Topic: I can do this? With some help... newbie has questions on a 550

[MarkM]

New guy to the forum seeking help regarding 1975 CB550.  Am looking at purchasing this bike locally, it runs however the oil light is "stuck" on, according to the owner he is not sure why this is.  I'm wondering if anyone can tell me are there parts available for these old bikes?  My biggest fear is buying something I can't find parts to fix up.  Any advice for what to be looking for that may indicate this is not the bike I should be buying would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks all,
Mark

[TwoTired]

If you can take off a tappet inspection cover, and see the top end wet with oil inside, then the pump is likely working and it's an indicator fault.

It is fairly common to find the oil sending unit gone bad, or plugged.  Sometimes a cleaning is all that is needed, sometimes a replacement is needed.
I would check with Honda for a replacement, or David Silver Spares (see the FAQ).  I also remember some prior posts about using a sender from a Honda car.  You might search for those.

Cheers,

[Johnie]

The oil light is there to let you know if the oil pressure in the engine is low. Has the owner checked to be sure the oil level is correct? As TT said it could be as simple as plugged or faulty oil pressure sending unit. Or the pump could be faulty or week. These bikes are pretty indestructible if they have had some average maintenance over the years. Running a bike low on oil will do damage. Who knows what you have there? Can you give us some more info like miles on bike, condition, does it appear to have been well cared for? Pics would help too.

[Stev-o]

I have a 550 and have had no trouble finding parts to restore mine.
Not all new parts are available from Honda, but used parts are plentiful and can be reasonable to downright cheap. Between this forum's for sale section and eBay, you will be able to find whatever you need.

I would not run it with the light on 'till you can diagnose the issue.
Good luck.

[MarkM]

Good stuff, thanks to you both!  Didn't buy that one, but another 75 550 with it's own set of issues. 
Will be researching posts and looking for help in the future am certain of it!
M

Looks like TT was up early, what were you doing at 3 in the morning on 7/27/10-couldn't sleep?

[TwoTired]

I've not found the time stamps for the posts to be reliable.  Could be an east coast/ west coast time thing.  I think there is a place in user options to shift your time to stamps to local.

I'm retired.  But, my bio clock is upset if I shift my hours by too much.  Usually 1 am is pumpkin time with midnight the general target.  It all depends on current activity.  If I'm mentally involved, the focus allows longer engagement and time is offset.  It's not like I have to get up at a specific time.  I get up at half past whenever.  But, I don't like shortened days (if you know what I mean). 

Cheers,