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Author Topic: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"  (Read 13258 times)

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Offline calj737

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #50 on: March 01, 2016, 03:59:06 AM »
Quote from: RAF122S on February 29, 2016, 10:44:27 PM
the rings have to be compressed to slide into the bores and two at a time...  Just be patient and compress them with a sleeve that can be parted and pulled away. Even a hose clamp can do it if you take the time to unscrew the worm drive all the way...just more fiddly.
supporting cylinders on both ends with a board to keep them from making it harder with weight from them pressing down on your work... before it is ready.
Shouldn't need any hammers unless a deadblow plastic as you don't want to force anything and cause more issues with broken ring or worse...
^^^ This works well, especially with an extra set of hands to help maneuver the block down as you focus on the pistons being aligned and inserted into the bores. Plenty of lube in the bores to aide in gliding the pistons up.
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'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 Jeffro93

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #51 on: March 20, 2016, 07:04:48 PM »
In case anyone thinks I gave up or died (though I doubt I've crossed anyone's mind).  I got the cylinder block on today and put the engine in the frame.

It seems to me that it's much easier to put the engine in the frame at this point than after it's fully assembled.  It was a breeze to install and NO SCRATCHES on the frame. Plus, I got to spend an afternoon in the garage with my dad - doesn't happen much any more.

I'm in the process of lapping the valves now.  Once I've got the head/cam cover installed, I'll focus on lacing the new rims (stock) to the vapor blasted hubs.






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1974 Honda CB550
1983 Honda GL650 Interstate "Cafe'd"
2007 Triumph Bonneville

Offline Bootsey

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #52 on: March 20, 2016, 07:20:04 PM »
That's one tidy looking bike in the making, nice work.
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Offline Stev-o

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #53 on: March 20, 2016, 10:25:23 PM »
Looks fantastic, Jeff.  Glad your not dead!
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'74 "Big Bang" Honda 750K [836].....'76 Honda 550F.....K3 Park Racer!......and a Bomber!............plus plus plus.........

Offline calj737

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #54 on: March 21, 2016, 03:47:08 AM »
By the way, before you put the valve cover on, torque the head, let it stand overnight, then release and re-torque the next day. That insures your gasket and studs (maybe you didn't replace the studs anyway) will be fully compressed and maintain their squish. Much easier to do then setting the valves 2x.
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'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 Jeffro93

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #55 on: March 21, 2016, 06:41:14 PM »
thanks for the heads up on that, Calj.
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1974 Honda CB550
1983 Honda GL650 Interstate "Cafe'd"
2007 Triumph Bonneville

Offline Jeffro93

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #56 on: April 11, 2016, 05:44:01 PM »
Hello, all:

Progress has been a little slow, but I've now got the head and cam cover on.  One problem - I either lost the washers and nuts from the later model cam cover or they weren't on it when I got it.  It's hard to believe that I could have lost them - I'm pretty solid at my bag and tag abilities, but it's equally hard to believe that they weren't on it.  Regardless, I need some new ones.  Does anyone know what size they are?  It should be easy enough to replace them. 

This question begs another question - is there a parts list for engine hardware sizes by part/location?  That would be a great resource.

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1974 Honda CB550
1983 Honda GL650 Interstate "Cafe'd"
2007 Triumph Bonneville

Offline Jeffro93

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #57 on: April 11, 2016, 05:51:01 PM »
Also, and quite possibly a bigger deal - I got the new fork tubes from CycleX on Friday and just had the time to open the box (was out of town all weekend).   I ordered the standard length.  When compared to the stock forks, they're not the same. These pics are with the top of the tubes lined up.  The difference in length doesn't bother me, but I'm concerned about the grove location being about 12mm further up on the new ones.  Opinions/suggestions are welcome and requested...


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1974 Honda CB550
1983 Honda GL650 Interstate "Cafe'd"
2007 Triumph Bonneville

Offline calj737

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #58 on: April 11, 2016, 06:00:01 PM »
Quote from: Jeffro93 on April 11, 2016, 05:44:01 PM
Does anyone know what size they are?  It should be easy enough to replace them. 

This question begs another question - is there a parts list for engine hardware sizes by part/location?  That would be a great resource.
Try this-
http://www.cmsnl.com/honda-cb550-four-cb550k3-1977-usa_model1015/partslist/E++01.html#results

Scroll down the list until you find the bolt/screw listed (often 6x40 meaning 6mm diameter and 40mm length). Pitch for 6mm is 1.0, 8 is 1.25. Some 10mm are fine pitch at 1.25, some at 1.0 (very fine). None are 1.5 so if you must replace a screw or nut, buy the pair together.
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'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 Jeffro93

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #59 on: April 11, 2016, 06:39:17 PM »
Thanks! That answered that question.

Quote from: calj737 on April 11, 2016, 06:00:01 PM
Quote from: Jeffro93 on April 11, 2016, 05:44:01 PM
Does anyone know what size they are?  It should be easy enough to replace them. 

