Topic: CB500-CB550 guys: What do you use for an air filter?

[SWMN-CB500]

I just discovered today that I need a new air filter for my CB500. I've been trying to cure a rich mixture problem for a while, but running without the air filter really makes a big difference, leading me to believe that the air filter is too restrictive or clogged up. The one I have appears to be some type of washable oem replacement filter. It doesn't look like it's very dirty.Does anyone know where I can get a good flowing air filter? I checked all the online motorcycle parts dealers that I know about an none of them have what I need. I found a foam unit called a Uni filter, but they want to sell me some special washing fluid and some special oil for their filter. Do any of you use Uni filters, and if so, do you use their washing and oiling fluids, or do you use something else? Thanks.

[Einyodeler]

Get yourself a Uni foam filter,they`re less restrictive wash right out and last for years.

[fergie]

I use a stock filter from any honda dealer.If you use a uni you might have to re jet from stock settings. If you get a uni just wash out with dish soap let dry and re oil with any foam filter oil. you can get it at any motorcycle dealer . don't fall for that "you gotta use uni cleaner and uni oil crap".good luck ,Fergie.

[TwoTired]

I use the Uni 4055 filters on my cb550s.
I haven't found the need to rejet.  But, the bikes also have stock exhaust systems.
I also use the Uni brand cleaning solvent and oil.  As, I believe it is formulated not to damage, prematurely age, or disintetegrate the foam formulation used by Uni.   Other solvents and oils may work.  But, then you become the test facility.  And, if you guess wrong, your engine may ingest bits of foam and dirt better trapped and held by the filter.  And, of course you have to buy yet another filter if it becomes damaged.

Also, the amount of restriction offered by the foam filter is affected by the oil buildup applied to the filter.  I allow Uni to engineer the proper oil type and viscosity for use in their filters.

The cleaners and oil cans last a long time. I have yet to use up the first ones I bought.
Cheers,

[GeoffT]

When I bought my 550 f1 there was no air filter in it. Got standard paper type one from Dave Silver Honda Spares.

[hymodyne]

just installed a uni filter in my air box this weekend,

will let y'all know,

hym

[DrMark]

Just like TwoTired, I run a Uni filter on my 1978 550.....works great....no re-jetting required.

[74cb750]

I use OEM filter from Honda. It doesn't cost that much.
michel

[Joe Danger]

I use the Uni filter, I got it on Ebay for about $15.  I use Honda motor oil in it, and just strain out the excess.  These are very forgiving engines.

[SWMN-CB500]

Thanks for all the info. I didn't think the originals would still be available at the dealer, since none of the online parts places have them, not even JC whitney. I'll have to find out where the nearest local dealer is and check there, or maybe just get a uni filter since all you guys have good things to say about them. The filter I have looks like it is made of a light green felt type material bonded to the case with a light colored epoxy. It doesn't look very dirty, but it's very restrictive since the bike runs very rich with it in, even with my mixture screws turned out over 2 turns, and when I take the filter out, it is too lean.

[jbailey]

You can get an original for about $40 from Honda.

I use a Unifilter.  I paid about $20 for it.  There is no need to rejet.  My bike runs great with it.  I use PJ1 foam filter oil, it's red colored which makes it easy to see where the oil is when applying.

[78 k550]

I also just picked up the UNI filter for my bike. I picked it up at the Honda dealer and got it for $25.00
I'll be putting it in the 550 before our Peak to Peak run this weekend.
 I run them in my Bull's and never had a problem with them. Years of enjoyment. LOL


 

[LeoLegendATL]

anyone use the individual cone filters for each carb? I've seen this done and it looks interesting.

[SteveD CB500F]

David Silver sells NOS air filters for £13.95 (~US$25) plus freight of course.

Can you buy Unifilters in UK?

[clarkjh]

Red Green special.
3" round 72GMC air filter cut in three.  I pulled the old paper filter apart and put the GM filter piece in its place and ran a bolt through the center to hold it together.  Also put a square of Duck Tape for good luck.
The filter cost me about 3 bucks.
This fixed the running way lean problem the bike had,(74 550K), still haven't got it where I would like it yet, but comming.

James