Topic: 1977 CB 550 K&N POD install

[em2kelly]

I have a 1977 cb550K that I am converting to a cafe racer. This is my first old bike and I have never dealt with carbs before. I have a set of K&N pods that I want to install. I am leaving the exhaust stock with the four pipes. If I install these pods what mods do I have to make to the carbs. Jet Size? Please help.

[mmtsquid]

If in fact the carbs are unmolested, you should have 90 mains installed currently.
In my 77 550, I have pods and Mac 4-1 and am running 95 mains - runs perfectly.

Having said that, just wait on the pods.
Save your money, and go find a 650 cam, tach, and drive gear.  BEST MOD YOU CAN POSSIBLY DO!

[buffalogt750]

I think he said he already has the pods, but you are right about the 650 cam. By far it is the best bang for the buck for the 550.

[IAmCitizenMe]

I think he said he already has the pods, but you are right about the 650 cam. By far it is the best bang for the buck for the 550.

Is that for over-all performance, or is it better for racing? Just curious.

[buffalogt750]

The 650 cam installed in a 550 will give you a noticeable power increase mainly in high rpm's like over 5000 rpm. It is very streetable. It is similar to installing a mild street aftermarket cam. Like already said you need to use a 650 tach drive gear and a 650 tach. You also have to use the 550 cam gear because the 650 uses a different cam chain. I have a 76 550 with a 650 cam, Dyna 5 ohm coils, stock 4 into 4 exhaust, pod filters and 115 mains. Very happy with these mods and still average 42 mpg.

[em2kelly]

Thank you guys for the help I think I got an idea of what to do now, but I have another question that may be stupid. I disassembled the stock air filter box and realized that the only thing supporting the carbs is the box and the connections from the carbs to the engine. If I install the pods I don't understand what supports the carbs. Is there a bracket or something.

[mmtsquid]

Nope - if you use pods, the only thing supporting the carbs are the rubber boots between the carbs and intake.
I know it seems kind of hinky, but it works just fine!

[BVCB650]

Those rubber sleeves are usually a thick rubber and many are stiff from age. With 8 clamps holding it all together, pretty much rock solid. The problem is GETTING the carbs off. Major pain IMO.