Upgrade Your 1985 Enfield Bullet 350 with a Self-Starter: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you looking to enhance the convenience of your faithful 1985 Enfield Bullet 350 with a self-starter? While getting it installed might be a bit more challenging than with modern bikes, a well-executed upgrade can offer significant benefits. This guide will walk you through the key considerations and steps needed to fit a self-starter to your classic Enfield.
Understanding Compatibility
The first step in installing a self-starter on your Enfield Bullet 350 is to ensure that the self-starter kit is compatible with your bike. Some aftermarket kits are specifically designed for retrofits, but not all are. Always check the manufacturer's specifications and recommendations for your exact model year. Special attention should be paid to the mounting points and electrical systems to ensure a proper fit and function.
Electrical System Upgrades
One of the critical aspects of the modern self-starter installation is the electrical system. The original electrical system of the 1985 Enfield Bullet 350 may not be able to handle the increased load of a starter motor. Upgrading the battery and wiring harness is essential to ensure reliable operation. A modern deep cycle battery and a reinforced wiring harness designed for higher current demands will serve you well.
Mounting and Mechanical Adjustments
Proper mounting is crucial for the self-starter to operate smoothly. You will need to find a suitable location to mount the starter motor on your motorcycle. This may require custom brackets or modifications to the engine casing. The starter gear must engage properly with the engine to function effectively. This might involve modifying or replacing existing components to achieve a precise fit.
Professional versus DIY Installation
If you're not experienced with mechanical modifications, it's highly advisable to consult a professional mechanic or a specialist in motorcycle modifications. They can ensure that the installation is done correctly, minimizing the risk of damage or malfunctions. Contractor work is particularly important for ensuring that the electrical connections are safe and reliable.
Legal and Warranty Considerations
Before making any changes to your Enfield, check local laws and regulations regarding modifications. Additionally, consider how this change might affect any warranties or insurance coverage. Some original equipment warranties may be voided by certain modifications, so it's essential to understand the implications.
Should You Skip the Self-Starter? Some enthusiasts argue that keeping the bike simple and original is better. Tuning aspects like timing, spark plug gap, and carburetor settings can greatly enhance the kick start experience, ensuring a smooth and reliable operation. Proper tuning can offset the inconvenience of a kick starter and ensure that the bike runs as efficiently as possible.
While the self-starter might seem like an easy way to enhance convenience, the simpler a Bullet is kept, the better it typically performs. Sprag clutch issues, starter motor problems, battery issues, and wiring issues can become significant headaches. If these elements are interfering with your riding experience, a self-starter might be a worthy upgrade.
The self-starter installation process involves some physical challenges, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can make the upgrade. Lay the engine on the floor, then lift the frame over it to access the starter area. Proper alignment and mounting will require being meticulous, but the result will be a bike that is easier to start in various weather conditions.