RD400 - converting 76 points motor to 77 electronic?

[BRG1200]

I have a bitsa RD400, 76 points motor in a presumably largely 77 roller.
No hurry as I’m skint, married with kids and changing career.
Does anyone know what’s involved in converting the motor to electronic?
Is it easier to get a bolt on aftermarket kit or find components from a 77 motor?

[Ozhammer]

CDI didn’t come in until the 78 E model onwards and the cranks are different on those models. You would be better off going down the aftermarket route in my opinion, as it is much less work.

[BRG1200]

Thanks, useful info. So I was mistaken in thinking the 77 frame would have had an electronic ignition, and the 76motor is probably a perfect match for the 77 bike.

[Ozhammer]

Yeah the 76 and 77 models have a lot more interchangeability than they do with the 78-on models (engine and frame are two major differences for example) but there are some selected parts that do span the early/later models.

I hear that people have good results with the Newtronics electronic ignition as an upgrade on C/D models but you can go as far as programmable ignitions such as Zeeltronic if you really want to. Depends on whether you are looking for more reliability or more performance.

HTH

[BRG1200]

I’m retraining for a new career direction, and married with kids and other matters to deal with, so all my projects are really slow burn, but I like to gather my info so I’m able to move when I can. An old RD400 done up in a vaguely cafe style is all I’m aiming for, so reliability and cost effectiveness are the drivers.
I’ll look up Newtronics!