Topic: First motorcycle build!

[shawn57nomad]

Hello all!  I have been searching the posts and gathering information as the days go, so as to get it right the first time.  I am in Nebraska and parts and local help can be hard to find it seems for the 1976 CB550F in the garage.  It does not run, but turns over and needs a plethora of parts and a thorough cleaning as well as a title.  LOL, yup a title!  The bike was a gift to keep me busy from my girlfriend!  Great gift, but need to get it in running order ASAP!  I have a strong mechanical background and am learning about electrical as time passes, though I'll admit, mildly intimidating being on two wheels!  HAHAHA!  Glad to be here! 

[shawn57nomad]

a start

[Stev-o]

Welcome!  You've picked a good first bike, the 550F was also my first SOHC Honda [had other bikes before].

Ok, it's passed the first test, it turns over, so must have a decent battery. That is a requirement as the battery provides spark.

That is your next check: pull a plug, connect it back to the pug wire, lay it on the head and turn it over for 10 sec. Do you see spark?

[shawn57nomad]

hey Steve-o!  working on the carbs at the moment and thanks to harisuluv here I have a good set that is not corroded and deteriorated.  I do need to replace the missing ignition components soon. (i.e. coils, wires, caps)  I have set the valves to factory spec and will check the spark as soon as I get the parts.  This bike sat for more than a decade under a tarp with fuel in it and it was neglected.  We'll see how far I can get in the next 60 days or so.  Hope to have running by June, no later.  Sourced a good used tank, as the PO neglected it and the cream liner in it lifted from the tank.  Might salvage it but doubtful.  Thanks for the info also. 

[Stev-o]

Hey.  If you need coils, start a thread in the "parts wanted" area, coils rarely go bad and I'm sure someone has an extra set.  Wires will come with them as they are attached. Buy new plug caps, only about $3 ea.

Good luck.

[calj737]

You can soak that failed liner out of the tank with Acetone. Pour 2 gallons in, full strength. Let soak for a day or two. Drain and strain the acetone, repeat. Orient the tank end-to-end to reach all surfaces.

You'll be left with original metal, possibly some rust which is easy to remove with a vinegar soak. (Same method as above). Cheaper than the shipping on a used tank.

[shawn57nomad]

thanks calj77 I'll do that!  thank you Stev-o I'll post in the wanted section also.  This site is beyond fantastic and helpful!  Great group of people!!!!

[70CB750]

Welcome, Shawn.