Author Topic: Does 78 CB550 motor eats oil?  (Read 861 times)

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Offline DamnJohnny

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Does 78 CB550 motor eats oil?
« on: August 02, 2012, 08:22:14 PM »
My motor is sounding weird. I just got this bike about 3 weeks ago and I know it sorts of leak a few drops of oil every time after a ride (I'm thinking its the motor oil..) Tonight, I went for a ride and it's making a light noise from the engine (a sound I'm not familiar). Anyway, just wondering if the motor does burn oil, and if I need to refill it once so often. Or how often should I change its oil.

Thanks

Offline Fritz

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Re: Does 78 CB550 motor eats oil?
« Reply #1 on: August 02, 2012, 08:50:16 PM »
Hi,
 
 you'll find a ton of information in this manuals thread:
 http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=17788.0
 
 A few drops of oil is ok. The old rubber seals get old and start to leak. Replacements are available but it might be hard to identify the seal that is leaking. You might need to clean and degrease the whole engine (including the inside of the left engine cover) to be able to find the problem. If you plan to do so: Buy an impact driver or you'll strip the old cross-headed screws!
 
My motor is sounding weird. [...] Tonight, I went for a ride and it's making a light noise from the engine (a sound I'm not familiar).

That's a bit unspecific. What's the noise like and where do you think it's coming from? Is it changing with revs?

How long did the bike sit before you bought it?

Quote
I just got this bike about 3 weeks ago and I know it sorts of leak a few drops of oil every time after a ride (I'm thinking its the motor oil..)

Yes, it's most likely motor oil. The only "other oil" that sits in your bike is fork oil and break fluid.

Quote
Anyway, just wondering if the motor does burn oil, and if I need to refill it once so often. Or how often should I change its oil.

You engine should not burn much oil. Maybe a quart every 2000 miles. Back in the 70s, Honda recommended to change the oil every 1500 miles. Modern oils might last longer. But other forum members have more knowledge about oil ;)
I change it every 3000 miles.
 
Cheers
Carsten
1976 CB550F