Right Side Crankcase Removal

December 15, 2009

In order to change the oil completely on the CB 360t, it is necessary to remove the right side crankcase cover, as the engine has no oil filter that is removable from its outside.

I started the process on Sunday afternoon by emptying the crankcase of the oil. I also had to remove the kickstarter, right side exhaust and foot peg to gain access to the case and aid in its removal.

I also began to loosen the 12 or so Phillips Head screws that hold the case on the lower unit. With some WD40 and some persuation, 7 out of 12 loosened without major stripping of the screws.

I took Monday off to allow the WD40 to do some more work on the remaining screws. I also needed to bring some larger phillips head drivers from the school.

One of the minor problems is gaining the leverage necessary to loosen the screws without knocking over the bike on its center stand and getting enough pressure so the screws do not strip.
My solution was to use a battery powered drill with a Dewalt extension and larger bits. I had success with all but two of the remaining screws. I first tried a forcing a square drive bit in with no success.

The final solution before resorting to a screw extractor was the Dremmel tool and cutting wheel. I cut a groove in each offending screw and used the drill and flat head bit to remove them. The last, of course, lowest screw, finally came out after cutting two slots into it.

I had to then tap the case with a rubber mallet and partially remove the rear brake foot lever to totally remove the case. Of course I forgot that is was partially full of oil and I did not have a pan under it.

As expected, the gasket was damaged and there was considerable sludge in the bottom of the case.

I removed the snap ring on the centrifugal filter can called it a night.

I am hoping and am confident that I can replace the screws with Allen Heads.