Topic: New Member

[Jayden]

hey all,
 
let me start of by introducing myself.
My names Jayden, I'm 24 and i live in Australia, Victoria, Melbourne.
(How ya going Mate  )

I'm new to owning a motorcycle or even restoring one, so i guess ill be posting up quite a lot of threads hoping i can feed of your knowledge.
so here we go!

About a week i purchased my first bike, a 1978 CB550 K3. Looking over the serial numbers i guess my bike had a engine swap to a 1974 engine, not that i care much because i don't plan to restore to full original condition but would have been nice to own a bike with matching numbers. Ah well.

My first thought of conduct was to purchase a Chiltons motorcycle repair manual, even tho the books models all stops up to 76, and mine is a 78. I don't think they were that much different. Maybe some of the trimmings and such, but running gear was pretty much the same!! Could some one tell me more!

The bike starts and runs, but I can't ride it no where because the front brake locks up but its runs, and when i reave it a little, it starts smoking and back firing. I'm wondering if this could be because my carburetors haven't been clean for a great period of time!!

if anyone is or knows of a mechanic here in melbourne that can help me out, please leave me a comment!
i value your feed back.

Thanks

[Damage Inc]

G'day Jayden, welcome to the forum. Nice ride you've got there. I'm sure you'll get all the advice you need to get it running nicely.

[Jayden]

G'day Jayden, welcome to the forum. Nice ride you've got there. I'm sure you'll get all the advice you need to get it running nicely.

Thank you Damaged Inc. Very eager to get it RW and red plated.

[Jayden]

Welcome Jayden -

This link provides you with a tremendous amount of info and assistance for your bike:
http://manuals.sohc4.net/cb550/

You might also keep an eye on this link for understanding part numbers, assemblies, and source for stock Honda parts:
http://www.cmsnl.com/honda-cb550-four_model14345/

Since your bike is a mixture of 2 separate years and models (74/78) you'll need to pay some attention to that. The '78 frame and body components are very different in certain places than the '74. Same is true for some portions of the motor.

On the first link, there's a Service Manual. Download it for the '74 and follow the steps to perform the 3,000 Mile Service interval. This will take you through each system and have you perform a get-well service.

If you become familiar with the "Search" function on this forum, you'll find nearly every possible question you will ever ask, has been, and so has its answer. So while you toil away in the heat drinking cold beverages of your choice, read through numerous threads and enlighten yourself some.

But don't hesitate to ask questions; lots of folks around to help.

On your bike: it does sound as though the carbs need a thorough cleaning! You need to verify what model of carb you have exactly. You can find a stamped number on the right side of the carb, it's on the flange that connects to the rubber boot just before it connects to the motor. '74 motors often had 069, 022, maybe even 627 model carbs. But who knows what yours are.

Your front brake needs servicing. The brake fluid from the handlebar master cylinder all the way to the caliper (the piece that holds the pads) needs flushing, and the piston within the caliper needs servicing or replacing. The hydraulic pressure forces the piston out, and the returning fluid needs a place to go and draw the piston back via a seal in the caliper.

Two great tools you need: manuals and JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard) screw drivers. Those screws on your bike are not Phillips, they're a Japanese version and they are different. Get the proper driver and they come out quite easily. Else, you will buggger them up promptly.

Have at it, and go through each piece step by step. It's a lot easier than you think!

Thank you so much calj737 for your reply.

I just had a look at my carbs. There stamped 087. I'm guessing different seals kits and possibly components were made for different models!
I will have to have a good read with the heater on and a cold beverage. Its just not that type of season yet calj737.
 

[Tews19]

Cal gave you great advice and provided you with the manual link. Do not waste your money on a manual when it is here for free!

[Jayden]

Cals been great help.
Thanks guys, really appreciate this.