Author Topic: Long time listener, first time caller  (Read 600 times)

0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic.

Offline The Duke

  • Pretty big nerd
  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 17
Long time listener, first time caller
« on: August 20, 2020, 08:30:12 PM »
Hello folks,
I just joined up, though I have been on the forums before reading lots.  I may have even been registered under another username at some point years ago, but have forgotten.
I bought a 74 CB750 about 5 years ago, and it has been sitting untouched for the most part.  It was a total basket case.  It is a rolling chassis (in loose terms) with the engine just sitting in the frame, not even bolted in.  I got three or four baskets of parts with the bike, some stuff I'm sure is missing.  I do plan on doing a complete rebuild, engine tear down top and bottom, all new electrical system, and heavy body mods.
Since I have never actually seen the bike running, I would love some advice on where to start.  Should I get the chassis rolling properly first and mount the motor even just to test compression, or just pull the motor and crack it open straight away?  And is a bottom end rebuild even worth considering if the motor seems strong?  I know that some internal parts are getting difficult to find; I always thought that the connecting rod bolts were torque-to-yield bolts, but now I'm reading that is not always the case.  Can anybody verify if the K4 did or did not use these bolts?
Thanks in advance for the guidance.  I am excited to learn and share my progress with the forum.
I like motorcycles
I learn by doing

Offline tool14

  • Expert
  • ****
  • Posts: 793
Re: Long time listener, first time caller
« Reply #1 on: August 21, 2020, 03:27:43 AM »
welcome aboard.

Offline MD

  • Expert
  • ****
  • Posts: 1,311
  • Living in the North Woods overlooking The Lake.
    • MN North Woods
Re: Long time listener, first time caller
« Reply #2 on: August 21, 2020, 06:06:24 PM »
Welcome from NE MN,

-MD
1975 CB550F Super Sport;  Lake Superior Circle 1000, 45-90 Saddle 1000, All in Yooper 1000 and SS 2000 in 48 hrs:  1985 GL1200A, MN in State SS1K

Offline Stev-o

  • Ain't no
  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 34,394
  • Central Texas
Re: Long time listener, first time caller
« Reply #3 on: August 22, 2020, 01:40:09 PM »
Welcome.  I wouldnt crack open the bottom if it seems to shift ok.

A leak down test is my preference when checking an old motor.
'74 "Big Bang" Honda 750K [836].....'76 Honda 550F.....K3 Park Racer!......and a Bomber!............plus plus plus.........

Offline The Duke

  • Pretty big nerd
  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 17
Re: Long time listener, first time caller
« Reply #4 on: August 22, 2020, 02:50:56 PM »
The engine itself isn't even in running condition.  It has been sitting totally open to the environment since before I bought it.  Exhaust and carbs are off, and most of the engine cover pieces as well.  I'm sure any of the oil left inside the engine is just serving to trap dust and dirt now.  Is there a good way to properly clean the engine without opening it?  Would a simple engine flush take care of that, or do I need to inspect for oxidation?
Thanks
I like motorcycles
I learn by doing