Topic: 500 vs 550 airbox and air filter??

[JBCB500]

Yesterday I picked up an airbox from a salvage yard.  They believed it to be from a 550.  I have a 500 and hope it will work - any reason it wouldn't?

Also, from 4into1 parts I note that the 500 and 550 air filters look slightly different?  If this is indeed a 550 airbox and I put a 500 filter in, will I have a problem?

[flybox1]

This Honda 17313-323-040 HOUSING, A/CLNR ELEM is used on these models and components:
 
Models with no year CB500 A AIR CLEANER + SIDE COVER
Models with no year CB500K1 A AIR CLEANER + SIDE COVER
Models with no year CB500K2 A AIR CLEANER + SIDE COVER



^^^ this means the CB500 air filter housing is only used on the K0, 1 & 2....and no other 5xx models.
Its probable that the shape of the 550 housing you picked up wont fit, regardless of the filter used.

[JBCB500]

Thanks flybox! Now I wonder if there would be any problem using a 550 airbox with 550 filter on a 500?

[flybox1]

Thanks flybox! Now I wonder if there would be any problem using a 550 airbox with 550 filter on a 500?

that's what I just answered 
The the part numbers are different.  If they were the same, then it would be a direct swap.
Im almost certain the 550 filter element is used in several CBs, so the filter is not the issue....its the shape/mounts of the housing itself.

[JBCB500]

Haha, apologies! Yes, I miss-read that badly!

[flybox1]

No problem.  search ebay by the part number i listed.  you might get a few listings.

[Scott S]

 I think the only difference is the breather/EPA stuff. The 500 boxes/plenums don't have the barbs for some of the EGR hoses. Otherwise, they're the same until you get to the '77-78 plenum, and even then you can make it work with the right air box to carb boots.
 I don't see any reason why you can't use the one you picked up.

[flybox1]

I think the only difference is the breather/EPA stuff. The 500 boxes/plenums don't have the barbs for some of the EGR hoses. Otherwise, they're the same until you get to the '77-78 plenum, and even then you can make it work with the right air box to carb boots.
 I don't see any reason why you can't use the one you picked up.

That would be cool.

[jonda500]

I don't see any reason why you can't use the one you picked up.

+1  I think any cb500/550-4 airbox will fit. I believe the air chambers (plenums?) are nearly exactly the same and are all interchangeable too (and all use exactly the same boots between the carbs and the air chamber)
I think a 500 filter would fit/work in a 550 airbox - I have both, let me know if you want me to check?
John

[JBCB500]

All good folks, thanks!

In fact, today I installed a 550 lower box with a 500 upper box and 500 filter.  Looks great! I'm looking forward to seeing if there's much difference between this and pods as soon as I get my petcock situation sorted!

Thanks as always for all of the input!