Topic: CB550 Starter Switch

[Beatz]

I couldn't figure what was up with my running lights and headlight until I found a post stating that both of those are dependent on a functioning starter switch, so I began to take my right hand control apart. Sure enough, the tool that owned the bike before me had that starter switch taped up with scotch tape and when I began to unravel it the thing exploded; springs, bb's, and little metal plates were everywhere. I don't know how to rebuild this switch so I was hoping that someone had an idea where to purchase one. My random googling thus far has been unfruitful. Any advice would be appreciated (can't really afford the entire right side control) Thanks guys!

It's a 1976 CB550.

[Frostyboy]

I'm not sure that the start switch is available as a single part. Whole control might have to be the way to go. 
This might help you as well. http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=40673.0 Good luck.

[SHELLFISH]

Do yourself a favor and replace the whole right switch.
Not cheap but you can find them on e bay.
My 76 550 lost the headlight. At night and on the highway of course!
It was the switch.

[fastbroshi]

  As an alternative to rebuilding, I just used the whole right hand switch pod from an '89 or '90 CBR600 F1.  The wires' colors were a little off but no problem with a wiring diagram.  Old throttle tube didn't fit just right, had to use the CBR piece.  I'm sure something else could be made to work too.  I just mentioned mine as I found it real cheap and I'm sure you could too.

[Bob750]

snip... Any advice would be appreciated (can't really afford the entire right side control) Thanks guys!
It's a 1976 CB550.

A while ago I ordered some controls (from Old Bike Barn I think) from a CB550 to cannibalize for my CB750. Perhaps luckily for you, I did not use much of the stuff. If you're interested, I'll photograph what I have and you can make an offer. The starter switch is a microswitch, not stock and I don't know if it works, but if you cover shipping, you can have it.

[BeSeeingYou]

New right side controls are still available from the dealers.  Why screw around with anything else?  I recently got one from www.babbittsonline.com for my 76F1 for $95. It's the same part for the 550.  Bike Bandit also has them though a bit more expensive.  The starter switch eventually implodes from age so why pay for a used one that may die at anytime?  It was an exact replacement except for the color of the kill switch which is kind of purple.  I just replaced it with the red one from my old set.

The starter switch is not really repairable but some have mounted an aftermarket switch but in reality by the time you hack up the wiring, find the proper type of switch, find a place to mount it that is not as convenient,  is it really worth the hassle to save a few bucks?  Buy less beer for the week.