Topic: New Member First Bike '74 cb750

[jbcb750]

Hello all.  I am new to this forum as well as working on bikes.  I inherited a project bike a 74 cb750.  The bike needs some work but I am excited about tacking the project.  The motor is not seized and had compression.  I am start there it will be my first engine rebuild.  I have the bike almost done to the frame and ready to remove the engine.  Should be a lot of fun.  This forum has been very helpful so far and I am sure more in the future as well.

[70CB750]

Welcome, jb!

[KiefRichards]

Welcome

What makes you sure the engine needs to be rebuilt?  Lots of time and money involved, I'd only do it if it is really needed.

If this is your first time working on a bike, start small and take your time. Too many people tear apart nice bikes and they never see the road again.

Nice bike, btw 

[jbcb750]

Many of the screws on the head cover are loose it looks like it has been opened up before.  I want to get it down to the frame and paint that and really clean everything up.  I figured that I would open the motor up and see what needs to be done.  Thought?

[KiefRichards]

My thinking is do the minimum to get it on the road safely (brakes, lights, tune up, fluids; lube/check all bearings/bushings; and other things I'm sure I overlooked).

Then ride it for a while and re-evaluate.

That's plenty to start with and you'll be less likely to burn out than if you try to do it all at once

[Johnie]

Keep in mind the valve cover can not come off without removing the motor. So it is unlikely someone was in the motor. They probably tried to get the cover off and found the frame prevents removal and stopped there. What are the miles on the bike. You may be opening up a good motor there, but again it is your bike so do what you feel. If you have unlimited cash go for it man. Listen to Richard and realize we have seen a number of people tear down a good engine and it never runs again. Honda built a fantastic motor. A good carb cleaning, tank cleaning, points, condensers, timing, valve adjustment and carb sync is all most of these engines need. Good luck with your project.

[dhall57]

If you remember this one simple rule you'll go far on this forum IF IT AIN'T BROKE DON'T FIX IT

[Stev-o]

Welcome. Good advice ^^^

[calj737]

If this is your first engine rebuild, especially a 750, then you really ought to purchase Hondaman's book. It is an absolute encyclopedia of not only pertinent factory information, but enhancements for improved reliability, performance, and correction of inherent weaknesses in the motor.

It will cover in great detail the Major Tune-ups, necessary tools, and proper order of all the little things you'll take for granted.

Runs about $100. Best money you will ever spend working on your bike. Ever. Don't lift a wrench without it.

[jbcb750]

All good advice thanks. I have a copy of hondamans book and have started reading it.  I also have the shop manual and a clymer manual. Almost down to the frame and ready to take to motor out. I will keep posting progress.

[jbcb750]

I have been working in getting the bike stripped down to the frame and the motor out. I was cleaning the cylinder gasket offnand found this... What should my next move be. Take it to a machine shop. Try to get it out myself and where do I start and how can I get it out if I do it my self.