Got the '78 CB550K to the "try to run it" phase: plugs gapped and installed, set up tank next to bike with some fresh gas, clear tube float level test and fix level for carbs 1 & 4 (lucky that only the outside carbs needed changes: did it on the bike).
Tried to start it: turned over nicely but no luck. Goosed it with a little starter fluid into the air cleaner and bam, runs like a kitten. Going to check the pilot screw setup tomorrow and see if that helps. When we got the bike it took a ton of starter fluid to get her going so definitely much better, but we don't want to have to spray it every time. We were hoping to avoid a carb rebuild this season so any ideas out there short of that? We've got new coils and NGK D7EV plugs, new OEM ignition plate, careful static timing and valve clearances. I'll do the timing light and dwell tomorrow but with static timing spot on that shouldn't affect starting. Of course I'm using full choke on the cold starts. Cranking speed is great (new AGM battery). My only idea short of pulling the carbs is to see if I can find a vacuum leak by spraying a little starter fluid around the boots once it is idling, but the boots look good and I tightened all their collars. We don't have a good MC compression or leak-down tester yet, but if it runs great when warm that doesn't seem a likely cause of cold-blooded startup.
Anyway, on the whole a good day. After a long winter of restoration work we have a smart looking machine that runs and makes a sweet exhaust purr! Having a celebratory beer and calling it a night.
