Topic: CB550 Engine Fitment

[88BuckMeister]

My plan was to fully assemble my CB550 motor, and then mount it in the bike. I'm now watching videos of people doing head work on engines already installed, and it looks pretty tight...will a fully assembled motor easily fit in the frame? I'll have all the side covers taped off and such. Just wanna make sure.

[denward17]

Don't know about install yet, but mine came out easily (wife helped) with the top breather cap off.

I had a 2x4 strapped to the back side of cylinders/head and it lifted out with plenty of room.

While out, I grinded/rounded off the lower mount to help with future installation.

Picture attached is of my 750 frame, but did the same on the 550.

Edit: Also had a block of wood/small jack under the engine before removing all engine mount bolts and raised it some just before removal.

[bryanj]

On the 550 remove the top breather cover, the oil filter and the sump to make for more "wriggle room"

[Mark1976]

On the 550 remove the top breather cover, the oil filter and the sump to make for more "wriggle room"

+1 to the above, its just easier assembling the top end with the engine on a bench or build station. You can do all your adjustments (points, timing, cam chain, valves etc)statically, then just slip it in, hook it up and get ready to push the starter button.

[jonda500]

Removing the breather cover, sump and oil pick-up definitely makes it a lot easier! Probably impossible with the oil filter on.
I like to wrap the bottom frame rails in alfoil and tape to protect the paint and the engine sump sealing surface (the foil stops sticky tape residue getting on the paint).
John

[calj737]

On the 550 remove the top breather cover, the oil filter and the sump to make for more "wriggle room"

This is easiest if you plan to “lift and slide” the motor in while the frame is upright. Many lay the motor on its right side on some protective pads, then lower the frame onto the motor. The wriggling and finessing is easiest with no front end or bars, but it can be done. If your bike is otherwise assembled, remove the bits Bryan cites and lift it in from the right side (easiest in my opinion).

The motor weighs about 150#, but if you sit on the garage floor and scoot the motor on some cardboard/pads to the frame, a simple lift into your lap then into the frame is all it takes.