Author Topic: The 550's - A Test of Patience (Ignition Install + Tune-up)  (Read 12184 times)

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Offline cabrala

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In the year 1978, a black CB550 rolled off the line and into Archie's Cycles of New Bedford, MA. One decade later I rolled off the line, and a little over two decades after my arrival we met... ;D



Last year I picked up both of my CB 550's from a local guy who used one to complete the other (see my avatar). My intention was to modify the runner but it spoke to me and asked to remain stock. This season I turned my attention to the "parts" bike. I tracked down the original owner, filed for the title and and sold my dad on a "father/son project". After going through the boxes of parts I received, the once black bike turned red and I came to the conclusion that I had enough meat here to warrant the project.

As this thread moves forward, please keep in mind that this is my first project and I'll need all the help, insight and guidance you can muster. Now, on to the pictures!







Best,
Alex

« Last Edit: July 29, 2012, 09:50:45 pm by Crush »
-Alex

'75 CB750F
'77 CB550K
'78 CB550
'93 FZR600

Need a better, newer points cover gasket? How about rubber washers for the headlight bucket? Click the link below:
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=122308.0

Offline cabrala

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #1 on: June 10, 2012, 10:13:59 pm »
On the first day, we make sure the engine fires.

Dad: "Let's check for spark."
Me: "Ok, but where are the plug wires?".
Dad: "Um better yet, where is the ignition coil?"



With that said, I am on the hunt for some coils. Stev-o has already linked me to a used one on Ebay, but I will also be posting up in the "wanted" section. If anyone else has some leads, I am all ears and shallow pockets  :P.
-Alex

'75 CB750F
'77 CB550K
'78 CB550
'93 FZR600

Need a better, newer points cover gasket? How about rubber washers for the headlight bucket? Click the link below:
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=122308.0

Offline cabrala

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #2 on: June 14, 2012, 11:33:50 am »
Bit the bullet today and spent some cash on ignition components. Can't check for life if she won't ignite...right?

With no real luck finding reliable, used Honda coils I went to Z1 and purchased Dyna Dual Output 5-Ohm Coils (DYDC8-1). Also in my cart were lead wires; black Dyna 7mm Copper Core (DYDW200) capped off with two 102˚ NGK Resistors (TU38-1006 or OEM: XD05F) and two 120˚ NGK Resistors (TU38-1008 or OEM: VD05F). To spark this party, sparkplugs.com provided me with Denso Spark Plugs (X22ES-U). The above setup was at the recommendation of HM (Mark) when I spoke to him about using his ignition for this project.

This last week has been spent reading up on spark plugs, plug caps, lead wires, points + condensers, electronic ignitions and a whole Hell of a lot of member opinions. Nevertheless, it felt oddly good to spend some money today, even if it did take me 45 minutes to hit "Complete Purchase".  ;D

I noticed a few views  ;), so I'll keep posting for the lurkers...and for my own record.

-Alex
-Alex

'75 CB750F
'77 CB550K
'78 CB550
'93 FZR600

Need a better, newer points cover gasket? How about rubber washers for the headlight bucket? Click the link below:
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=122308.0

Offline LesterPiglet

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #3 on: June 14, 2012, 12:38:22 pm »
What size is that rear wheel?
We need a picture of your other bike now.
Good luck with your build.
'Then' and 'than' are completely different words and have completely different meanings. Same with 'of' and 'have'. Set and sit. There, their and they're. Draw and drawer. Could care less/couldn't care less. Bought/brought FFS.


Les Ross.            Certified by a Professional

Offline cabrala

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #4 on: June 14, 2012, 01:27:52 pm »
Not sure of the rear wheel Les, but I'll be sure to check it out over the weekend and report back. It's a bit stout in comparison to the other bike, but I am a fan...so long as it is right and safe.

Now for what my viewer requests! The "other" bike; my stock '77 and staying that way  ;) She's got a fresh oil leak I am trying to get under control, but other than that she purrs.
-Alex

'75 CB750F
'77 CB550K
'78 CB550
'93 FZR600

Need a better, newer points cover gasket? How about rubber washers for the headlight bucket? Click the link below:
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=122308.0

Offline Gurp

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #5 on: June 16, 2012, 11:17:44 pm »
What direction are you planning to go with this bike?
slow Progress 74 cb550.

Poor boy chop 73 CB500 chop

Future project 77 Cb750 Amen Savior

Offline sanglasmick

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #6 on: June 16, 2012, 11:56:22 pm »
Good luck with the build Cabrola.
Looks like you've got a good place to start a nice project.

Best of luck with it!
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=103837.0
1977 CB550F2, 1974 Sanglas 400E, 1981 XJ750A.

Offline cabrala

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #7 on: June 18, 2012, 10:18:40 am »
Dyna Coils, lead wires and resistor caps have arrived. Thank you Z1! Just waiting on the Denso plugs to trickle in so I can get the engine moving forward.

Next chance I have to work on the bike, I will be verifying the condition of my ignition (points, condensor, advancer). My plan is to keep those in working order but hop them up by coupling with a HondaMan system. Let's get her running first, and oh, let's get that f@#^ing title in my name already.

