Topic: '76 cb550 four rebuild in San Diego

[ellie]

Howdy!

I'm about to start rebuilding my dad's 1976 cb550 four. I dismantled it in a week and it's currently piled in my brother's garage. The big question now is WHERE TO BEGIN??

I'm beyond new to this -- I've never changed the oil in my car. But I love a good challenge, I love to learn, and I'm incredibly stubborn. I'm already having a blast -- I never dreamed I'd get such satisfaction from loosening bolts!

I look forward to using this forum to keep me from pulling out my hair when I get stumped.

[goldarrow]

WHERE TO BEGIN??

I think it's too late to ask that.  But welcome and get comfortable as you'd be reading up lots and lots.  Get manual from the FAQ section. 

What's your plan?

Throw out some questions so you can get 5 posts count and you'll be able to upload some pics of the before and current. 

[78 k550]

Welcome,
where do you start.
Now that's it all torn down you start from the frame up.
If it was complete before you started and posted this. I would of said take your digital device and snap lots of pics or video. Then get you a black marker and some sandwich bags (zip lock tops) and mark the bag put respective parts in, then on shelf. That alone will save you many hours looking for the right nut or bolt.
What color is it?

Paul

[tool14]

welcome great place for info

[70CB750]

Yes, frame up.

What's the history?  Was it running, run when parked years ago... 

[ellie]

Welcome,
where do you start.
Now that's it all torn down you start from the frame up.
If it was complete before you started and posted this. I would of said take your digital device and snap lots of pics or video. Then get you a black marker and some sandwich bags (zip lock tops) and mark the bag put respective parts in, then on shelf. That alone will save you many hours looking for the right nut or bolt.
What color is it?

Paul

I snapped tons of pictures and everything's bagged and tagged.

The tank is electric blue. I dig it, but I've also been really digging greens, so I'm not sure if I'm going to repaint or leave it be.

Thanks!

[ellie]

Yes, frame up.

What's the history?  Was it running, run when parked years ago...

It hasn't been ridden since '92 and has been sitting under a tarp outside since, so there's a great deal of rust and grime. But as far as I know it was in good working order (uhh, 20+ years ago).

Frame it is! I'm researching different means of coating, namely epoxy primer vs. powder coating.

[ellie]

What's your plan?

To put it back together.

I have the manual. I don't have a concrete plan, other than chipping away and doing what I can as I can (time and money allowing). I have decided to start with the frame. I have an awful lot of cleaning to do. Aesthetically, I don't want to mess with it too much, but I am a fan of the cafe racer look. I'm thinking some lower handle bars and smaller tail light. Other than that, the road is long and winding. And I'm looking forward to it!

Thanks.

[WrenchMonkey]

Welcome Aboard!  Be sure to take lots of pictures and start a build thread.  This is a great place to find answers to any questions you may have and to bounce ideas off other members.  Just be sure to use the search feature to look for answers first!