Topic: CB550 vs CB550F

[ZoomyZen]

Hello everyone, I'm very new and preparing to tear down a CB550F.  This is my bike:



I got it just the other day, rather I assumed ownership the other day, I might be able to pick it up Sunday.   

As of now I'm just familiarizing myself with this environment and trying to come up with a game-plan.

*Warning - Nube content to follow*

Would anyone be willing to share just how a 550F differs mechanically from a 550, or perhaps any advice that might pertain to a project like this?  First off I will need to free up the front break, preferably before I try to load it into my pickup.  I guess I'll go with the grease-gun trick.   

Thanks!

[dave500]

just remove the entire caliper to get it rolling.

[ZoomyZen]

Well that's a thought LOL! 

Good logic lesson..  Correct isn't always the best method.  Thanks!!

[Fritz]

Yes, you'll only need to loosen the two caliper bolts with a 14mm socket to free the front brake. You don't even need to remove them.

Regarding the differences between a CB550(K I suppose) and a CB550F:

Exhaust: 4-4 exhaust (K), 4-1 exhaust (F)
Frames differ in some aspects related to the different exhausts - depending on the model year.
Rear brake lever
Kickstarter
Footrests
Carbs: Different jets, different carb type and manifold on the K3 since '77
Air filter element - Important: you'll need part no 17210-390-003 or 17210-390-P00 for the F model. The filter for the K models are similar but won't fit (17210-404-670 or 17210-404-P00)   
Side covers
Seat
Rear seat bar
Wire harness

All other parts should be interchangable

[ZoomyZen]

Wonderful!   Thank you!

[Stev-o]

Mechanical - same motor and trans, carbs are differant as stated above. Of course, these items are all on stock models, no telling what has been changed over the last 35 years!
Look here for more info-->> http://www.sohc4.net/index.php/cb550/cb550-model-guide

+1 on just loosening caliper, did it last month.

[Duanob]

Also front forks internals are designed a bit different too. Better damping I assume.

[Stev-o]

Also front forks internals are designed a bit different too. Better damping I assume.

Which one is better? First I heard this.

[fmctm1sw]

the service manual (available here) has a chapter on the differences between the 500 and 550 in one of the chapters and a 550F supplement at the end.  Maybe some clues there...

[Bluegreen]

Also front forks internals are designed a bit different too. Better damping I assume.

Which one is better? First I heard this.

The later model.