame. For part like luggage rack or sissy bar, could be a good alternative for find some think. It’s look like not a lot of .. i don’t how to say.. cosmétique parts, or the rear of the bike seat are fitting with other. But if you know some think, please let me know, or better, maje a video avout accessoiries😅

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@suarez0187 Will do. I think the only other model that might share some accessories is the CB750C. Cheers!

[@matthewmartens446]

Hey, thanks for the video. What would you recommend checking if the bike stalls a few seconds after idling? I give it choke and let it warm up. It will stall unless given constant throttle. Thanks!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Have you adjusted the idle speed?

[@matthewmartens446]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 I have not. Do you know where I can check that? Or where it is referred to in the manual?

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@matthewmartens446 It should be between the middle carbs. Idle speed adjustment should show up in the manual.

[@lend8947]

Are parts available for the older Hondas like the 900c you are servicing?

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I haven't run into one I couldn't get either through Honda or the aftermarket or used. But it sometimes takes patience and legwork.

[@ThrillaPark]

Thanks for the vid. Do you know what size crush washer is needed if it needs to be replaced?

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Hi Alex, I don't know exactly what size off the top of my head. I would just get one from the Honda shop.

[@nathanhusby2705]

Do you need that washer?

[@lovingjesus5184]

It might sound like a silly question but which cover do I take off to replace the shifter seal and do I have to drain the oil first your reply would be greatly appreciated 😊

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Great question! I honestly don't know. It's a job that I haven't done. I would recommend getting a repair manual for the bike before starting in on the job. It should have the information you need, and it will be a great reference moving forward. Best of luck with it!

[@lovingjesus5184]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 I have several manuals even the shop manual and none of them address this🤷

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@lovingjesus5184 Oh man, I'm sorry to hear that! I wish I had a good direction to point you in, but I'm at a loss as well 😕.

[@bringbacknames]

Jon, you had mentioned removing forward controls from one of your CB900s. Are you interested in selling them? My wife has decided that ours is too tall for her, and I need more leg room if I'm going to ride it.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I removed the forward controls - they are custom fabricated. I am currently using the 4 longer engine mount bolts and spacers that go with the controls since I didn't get the original bolts with the bike. I am open to suggestions here. I would need the stock bolts in order to ship the complete package with the longer bolts and spacers.

[@bringbacknames]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 I see. Thanks, anyway. I may end up selling this one. I need to thin the heard, lol.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@bringbacknames Me too (need to thin the herd that is). It's a pain to jockey everything around when I work on the bikes.

[@victorcruz-barreto4492]

Oopps i just did it, and forgot to put the filter metal washer . It doesn't leak. Is it ok if i leave it like that until the next oil change??

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

It should probably be fine, but it's your call.

[@victorcruz-barreto4492]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 I'll leave it like that, it's only a thin washer between the rubber part of the filter and the spring that only has a little pressure. It should ne fine.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@victorcruz-barreto4492 Right on.

[@zambimaru]

What type of Grease do you use on the Oil Filter Housing?

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Great question! I just use a little high-temp lithium grease to hold the o-ring in it's groove.

[@zambimaru]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 Thanks. I'll definitely be using this video in the future.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

@@zambimaru Right on!

[@29madmangaud29]

I believe that I've checked , they don't make "rebuild kits' for those shocks.... what a shame! Back in the day, those CB9's were the SOFTEST/SMOOTHES riding bikes made...... all of the cycle mags had always said!

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

The CB900Cs that I own still ride great. However, I have had to replace many blown, non-rebuildable air shocks over the years. In fact, I replaced some XJ1100 shocks this week. 🙂

[@daynebounds7847]

What exhaust is on there?

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

There was a MAC exhaust on it when I got it.

[@joeferreira1812]

What happens if I subscribe to your channel? Do I get a bill in the mail? 😮 Seriously, I don't know.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

It's free, Joe. It will just let you know whenever I post a new video.

[@dennispfeifer7788]

Well, it worked after installing the new switch, but then it quite...so, I'm back to square one...and out of ideas...but, I can start it by depressing the clutch lever...so, that is what i'm doing for now....but, my damn headlight comes and goes...now, it's dead...and don't want to drive it like that...I may take the bike to and electrical shop...let them solve the problem.

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

I think the clutch lever is part of the starting circuit so it is normal to pull it in to start the bike. Check your connection on the back of the headlight. Light corrosion can cause it to stop working. Problem solving is part of vintage bike ownership. I know it can certainly be frustrating but it is also rewarding in a way new bikes aren't.

[@dennispfeifer7788]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 Ok...I think I'm going to let my buddy look at it...he's a high tech IT electronic expert guy...I'm at my wits end...I'm about done...He was a teacher at the electronics schools....

[@dennispfeifer7788]

@@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538 I'll teach him some shooting skills...I'm good at that since 1959....I'll do a trade off...

[@29madmangaud29]

blow out that air filter, and keep it for a "back - up".

[@jonsmotorcyclerescueandrev3538]

Great advice!