Topic: Any suggestions on starting a sitting engine

[arncruz]

I just picked up my new project motorcycle - a 1978 CB550K.  I bought it for relatively cheap and all the PO said it needed was a new battery, exhaust, and gas.  I took off the spark plugs and shot some engine oil into the cylinders, gas, and a used battery.  I cranked it about 20 times and the engine started.  After 1 year of sitting in a storage shed, the darn thing was alive.  Unfortunately the engine only lasted about 10 seconds.  I was wondering if anyone had any other suggestions on making this puppy hum.  The bike has only 24,000 miles.

Thanks

[flybox1]

Start with the 3000 mi maintenance items.
Since it started, and ran, this might be all you need.....

[arncruz]

Will do.  You're the second member to suggest this.  Thanks

[SOHC Digger]

Make sure you are using NEW gasoline, including draining the old stuff out of the carbs. I have been bitten too many times by what turned out to be stale fuel.

[arncruz]

Digger, do you have to remove the carbs to take the old gasoline out?

[calj737]

Use the drain screw at the bottom of the carb bowl and pour off all the gas in there. Then, drop the bowl and inspect it for spoiled fuel. Probably should do a full and proper clean of the carbs (removal necessary) to insure reliable running.

[flybox1]

Start with the 3000 mi maintenance items.
Since it started, and ran, this might be all you need.....

[BryanR]

Started my own '73 CB750 after sitting for 6 years (damn kids!). Fired right up, even with the 6 year old fuel in it!

Following weekend, changed the fuel, plugs, oil. She's a champ


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