Author Topic: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F  (Read 2450 times)

0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic.

Offline BRose70

  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 9
Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« on: July 26, 2015, 07:32:11 AM »
In case you guys missed my newbie intro, my name is Brandon. I am 24 years old and about to start my last semester of mechanical engineering at Arkansas State University. My dad owned an auto body/mechanic shop and ive been working on cars my entire life. I currently have a 1966 F-100 and a 1970 Dodge Challenger. However, this will be my first motorcycle so any input/feedback is appreciated. 

I recently acquired my grandfathers 1976 CB550F. The bike has been sitting for almost 30 years. Ive already started the tear down process and the bike has ended up being a little rougher than i originally anticipated. I have not really decided what direction i want to go with the bike. I want to modernize it a little bit, but i do not want to go overboard and lose the look of a classic motorcycle. The bike is currently about 90% tore down and i am about to start on rebuilding the engine. The first 2 photos are from when i got the bike, the rest are photos of the tear down process.

Offline zekd

  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 69
  • the "b" team
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #1 on: July 27, 2015, 10:29:05 AM »
sweet ride! can't wait to see the progress.

Offline kap384@telus.net

  • Hot Shot
  • ***
  • Posts: 552
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #2 on: July 27, 2015, 10:38:31 AM »
Subscribed
1965 Honda CB450K0
1972 Honda CT70K1
1975 Honda MR50
1975 Honda CB400F Supersport
1977 Honda CB750F2 Supersport
1978 Honda XL100
1979 Honda CBX Supersport
1982 Honda VF750S Sabre - Adventure Bike modified
1983 Honda CX650T
1995 Honda VFR750
2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin
2015 KTM 200 XC-W
1963 Suzuki T10
My 1977 CB750F restoration - http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=66779.0
My 1975 CB400F restoration -
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=145196.msg1651779#msg1651779
'More Stock Than Not' thread - http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=90807.500
My CT70 Resurrection - http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=145221.0
Best Motorcycle Tool Ever - https://www.engduro.com

Offline jaguar

  • Old Timer
  • ******
  • Posts: 2,763
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #3 on: July 27, 2015, 11:01:38 AM »
Why would step one be to take the whole thing apart?

Offline BRose70

  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 9
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #4 on: July 27, 2015, 01:30:44 PM »
Why would step one be to take the whole thing apart?

Been sitting 30ish years. Engine siezed, wiring is a mess, brake is locked somewhere, tank needs work. Figured that i might as well tear the whole thing down and inspect everything piece by piece.

Offline BRose70

  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 9
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #5 on: July 27, 2015, 09:28:14 PM »
Not sure why only 1 of the 5 original photos loaded.   But this is the current condition of the bike. Have had the jugs filled with ATF for about a week now. Going to try to free the pistons tomorrow

Offline mrbreeze

  • Not your average
  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 5,902
  • Shut up when you're talkin' to me!!
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #6 on: July 27, 2015, 11:25:58 PM »
You jumped the gun by taking it all apart......but that's OK. You can still get the engine unstuck but its easier with the engine in the frame and using the rear wheel (gently) to turn it over. I don't know about anyone else but I'd like to see a pic. of the Challenger.......One of my favorite muscle cars. My first was a 69 Chevelle SS396 that I still sometimes wanna kick my own a$$ for getting rid of!!
MEMBER # 257
Fool me once..shame on you. Fool me twice..I'm kickin' your a$$......

Offline jaguar

  • Old Timer
  • ******
  • Posts: 2,763
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #7 on: July 28, 2015, 03:37:05 AM »
Yup, there is no reason to take the bike apart first.
Really makes things much harder to do right.

Online calj737

  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 21,029
  • I refuse...
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #8 on: July 28, 2015, 05:32:34 AM »
I tend to be on the same side of tear it all down, make it better than new, and then assemble as I go. Depends really how involved you planned to get and the condition of the motorcycle really.

You can unstick an engine, but, wouldn't you really rather disassemble it, inspect everything, replace what should be, and then put it back together? Since it was his G-dad's bike, I believe he will keep it a long while. So time and money invested into this way is somewhat moot. Make it perfect, Brandon! Make your family proud, and keep that bike for as long as you can so your offspring can enjoy it.