I bought both bikes a year ago. The owner at that time had the title for my '77 and couldn't find this bike's. Knowing that I had a good project on my hand, I tracked down the original owner and went through the duplicate title process. Just last week the paperwork went through and the title was delivered to the P.O. She decided to drop it off at a local dealership so that I could pick it up at my leisure. Dealership lost it.  >:( Back to square one!

-Alex

'75 CB750F
'77 CB550K
'78 CB550
'93 FZR600

Need a better, newer points cover gasket? How about rubber washers for the headlight bucket? Click the link below:
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=122308.0

Offline cabrala

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #8 on: June 18, 2012, 10:51:19 am »
What direction are you planning to go with this bike?

Gurp, I'm probably going to sound like a douche here, but bear with me...
"Cafe" is the simplest description, but I try to shy away from using the word because I find it to be misunderstood as a fashion statement instead of a cultural thing.

Let's talk about what I love...
I love the line of the stock tank. I love the stubby rear-end while she is seatless. I love the dual shocks. I love the idea of a more aggressive stance. I would love to Frankenstein this bike with modern elements to enhance performance all-around.

I am just trying to see where the bike wants to go. I prefer to work slow and constantly evaluate the direction.

And when it's done you can sit back and say what the f*^# was that kid talking about, it's a damn cafe.  ;D
-Alex

'75 CB750F
'77 CB550K
'78 CB550
'93 FZR600

Need a better, newer points cover gasket? How about rubber washers for the headlight bucket? Click the link below:
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=122308.0

Offline cabrala

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #9 on: June 18, 2012, 10:53:59 am »
Good luck with the build Cabrola.
Looks like you've got a good place to start a nice project.

Best of luck with it!

Mick, I appreciate the well wishes. Keep checking back and throwing some motivation my way with comments. I'm looking forward to really getting this thing off the ground.
-Alex

'75 CB750F
'77 CB550K
'78 CB550
'93 FZR600

Need a better, newer points cover gasket? How about rubber washers for the headlight bucket? Click the link below:
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=122308.0

Offline Gurp

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #10 on: June 18, 2012, 11:08:26 am »
Maybe a little douchish. lol but i was wondering if you were going to kinda do a traditional cafe or go modern with your parts. ext swingarm inverted forks...ect that kinda thing. or just roll with it. loli should have been alittle more specific with my question too lol
slow Progress 74 cb550.

Poor boy chop 73 CB500 chop

Future project 77 Cb750 Amen Savior

Offline LesterPiglet

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #11 on: June 18, 2012, 11:08:37 am »
I still want know what size that wheel is.  :)
'Then' and 'than' are completely different words and have completely different meanings. Same with 'of' and 'have'. Set and sit. There, their and they're. Draw and drawer. Could care less/couldn't care less. Bought/brought FFS.


Les Ross.            Certified by a Professional

Offline cabrala

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #12 on: June 18, 2012, 11:37:43 am »
I still want know what size that wheel is.  :)

I haven't forgotten about you Les! The bike is at my dad's and while I was home for Father's Day, he wasn't letting me get close to it. I'll give him a ring tonight and force him into the garage to read the numbers for me (you)  :D
-Alex

'75 CB750F
'77 CB550K
'78 CB550
'93 FZR600

Need a better, newer points cover gasket? How about rubber washers for the headlight bucket? Click the link below:
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=122308.0

Offline LesterPiglet

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #13 on: June 18, 2012, 11:42:48 am »
Thanks. :)
'Then' and 'than' are completely different words and have completely different meanings. Same with 'of' and 'have'. Set and sit. There, their and they're. Draw and drawer. Could care less/couldn't care less. Bought/brought FFS.


Les Ross.            Certified by a Professional

Offline SF

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #14 on: June 18, 2012, 12:02:34 pm »
how about 1 stocker and 1 drag bike!?
92 wr250 sold
98 zx6r sold
04 zx10r
73 cb350 twin
75 cb550f
75 cb550f
72 r5c
rgid springer bobber project

Offline cabrala

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #15 on: June 18, 2012, 12:33:02 pm »
Gurp, I'm glad you can look past the #$%* in me.  ;D I'm also glad you're the first to ask me my direction because it forces me to verbalize some otherwise mysterious thought process.

I look at this as a two-part project. The first being purely functional. Get her mechanically sound and mocked up. In my mind, this will put her in the category of "traditional cafe". I'd like to just be able to ride without a care given to aesthetics, and with this being my first build I can't see confusing myself with the fitment of modern components on the first take.

The second part is my utopia and ideal goal. It is about performance upgrades where I need them (brakes, handling, engine) and where I can afford them. Add some paint and polish, too. I have one of the few old Hondas back home on the South Coast of MA (from what I know), so it would be a dream to have a jaw-dropper.
-Alex

'75 CB750F
'77 CB550K
'78 CB550
'93 FZR600

Need a better, newer points cover gasket? How about rubber washers for the headlight bucket? Click the link below:
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=122308.0

Offline cabrala

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #16 on: June 18, 2012, 12:36:20 pm »
how about 1 stocker and 1 drag bike!?

