Help! Kickstarter Pawl operation explanation needed.

bulterier · Post by **bulterier** » Tue May 17, 2011 4:34 pm

I have been reading about the Honda 305 Kickstarter Pawl but still have some questions converning its operation.

The kickstarter pawl tucked inside the first gear on my bike had a very loose fit. Somewhat like a loose tooth. THis seems very strange to me since it seems as the first gear is turning at speed the centrificul force would allow the pawl to fall out. Can this happen? Also it would only engage the inner teeth every now and then turning freely most of the time.
I read where the working surface of the pin had to be rounded and not worn and it is.
So I stretched the spring about a quarter on an inch and it now allows the pawl to strike the inside of the gear, but this has created a constant ratcheting effect that I feel would be in motion whenever the motor has started and the gears are turning.
Should the pawl always ride the inside of the gear?

Should I try to purchase a new Pawl and Spring to install? ( mine do not seem to be worn)
and if so, from where?

Any help from you 305 Masters in clearifying this operation would be appreciated.

305nutt · Post by **305nutt** » Tue May 17, 2011 10:15 pm

I always install a new bushing, pawl and spring. Makes things work like new. nutt

davomoto · Post by **davomoto** » Wed May 18, 2011 9:05 am

Post a pic of your pawl, and we can see if it's worn. There is a stop in the left crancasee, a large bolt with a smooth end that disengfages the pawl. The right cover must be on, and the kicker spring wound to rotate the kick shaft against the stop. I think Fast Fred still has some pawls and springs, PM him.

Davo

bulterier · Post by **bulterier** » Wed May 18, 2011 11:11 am

That is great info DAVOMOTO

I understand how it works now, the large bolt protruding thru the side of the bottom case has a shoulder that keeps the ratchet part of the pawl from hiting the inside of the first gear thus, releasing the ratchet mechanism.

Anyways, These are not very good pictures ( I needs a better camera) but will post anyway of the spring, pin and pawl.

Thanx again.

davomoto · Post by **davomoto** » Wed May 18, 2011 11:22 am

Definately show some wear. Personally I like to replace them unless they are in really good shape, as replacement requires splitting the cases. That said, I have torn down engines where the kicker worked fine, and the pawl was twice as worn as yours.

Davo

e3steve · Post by **e3steve** » Fri May 27, 2011 2:00 pm

I'm in agreement with Davo; if you're already in the 'box, replace the entire ass'y (spring, pushrod & pawl). For what it costs it's not worth having to go in again later....