When you attempt to rotate the crank, do NOT use the bolt under the points cover! It will shear off. Use the bolt under the stator cover instead. And if ATF doesn't free it up, pour some kerosene into the cylinders and light them afire. (Outside only  :D ) and let the heat cook the rust from the rings. Been there, done that. Expect to bore the cylinders and new pistons/rings as a result of the rust.

Ask me how I know-
'74 550 Build http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=126401.0
'73 500 Build http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=132935.0

"Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of it's victim may be the most oppressive. It may be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron's cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated, but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience." - C.S. Lewis

Offline kslrr

  • There is always a Blaster when there is a
  • Master
  • *****
  • Posts: 1,542
  • Raising her up right!
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #9 on: July 28, 2015, 06:39:37 AM »
Subscribed
Now  1972 CB350FX (experimental v2.0)
        1981 CB650c Custom with '79 engine (wifes)
        1981 CB650 engine
        2004 HD XL883C Custom
        1977 Yamaha XS750D (in progress)
Then 1972 CL175
        1964 Yamaha YGS-1T
No ride is a Bad ride

Online Stev-o

  • Ain't no
  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 34,308
  • Central Texas
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #10 on: July 28, 2015, 06:47:39 AM »
Good story, welcome from Texas. I too would have tried to "unstuck" the motor while it was mounted in the frame, I am in that boat right now.

+1 Pic of the Challenger!  [I had a '73 Cuda]
'74 "Big Bang" Honda 750K [836].....'76 Honda 550F.....K3 Park Racer!......and a Bomber!............plus plus plus.........

Offline BRose70

  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 9
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #11 on: July 28, 2015, 06:56:52 AM »
Here are a few pics of the Challenger build. Was a 5 year build. Worked on it whenever i had spare money to buy parts. This is the vehicle my dad used to teach me how to work on cars. He would do one side of the car while i watched, then he would have me do the other side. Also attached a picture of the old f-100

Once i got the engine out, i realized that it would have been much easier to free with it in the frame. I was actually considering bolting it back in to try to free the engine. I have not removed the swing arm yet, so bolting the engine and rear wheel back up wouldn't be too grueling of a task.

Online Stev-o

  • Ain't no
  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 34,308
  • Central Texas
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #12 on: July 28, 2015, 07:03:44 AM »
Very cool, nice job!   The 550 will be a piece of cake compared to that.
Looks like a big block, what motor is in the Challenger?
'74 "Big Bang" Honda 750K [836].....'76 Honda 550F.....K3 Park Racer!......and a Bomber!............plus plus plus.........

Offline BRose70

  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 9
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #13 on: July 28, 2015, 07:40:11 AM »
Very cool, nice job!   The 550 will be a piece of cake compared to that.
Looks like a big block, what motor is in the Challenger?

440 bored .030 over, Holley Street Dominator intake, 870cfm Holley carb, 2.5" headers, Mopar Performance .484"/.484" camshaft, stock "452" cast heads with Edelbrock valve springs, Mopar Performance valve covers and air filter, MSD 6AL Digital Ignition, BeCool aluminum radiator, external transmission cooler, 2200rpm stall TCI torque converter, 3.23 gears, 1 1/8" front sway bar, 7/8" rear sway bar, 1.03" torsion bars, front and rear torque boxes, and soon to be getting an Auburn Pro-Series limited slip differential and an electric fan set up.

Offline Restoration Fan

  • My wife will never call me
  • Master
  • *****
  • Posts: 1,966
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #14 on: July 28, 2015, 07:41:46 AM »
Subscribed.

VERY nice job on both vehicles.  And I agree with Stev-o that the 550 will be a piece of cake in comparison.

But I'm also in Cal's boat regarding the build....if it were my grandfather's bike, no way would I have just unstuck the engine and tried to ride it.  In my opinion, it was a good choice to go ahead and tear it down so you can find out what needs/needed to be fixed and/or replaced.

Do it right the first time and it saves you having to go back and do it again. 

Good luck.

Ron
Ron

Stella - Logan's Senior Project    78 750K http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=141761.0

Logan's Reward - CB500 and CB550 Cafes    http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,147787.0.html

Offline mrbreeze

  • Not your average
  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 5,902
  • Shut up when you're talkin' to me!!
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #15 on: July 28, 2015, 11:44:25 AM »
An SOHC and a super sweet Mopar............. what else does a guy really need?
MEMBER # 257
Fool me once..shame on you. Fool me twice..I'm kickin' your a$$......

