Topic: Hello from Phoenix, AZ

[meltshow]

Hello there!

I'm another new guy on the block. Just brought home a '77 CB550F; someone's aborted cafe project. She's kind of a mishmash of assorted parts and has a terrifying wiring harness. It's my first SOHC bike (my previous moto experience is all small bore Hondas) and I'm excited to learn as I go.

[Gene]

Looks to be mostly complete - Welcome.  You're gonna have fun with that.  Does it start? I see the PO did away with those pesky rear turn signals.  And, I see you got the front fender - did they throw in the original airbox as well?  Seriously, welcome - the more 550's the better I say.

[meltshow]

Yeah, how dare those driving behind know when I intend to turn! It does run...or did until I got into the wiring. I have the rear blinkers, original front fender, chunks of airbox filled with disintegrated filters, and brake light + housing. Rear fender is MIA. Among things, PO had swapped the ignition switch with a toggle switch.

What's the story with everyone using pod filters on these bikes? Should I make the effort to get the original airbox back in place?

[Gene]

IMO - and it is only my opinion . . . yes, you should get the stock air filters back on, the engine was designed to work best with those.  HOWEVER, that said, if the PO rejetted the carbs to accomodate the PODs, you will need to look into getting the right sized jets in there. 

Why do people use the pods?  Have you dealt with the original airboxes?  They're a PITA to get on and off - pods are easier, just little clamp-on filters.  I almost did it on my 360, glad now that the bike shop didn't have them in stock.

There will be people around much more knowldgable than I to welcome you and help. In the meantime, download your manual from this site - it will be indispensable.

[RAFster122s]

Welcome.  I used to live in Tucson and Sierra Vista, love AZ.
bike is a challenge with a PO abort project. ..

The airbox is preferred but pods can be used... but on a stock bike you really need go with stock airfilter & airbox. Heavy mods would need more airflow than the stock box can provide.

So, get it running and safe to figure out what needs addressed.

[meltshow]

Thanks for the warm welcome everyone! First steps are replacing the wiring harness with a spare on hand and cleaning all contacts + dielectric grease. Can't wait to get back on the road!

[70CB750]

Welcome!

[flybox1]

Welcome.
Looks like you have a CB500T seat