1. Husqvarna Motorcycles Made In Sweden - About 1988 and older

1979 Husky 390 motor fit into a 1981-83 frame?

Discussion in 'Vintage/Left Kickers' started by frog, Apr 28, 2019.

  1. frog Husqvarna
    AA Class

    Location:
    MN
    Was wondering if this is possible? Also how was the 390CR motor performance, reliability, ect? Thanks Frog
  2. 87husky500xc Husqvarna
    Pro Class

    Location:
    Dayton NV
    Husqvarna Motorcycle:
    2020 tx300i and a few vintage bikes
    Other Motorcycles:
    77 honda xr-75..
    The 390 engine is fantastic. As far as it fitting, don’t quote me on it but I believe the 390 cases are longer from front to back if I remember correctly. Been years since I looked at the mine side by side with the newer cases but I did look at doing something similar at one point. I mean anything can be done just at a matter of cost, time and labor. I think the front motor mounts are different too.
  3. justintendo klotz super techniplate junkie

    Location:
    mercer, pa/northwest pa
    Husqvarna Motorcycle:
    84 250,86 400,87 430,88 250,95 360
    Other Motorcycles:
    99 kawasaki zrx 1100
    wouldnt be worth the effort when a 430 primary kick can be inserted easily. several upgrades were made to the next generation engines compared to the earlier ones..
    that said the 390 is excellent, i just really dont see the point.
  4. frog Husqvarna
    AA Class

    Location:
    MN
    I have the parts and don't like the look of the 1979 frame loop and seat.
  5. fran...k. Husqvarna
    AA Class

    Location:
    eastern ct
    Husqvarna Motorcycle:
    420ae 98wr125 2004wr250 others
    Other Motorcycles:
    electric freeride 1993 yam gts
    It will fit in the 81 silver frame with the squashed tube near the left footpeg. Not the white 83 frame. I have done it with a 360 which I think should be basically the same constraints.

    I never had a 390. Does it have a damped clutch like the 360? Depending on the mood that might be more desirable than primary kick.

    The white frame is safer for the ankles when the foot or leg is forced back by a trial obstacle. The shock is easier to hit but seems less hazerodus in my estimation.
  6. Crashaholic Husqvarna
    Pro Class

    Location:
    Antelope Valley, CA.
    Husqvarna Motorcycle:
    73 450WR 6spd motor in a 75 MK frame
    Good enough reason in my book.
  7. Bigbill Husqvarna
    Pro Class

    Husqvarna Motorcycle:
    '83 250wr
    Other Motorcycles:
    0 right now
  8. fran...k. Husqvarna
    AA Class

    Location:
    eastern ct
    Husqvarna Motorcycle:
    420ae 98wr125 2004wr250 others
    Other Motorcycles:
    electric freeride 1993 yam gts
    The frame tube is apparently squashed where I mentioned. minute 0:52 I guess it is relative to how bad you want it. Pretty much must use a pipe that goes with the frame.

    I saw a 420 auto engine in a similar looking white frame on ebay a long time ago. It sure did not fit in my 1983 xc500 frame hit in the rear low center if I recall. It would fit in the 88 te 500 frame with swing arm pivot diameter change and some case mod in lieu of frame squish.
  9. Michel Dufayard Husqvarna
    Pro Class

    Location:
    France
    I see a 80/82 grey frame and I want it painted in white
    justintendo and fran...k. like this.
  10. justintendo klotz super techniplate junkie

    Location:
    mercer, pa/northwest pa
    Husqvarna Motorcycle:
    84 250,86 400,87 430,88 250,95 360
    Other Motorcycles:
    99 kawasaki zrx 1100
    the frame area below the airbox shows this isnt an 83 frame..
    VoodooHusky likes this.