This question begs another question - is there a parts list for engine hardware sizes by part/location?  That would be a great resource.
Try this-
http://www.cmsnl.com/honda-cb550-four-cb550k3-1977-usa_model1015/partslist/E++01.html#results

Scroll down the list until you find the bolt/screw listed (often 6x40 meaning 6mm diameter and 40mm length). Pitch for 6mm is 1.0, 8 is 1.25. Some 10mm are fine pitch at 1.25, some at 1.0 (very fine). None are 1.5 so if you must replace a screw or nut, buy the pair together.
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1974 Honda CB550
1983 Honda GL650 Interstate "Cafe'd"
2007 Triumph Bonneville

Offline Stev-o

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #60 on: April 11, 2016, 07:02:11 PM »
Hey Jeff....consider switching to stainless socket head screws, is this place close to you?


http://www.fwbt.net/default.aspx?page=home

Or you can buy a screw kit on eBay. 


Call Ken at Cycle X about the tubes. 
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Offline Jeffro93

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #61 on: April 12, 2016, 02:12:45 PM »
Steve - Ken says the fork tubes are fine.  I didn't clear explanation, but "it doesn't matter" was in there somewhere.

I need to check out the Fort Worth place. I've heard of it, but forgot all about it.


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1974 Honda CB550
1983 Honda GL650 Interstate "Cafe'd"
2007 Triumph Bonneville

Offline Stev-o

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #62 on: April 12, 2016, 02:22:44 PM »
Hey Jeff....another option is the bolt kits on ebay, pretty good value if you need them all.

Not sure if the head cover is included but would think so...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/HONDA-1971-78-CB500-CB550-POLISHED-STAINLESS-MOTOR-MOUNT-BOLT-KIT-/310474090680?hash=item4849b2a8b8:g:~FgAAOSwAHZUMrTh&vxp=mtr
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'74 "Big Bang" Honda 750K [836].....'76 Honda 550F.....K3 Park Racer!......and a Bomber!............plus plus plus.........

Offline Jeffro93

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #63 on: April 24, 2016, 06:14:21 PM »
UPDATE:

I probably should stay more up to date on this. But progress is slow enough that regular posts wouldn't have much to say.

So, I've got the head/cam cover installed.  The front suspension is rebuilt and installed withthr roller bearing upgrade.

AND, I lasted and tried my first wheel!  I'm quite happy with it, though I know a seasoned professional could improve on the work.  It's not as hard as everyone makes it out to be - just slow down and pay attention. 






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1974 Honda CB550
1983 Honda GL650 Interstate "Cafe'd"
2007 Triumph Bonneville

Offline Stev-o

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #64 on: April 24, 2016, 06:42:03 PM »
Nice!   This HAS to be done by Oct.
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Offline Godffery

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #65 on: April 24, 2016, 07:00:51 PM »
 Nice jom on the wheel!
What are you doing for brakes? Any Upgrades...?
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Offline Jeffro93

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #66 on: April 24, 2016, 07:30:32 PM »
That's the plan, Steve.  Looks like you'll have no trouble getting the Park Racer ready by then.

G - just stock brakes.  This only thing custom on this bike besides exhaust will be slightly bobbed fenders and a more attractive (IMO) tail light.  Everything will be stock, but  clean and fresh.


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Offline Godffery

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #67 on: April 24, 2016, 08:11:44 PM »
 Ok, if you have any issues with them just LMK and I could help you get the most out of the stock brakes.

http://www.vinmoto.org/gallery/v/VinMoto-Garage/album03/Godfferys-Garage-123/Parts+and+service/
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Offline Jeffro93

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #68 on: May 01, 2016, 07:12:20 PM »
Quick update for this weekend:

I cleaned up the rest of the hub/axle/speedo/etc. parts for each wheel and laced the rear wheel.  Next weekend, I'll install both wheels to verify alignment of hubs with rims before putting the tires on.  Close to having a roller!

I'll get my carbs back from Nils at Restocycle in a few days, but he was kind enough to send porn ahead of the real deal:






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2007 Triumph Bonneville

Offline zammykoo

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #69 on: May 01, 2016, 07:17:12 PM »
Those carbs are looking mighty fresh!


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Offline Stev-o

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #70 on: May 01, 2016, 07:26:19 PM »
Carbs look great, good decision!
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Offline SOHC4 Cafe Racer Fan

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #71 on: May 02, 2016, 08:23:29 AM »
Nils does great work.  He really turns the clock back on used parts - even better than new.
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Offline Jeffro93

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #72 on: May 08, 2016, 05:03:55 PM »
Quick update:  wheels on for quick check prior to spooning on the tires.   Won't get much done next weekend - youngest daughter high school graduation party...




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1974 Honda CB550
1983 Honda GL650 Interstate "Cafe'd"
2007 Triumph Bonneville

Offline Stev-o

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #73 on: May 08, 2016, 06:02:44 PM »
Looks good Jeff but def need some rubber!
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'74 "Big Bang" Honda 750K [836].....'76 Honda 550F.....K3 Park Racer!......and a Bomber!............plus plus plus.........

Offline Jeffro93

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Re: 1974 CB 550 Build Thread - "Resto-mod"
« Reply #74 on: May 08, 2016, 06:12:50 PM »
She rides on rails, man!!!


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2007 Triumph Bonneville
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