Offline BRose70

  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 9
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #16 on: July 28, 2015, 01:39:08 PM »
Before I do something I'll regret, is it possible this engine is stuck to the point that I could shear this bolt off?

Offline Restoration Fan

  • My wife will never call me
  • Master
  • *****
  • Posts: 1,966
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #17 on: July 28, 2015, 02:40:30 PM »
Turn the bolt to the right with a breaker bar.  You'll be fine unless you're jumping up and down on it.
Ron

Stella - Logan's Senior Project    78 750K http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=141761.0

Logan's Reward - CB500 and CB550 Cafes    http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,147787.0.html

Online Stev-o

  • Ain't no
  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 34,308
  • Central Texas
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #18 on: July 28, 2015, 03:28:26 PM »
An SOHC and a super sweet Mopar............. what else does a guy really need?


Kawasaki Z1 900 wouldn't be a bad thing to add, Fred!
'74 "Big Bang" Honda 750K [836].....'76 Honda 550F.....K3 Park Racer!......and a Bomber!............plus plus plus.........

Offline mrbreeze

  • Not your average
  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 5,902
  • Shut up when you're talkin' to me!!
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #19 on: July 28, 2015, 10:06:09 PM »
An SOHC and a super sweet Mopar............. what else does a guy really need?.......cept 1 or 3 large breasted goddesses always at my service and.......OH YEAH!!....a Kawasaki Z1 900..............


Kawasaki Z1 900 wouldn't be a bad thing to add, Fred!
Fixed it......
MEMBER # 257
Fool me once..shame on you. Fool me twice..I'm kickin' your a$$......

Online Stev-o

  • Ain't no
  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 34,308
  • Central Texas
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #20 on: July 29, 2015, 03:02:46 PM »
An SOHC and a super sweet Mopar............. what else does a guy really need?.......cept 1 or 3 large breasted goddesses always at my service and.......OH YEAH!!....a Kawasaki Z1 900..............


Kawasaki Z1 900 wouldn't be a bad thing to add, Fred!
Fixed it......

Now you're talkin!
'74 "Big Bang" Honda 750K [836].....'76 Honda 550F.....K3 Park Racer!......and a Bomber!............plus plus plus.........

Offline BRose70

  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 9
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #21 on: July 31, 2015, 10:17:54 PM »
Quick update: i have gotten all of the valves freed from the head, still have not gotten the pistons freed. I had a budget in mind when i started this project and i have realized now that said budget is going to be exceeded. (you'd think after restoring 2 classic vehicles that i would have realized you almost always go over the original estimated budget) i have made some minor progress. All of the original plastic connectors were chalky and broke just trying to get them separated. Got some new connectors on ebay and have installed new plastic connectors in the wiring harness. Currently getting the master cylinder broken down for rebuild (seals were dry rotted). 3 weeks from now i will be starting my last semester of engineering school. I will be working a lot less so progress will most likely slow down significantly.  Will keep you guys updated as i make progress.

A few side notes (feel free to give your opinion on my ideas)
-For the brake system, as of now, im thinking of having the rotor turned, rebuilding the caliper (if needed), and the only upgrade will be stainless brake lines
-I am going to run individual air filters, so im going to fabricate a catch can
-Planning on making a custom plate to fit under the seat to hide the wiring

I am also looking for a decent set of carbs, and a decent 550F tank

Online calj737

  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 21,029
  • I refuse...
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #22 on: August 01, 2015, 03:23:58 AM »
Thinning and slotting or drilling the front rotor is pretty common. Definitely replace the piston seal on the caliper, and possibly the piston itself if it's pitted.
'74 550 Build http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=126401.0
'73 500 Build http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=132935.0

"Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of it's victim may be the most oppressive. It may be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron's cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated, but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience." - C.S. Lewis

Offline BRose70

  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 9
Re: Completely rebuilding my grandfathers 76 CB550F
« Reply #23 on: October 11, 2015, 04:33:17 PM »
Hey guys, been a while since ive been on here. Once school started back up the progress on the bike almost came to a standstill.  Havent gotten much accomplished recently other than trying out a few color combos.  Mocked up a few color schemes just by using cheap spray paint. Two of my good friends own the local powder coating company so once i decide on a color combo, a lot of stuff will get blasted and powder coated.

Still in the market for a solid tank if anyone has a spare for sale.