Topic: First bike/project 76 CB550

[Badger 5]

Just got my first bike at the beginning of this month and I figured that I might as well make it a project so I could learn about the bike.  Maybe a bad idea, we'll see.  Just wanted to see if anybody had any thoughts or advice.  Is there anything I should be looking for that isn't obvious.  I know I have a float that is stuck because gas is everywhere and I have to figure out the wiring because the blinkers flash sporadicly and that tone has to go.  Also, does anyone have any good advice on tires. Mine are shot.

http://www.sohc4.us/gallery/v/members/personal/Badger+5/

[ProTeal55]

Looks like a clean project 

[cafe75-550]

It looks like you've got a pretty good example there, I know that pictures can sometimes be deceiving though. I would pick up a shop manual and just plan on going through a complete tune-up and service to find out the state of the bike. You'll need to be checking all the running gear for sure, chain, sprockets, forks, brakes, spokes, wheel bearings, etc to make sure you don't become part of the road. You may not have to replace or rebuild all that stuff, but checking its condition is a must.

The carbs should be rebuilt, pick up some rebuild kits from Z1 enterprises or whatever source you prefer and go through them. Its not all that hard, and there's quite a few threads on how to do it.Just make sure you move slowly and keep track of all the little parts 

 The blinker thing, and the wiring thing on a whole comes up on these bikes a lot also, but if your harness isn't too molested it shouldn't be a problem, just take a little time. The blinker issues are usually related to grounding or loose connections.

As far as tires go, actually as far as the entire project goes, check out Doug ID's thread on his rebuild. Its a huge thread, but covers just about everything in really good detail...he's got some pretty good tires too. http://www.sohc4.us/forums/index.php?topic=16766.0 I've been looking at pirelli sport demon's as well, for some more aggressive tires.

I've got a 75 550k, (actually a 76 as well, complete parts bike) that I've been going through. My gallery is here http://www.sohc4.us/gallery/main.php?g2_itemId=13230, although I don't have detail pictures of all the stuff I've done. I replaced the sprockets and chain, rebuilt the forks, changed the steering head and swingarm bearings, rebuilt the carbs, changed oil and filters, adjusted the valves (a couple of times now) as well as went through the brakes (no new parts, just cleaning and bleeding). Then I started taking stuff off and making it into a cafe...



Good luck with the project! Most of the info you need is here somewhere, use the search and feel free to ask questions!

[dusterdude]

It looks like you've got a pretty good example there, I know that pictures can sometimes be deceiving though. I would pick up a shop manual and just plan on going through a complete tune-up and service to find out the state of the bike. You'll need to be checking all the running gear for sure, chain, sprockets, forks, brakes, spokes, wheel bearings, etc to make sure you don't become part of the road. You may not have to replace or rebuild all that stuff, but checking its condition is a must.

The carbs should be rebuilt, pick up some rebuild kits from Z1 enterprises or whatever source you prefer and go through them. Its not all that hard, and there's quite a few threads on how to do it.Just make sure you move slowly and keep track of all the little parts 

 The blinker thing, and the wiring thing on a whole comes up on these bikes a lot also, but if your harness isn't too molested it shouldn't be a problem, just take a little time. The blinker issues are usually related to grounding or loose connections.

As far as tires go, actually as far as the entire project goes, check out Doug ID's thread on his rebuild. Its a huge thread, but covers just about everything in really good detail...he's got some pretty good tires too. http://www.sohc4.us/forums/index.php?topic=16766.0 I've been looking at pirelli sport demon's as well, for some more aggressive tires.

I've got a 75 550k, (actually a 76 as well, complete parts bike) that I've been going through. My gallery is here http://www.sohc4.us/gallery/main.php?g2_itemId=13230, although I don't have detail pictures of all the stuff I've done. I replaced the sprockets and chain, rebuilt the forks, changed the steering head and swingarm bearings, rebuilt the carbs, changed oil and filters, adjusted the valves (a couple of times now) as well as went through the brakes (no new parts, just cleaning and bleeding). Then I started taking stuff off and making it into a cafe...



Good luck with the project! Most of the info you need is here somewhere, use the search and feel free to ask questions!

niiiice

[csendker]

Nice bike.  The lack of rear marker lights may be causing some problems, or at least get them on before you go tearing into things electrically.  What to do?  I'd check/replace all fluids, check all safety systems (ie. brakes...) and the chain/sprockets first.  Do a full-blown tune-up replacing bits as required.

[Badger 5]

I took the rear lights off just before I took the pic.  I'm replacing them with the smaller 74 style because these are a bit to big for my taste.

[csendker]

I know what you mean...

[WJL75]

Nice looking bike Badger 5.  Are you in Wisconsin?  I've got a 76 550K too and am in Milwaukee. 

Other than getting the carbs fixed and your electrics, I'd start with the brakes and and get it running.  After a few miles test drive you may notice that a full tune up is needed (timing, cam chain adjustment, ect.).  Get a Clymers or other manual and have at it.  There are a few posts on here that can tell you were to download them. 

These bikes get easier to work on once you start.  The people here are helpful and love to see pictures of your progress. 

[Badger 5]

I actually come from the Sooner state but live in Chicago.  Badger 5 is more of a reference to a garbage disposal.  Long drunk story but some names just stick when you have wonderful friends as I do. I will definitely keep everyone posted on my progress.  I'm not changing to much.  New handle bars, mirrors.  Got a nice new tank and side covers on e-bay just because I want to restore this tank. I'm looking for someone who can give me an original paint job in Chicago.  I really like the brown.

[ProTeal55]

I actually come from the Sooner state but live in Chicago. 

Where abouts in Chicago are ya from ?
Check out HTTP://WWW.TONUPCHICAGO.COM
Great bunch of guys, with lots of knowledge about these and other vintage bikes..
Make sure to get that 550 up and running by April 28th for the Rockers Reunion vintage bike show/run @ Delilah's !!

[Badger 5]

I live around Addison and Sacramento.

[Badger 5]

I am buying an original 4 into 4 from a guy on this forum.  Love the way they look.  Not sure what range of tire size I can go with.

[greenjeans]

I have a bike that same bike.... if you like I have a pdf file of the Honda Manual I can send you.

[Badger 5]

I have a bike that same bike.... if you like I have a pdf file of the Honda Manual I can send you.

please do I'll take everything I can get.