Never really thought about the option SF. I've always thought of the 550 as a peppy little rocket, but now I have visions of the 1/4 mile  8)
-Alex

'75 CB750F
'77 CB550K
'78 CB550
'93 FZR600

Need a better, newer points cover gasket? How about rubber washers for the headlight bucket? Click the link below:
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=122308.0

Offline Cafe_Brat

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #17 on: June 18, 2012, 04:56:57 pm »
I just decided to stick with the original tank for the purpose of keeping the budget down.   What are you going to do for a seat?
Convertibles are awesome... for people that don't know how to ride motorcycles

Offline cabrala

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #18 on: June 18, 2012, 07:03:59 pm »
I just decided to stick with the original tank for the purpose of keeping the budget down.   What are you going to do for a seat?

I am going to try my hand at making a seat. My girlfriend's father has an old Delta drill press belt cover that I think would look amazing as a rear cowl. In all honesty I haven't thought too much about it, but I can't afford to buy one and I am into the unique, DIY satisfaction.
-Alex

'75 CB750F
'77 CB550K
'78 CB550
'93 FZR600

Need a better, newer points cover gasket? How about rubber washers for the headlight bucket? Click the link below:
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=122308.0

Offline Gurp

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #19 on: June 19, 2012, 12:47:35 am »
LMAO cabrala..
I'm an easy going guy. lol
but i understand you i would like some modern thing but wont be able to make then happen as i work out of a 5 by 12 shed.. im doig my project in the same to steps but back words lol
I'm geting to look then going fix the performance.. I figure i i get it running tip top ill never finish it bc ill be rideing to much to work on it.  8)
Good luck on your build!
slow Progress 74 cb550.

Poor boy chop 73 CB500 chop

Future project 77 Cb750 Amen Savior

Offline SF

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #20 on: June 19, 2012, 05:09:31 am »
Gurp, I'm glad you can look past the #$%* in me.  ;D I'm also glad you're the first to ask me my direction because it forces me to verbalize some otherwise mysterious thought process.

I look at this as a two-part project. The first being purely functional. Get her mechanically sound and mocked up. In my mind, this will put her in the category of "traditional cafe". I'd like to just be able to ride without a care given to aesthetics, and with this being my first build I can't see confusing myself with the fitment of modern components on the first take.

The second part is my utopia and ideal goal. It is about performance upgrades where I need them (brakes, handling, engine) and where I can afford them. Add some paint and polish, too. I have one of the few old Hondas back home on the South Coast of MA (from what I know), so it would be a dream to have a jaw-dropper.

if your going the traditional rout than don't worry about spending money on changing parts to "up grade" use what ya got keep it period correct
« Last Edit: June 19, 2012, 05:14:36 am by SF »
92 wr250 sold
98 zx6r sold
04 zx10r
73 cb350 twin
75 cb550f
75 cb550f
72 r5c
rgid springer bobber project

Offline cabrala

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #21 on: June 19, 2012, 08:19:40 am »
Quote
if your going the traditional rout than don't worry about spending money on changing parts to "up grade" use what ya got keep it period correct

Ideally I'd like it to end up being a more modern interpretation, but until I have the funding (and skills) to get it there, it will be pretty period correct. Shoot, for all I know I could love the period-correctness and keep it that way...a little blast from the past sistered up with my stock '77.  :D
-Alex

'75 CB750F
'77 CB550K
'78 CB550
'93 FZR600

Need a better, newer points cover gasket? How about rubber washers for the headlight bucket? Click the link below:
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=122308.0

Offline cabrala

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #22 on: June 29, 2012, 10:51:06 pm »
Les, I haven't forgotten about you, or the size of my rear tire. I finally got to see the bike again and here are the details:

Continental Super Twin TK44
4.00 V 18

I have zero idea what that means, but I hope it helps you out. I am used to seeing tires in the 225/45/17 format...

All I can infer is that it is an 18" wheel. Any clarity will help me learn and attached is a picture.
-Alex

'75 CB750F
'77 CB550K
'78 CB550
'93 FZR600

Need a better, newer points cover gasket? How about rubber washers for the headlight bucket? Click the link below:
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=122308.0

Offline LesterPiglet

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #23 on: July 03, 2012, 02:30:01 am »
4" width. Thanks. I thought it looked bigger than that. Is the front the standard 19"?
'Then' and 'than' are completely different words and have completely different meanings. Same with 'of' and 'have'. Set and sit. There, their and they're. Draw and drawer. Could care less/couldn't care less. Bought/brought FFS.


Les Ross.            Certified by a Professional

Offline Messenger750

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Re: Patience is Key - A 550 Build
« Reply #24 on: July 03, 2012, 06:50:50 am »
I really enjoyed reading this thread. I started reading it from the beginning and was hoping by the time I got to the end it'd be finished! But alas, it's only begun. You're off to a good start. And remember in the the adverse times when it seems like your bike is going nowhere, remain patient and vigilant!