Topic: CB550 carb needles

[HawaiiMike]

I read another thread about poor running in general when carb needles get old and worn.  Then I went to the local Honda dealer and ordered a new set for my '76 CB550F, part # 16012-390-004.  The next day they called me back and said they can't get them from the main supplier.  They're checking with other Honda dealers to see if the needles are still around.

Now I saw a set CB550K needles, part # 16012-323-004.  Sure the taper is probably a little different.  I think it's more important to have four new needles with the exact same shape, even if their taper is slightly different from original.  Heck, I don't even know if the carbs on this bike are original anyways!

The bike is essentially stock, except for a MAC exhaust.

Any thoughts?

[Bill Vaughan]

Carb kits (to include needles) are available from Sirius at this link:  http://www.siriusconinc.com/search_result.php?PHPSESSID=5dcc9f01184154c13714729e0aab516d&make=HONDA&model=cb550&part=Carburetor+Repair+Kits&partno=&search=search&x=26&y=13

[Otto]

I speak from experience on this one. Carbs off 7 times before realizing that the needle tapers were waaay out of spec from OEM...

Don't use Keyster carb needles or any other non-OEM needles until you absolutely confirm that the tapers are the same as OEM.

If all 4 are the same, but, worng. It's wrong and it WILL drive you crazy.

Call Western Hills Honda or go to David Silvers Spares website and get the OEM needles.

Yep, the cost more, but, will work correclty!


bc

[HawaiiMike]

Yeah I read about the Keyster needles and am avoiding those kits.  What about K&L, are those the same parts/is that the same company as Keyster?

Thanks, Mike

[Bill Vaughan]

I checked several NOS suppliers before I sent you the link.  None showed your needles as being available.  That's not to say that you won't be able to find them somewhere.

Otto's point is well made - aftermarket carb. sets are not always true to the originals.  I have purchased more than a few sets that contained one incorrect jet size among correct ones.  You should, of course, compare the size markings on the aftermarket pieces against those of the original pieces.