Topic: Please forgive me...'76 550K compatibility question

[Nortstudio]

I have spent the past few days trying to search/research this answer for myself, but have gotten more confused as I dig deeper.

I am trying to determine which parts are interchangeable with a '76 CB550K.  I think I have it straight that the K and F series are slightly different for some things, and that 74-76 seem to have many things in common.  But because I only found a manual from 74-76 (and have been checking the parts numbers within), I am wondering whether this is a distinct break in compatibility, or just when the manual was published.  On the other hand, the Haynes manual (which I don't have) includes 1973-1977.  I didn't see any 1977 CB550 specific manual on the links page, or any of the other resource pages I found online.

Are there parts from years 1977 that are compatible with 1976?

Sorry if this is repetitive, just really looking forward to being able to do some research with some confidence.

Appreciate your time.

[Stev-o]

The motors are the same on the 550 K & F. Most, but not all, other parts are differant.

You are better off checking the parts fiche to see if the part #'s are the same, the manual is just to general.

Bookmark the fiche, it is very helpful whem trying to identify part names and placement.

Click:   http://www.westernhonda.com/fiche_select2.asp?category=Motorcycles&make=Honda&year=1975&fveh=2948 

[Nortstudio]

Thanks so much for the link.  Forgot to mention, I have downloaded a manual, and the parts list too.  The parts list has good detail (as far as I can tell), and now have your link bookmarked.  I can then jut make comparisons.

Really appreciate it!!

[Stev-o]

Thanks so much for the link.  Forgot to mention, I have downloaded a manual, and the parts list too.  The parts list has good detail (as far as I can tell), and now have your link bookmarked.  I can then jut make comparisons.

Really appreciate it!!

You're welcome. Don't be afraid to ask questions, we're here for you.
But beware, if you ask a dumb question, you may get a dumb answer!

PS. When are you getting your bike?

[Nortstudio]

Bike is due to arrive in 1 hour!  Very excited about diving head first into this new world.

I will definitely do my best to avoid the dumb questions. I'm all about reading manuals, and doing research. But in my experience, asking someone who may have been through the same issue is priceless.

That's what makes finding this forum so amazing. I feel much less
intimidated by the idea of wrenching this thing myself knowing it's here.

Thanks again. I'm sure you'll be hearing from me soon enough

[Duanob]

We will expect pics of course!

I have a whole bunch of parts that don't a 1976 Honda CB550K if that helps. trial and error. Like Meriggi said use a fiche to find numbers. Or just make sure if it's ebay or CL you're buying from the exact same bike. I see mistakes all the time on ebay. Somebodt trying to sell a part off of a '77 550K and he says it will fit 74 - 78. WRONG! But it isd buyer beware out there. Just ask and those of us with 76 Ks should be able to steer you in the right direction.

I know the intimidated part. When I bought mine and discovered how bad of shape it was in I was tempted to dump it or part it out. But now, after completely going through everything, I'm riding it around in the evenings and it rides pretty nice! Just needs a paint job now and I'll have a pretty decent bike.

[Nortstudio]

I'm goin to try to do as much research as possible before I shell money for anything. I found a really nice guy on this forum who is shipping me some much needed rear brake parts. Other things I have found on the online shops. I guess it's a good thing that I'm not trying to make it into a perfect period restore.

I really want this thing to run well, and safe. I will then think about getting into the look of it later. And there too, it will be on my own terms. Not holding myself to an "all original" standard.

Thank god!  It would probably be the death of me.

[TwoTired]

I really want this thing to run well, and safe. I will then think about getting into the look of it later. And there too, it will be on my own terms. Not holding myself to an "all original" standard.

You might wish to temper that thought with the knowledge that the original bike design sold hundreds of thousands of reliable, safe bikes that would run for thousands of miles.
I'm not so sure that can be said for all the "modified" or "Owner Improved versions".
Read the pages of this forum and see all the disgusting notes and complaints about previous owner's "improvements".

Cheers,

[Nortstudio]

I'm right there with you.

I meant that I do not wish to spend my next years salary on parts to adhere to the original blueprint. I dont need every part to be 1976 NOS.  If there is an aftermarket piece that fits and runs well, I'm fine with that.

I love the look of the fully restored, but I don't know that this particular specimen is the right starting point. Neither is the state of my wallet. So for now, I will be happy to have this one safe and sound, and most importantly, fun!

I have no plans to chop/bob/cafe it either. Seems to me, in my limited research, that this can cost about as much as A fully traditional refurb.

Someday...but not today.