Author Topic: New project for a first timer CB550 build - Slowly getting back to it!  (Read 142127 times)

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Offline MoMo

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #100 on: July 15, 2013, 08:06:42 PM »
I love old pickups, particularly the late 50's and early 60's versions.

Me too, awesome truck you have...Larry

Offline bambuhiphop

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #101 on: July 15, 2013, 09:11:11 PM »
Thanks Guys! It is pretty cool truck. A blast to drive. I can't wait to get it all fixed up and all pretty like but the bike needs to be done first so...

I dropped my hubs off at the Powder Coater on Sat so I should get them back this next weekend. In the meantime I am prepping all the parts that go into them. Part of the problem is I took this bike down over two years ago. Having a hard time remembering what a few of the parts are  :P

Hoping I could get some help on making sure I have everything  :D

Starting with the front:

One part I cannot figure out is the wheel side collar. Number 27 on the schematic. Is it the left or right one below? And then what is the other one?



And here is everything laid out. Is it all there? Also in the All Balls bearing set are the two seals that come with the bearings 52 and 49?

« Last Edit: August 12, 2015, 10:11:42 PM by bambuhiphop »
75' CB550K -- Still in pieces but it rolls again!!!!

Offline MoMo

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #102 on: July 15, 2013, 11:05:10 PM »
The left collar appears to be the spacer between the motor and frame, the right one is the wheel collar...Larry

Offline bambuhiphop

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #103 on: July 15, 2013, 11:16:37 PM »
Thank you Larry  8)
75' CB550K -- Still in pieces but it rolls again!!!!

Offline SF

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #104 on: July 16, 2013, 11:12:47 AM »
are you going to reuse that axle or replace it? looks like it could use a good polish!
92 wr250 sold
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04 zx10r
73 cb350 twin
75 cb550f
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Offline bambuhiphop

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #105 on: July 16, 2013, 11:42:01 AM »
Reuse it. It is going to be polished and re-plated in a brushed nickel. Just pulled it out of the "To Be Plated" box to make sure I had everything.
75' CB550K -- Still in pieces but it rolls again!!!!

Offline RAFster122s

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #106 on: July 16, 2013, 04:28:00 PM »
Uh, plating will add material which can lead to issues in fitment through your bearings or for an axle nut be affixed.
It can be wire brushed to remove any discoloration, deposits, or oxidation.
David- back in the desert SW!

Offline bambuhiphop

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #107 on: July 16, 2013, 04:32:59 PM »
Ya, only the head will be re-plated (going for a particular look). The rest of it will be handled just like you mentioned. Same for the rear.
75' CB550K -- Still in pieces but it rolls again!!!!

Offline bambuhiphop

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #108 on: July 17, 2013, 10:15:34 PM »
Ok... got quotes back from some platers and holy crap they are expensive. Decided to reevaluate after seeing the prices.

So, to start I parried the parts going to the plater eventually. Then I went through the schematics and picked what parts I would reorder new from Bike Bandit, what I would replace with stainless from Ace, and then what I need to clean up.

When all is said in done about 90% of the bolts, nuts, and washers will be replaced with brand new stainless.

Spent a few hours polishing and cleaning up the below parts. They're not perfect but I'm pretty happy with how they all turned out.



« Last Edit: August 12, 2015, 10:12:25 PM by bambuhiphop »
75' CB550K -- Still in pieces but it rolls again!!!!

Offline bambuhiphop

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #109 on: July 24, 2013, 10:11:26 PM »
Very minor update. I am waiting for a slew of parts. Should have a bunch of new stuff in a few weeks. Once everything comes in I will be able to do a bunch of assembly.

In the interim I have been trying to keep myself busy with smaller projects. (Although I am running out!)

Got the disc masked and painted:





Also got all new stainless bolts for the triple:


And finally got my LED taillight in. Working on the mounting plate now:
« Last Edit: August 12, 2015, 10:14:07 PM by bambuhiphop »
75' CB550K -- Still in pieces but it rolls again!!!!

Offline bambuhiphop

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #110 on: July 29, 2013, 01:57:34 PM »
Got a few minutes out in the garage this weekend before I got sick. Boo!

On Friday I came home to this in the mail  ;D Looking forward to eventually getting this guy powder coated and on. Should look awesome.



Was able to remove the clutch. Also got the clutch side of the engine done. Everything looks real clean on this side. Except for the cover screws on this side everything broke down very easily.





On the drive side it is quite a bite dirtier. Was able to get the oil pump out but the screws resisted. Still haven't gotten the rotor off but just need to get a 20mm 1.5 bolt for that. Only thing left on this side is the stator neutral switch. Again, seized screw. I have found I learned my lesson tearing the frame down. Taking more time and care with the engine so I don't have to replace quite as much or find myself having to replace a hard to find part.



Also got the pistons removed. Started working on the studs. Two came out very easily with a good PB soaking. The others are still soaking but I may be getting that removal tool from APE.

« Last Edit: August 12, 2015, 10:15:48 PM by bambuhiphop »
75' CB550K -- Still in pieces but it rolls again!!!!

Offline Bankerdanny

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #111 on: July 29, 2013, 02:09:06 PM »
To my mind powder coating that points cover is a waste of a beautiful craftsmanship.

I'm glad you didn't have that axle plated. It wasn't plated to begin with and it's hidden. Clean up, lightly lube, install and forget.
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Current: '76 CB750F. Previous:  '75 CB550F, 2007 Yamaha Vino 125 Scooter, '75 Harley FXE Superglide, '77 GL1000, '77 CB550k, '68 Suzuki K10 80, '68 Yamaha YR2, '69 BMW R69S, '71 Honda SL175, '02 Royal Enfield Bullet 500, '89 Yamaha FJ1200

Offline bambuhiphop

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #112 on: July 29, 2013, 08:25:44 PM »
I have some ideas in mind for the cover that I think will highlight the craftsmanship.

Ya, me too. For one cost was just silly. And secondly your right, it's hidden away. I had forgotten that as I took the bike down close to 2 years ago but when I was looking at old pictures to refresh my mind it was like, duh! Happy with how it turned out though!
75' CB550K -- Still in pieces but it rolls again!!!!

Offline bambuhiphop

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #113 on: August 05, 2013, 06:35:23 PM »
Front hub back from the Powder Coater

« Last Edit: August 12, 2015, 10:16:18 PM by bambuhiphop »
75' CB550K -- Still in pieces but it rolls again!!!!

Offline SF

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #114 on: August 06, 2013, 12:17:08 PM »
nice color anything else?
92 wr250 sold
98 zx6r sold
04 zx10r
73 cb350 twin
75 cb550f
75 cb550f
72 r5c
rgid springer bobber project

Offline bambuhiphop

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #115 on: August 06, 2013, 12:21:13 PM »
Not right now. They had to re-shoot the rear hub cause they missed an edge. I am in a holding pattern for parts at the moment. Just trying to work on smaller items here and there while I can.
75' CB550K -- Still in pieces but it rolls again!!!!

Offline bambuhiphop

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #116 on: August 18, 2013, 04:54:50 PM »
Ok... Got some parts back so I could do 1 or 2 things this weekend.

Two random parts that came in is my new gas cap



And my new NOS stator neutral switch. The old one is all messed up behind a very stuck screw on the engine case. I found this for cheap so I got it.



Collar B that is in the rear hub was toast. After a lot of searching I finally tracked down an alternate part number that in on the 400 and 500 that is the same thing. It came from Thailand and is original. It was a little rusty so I cleaned it all up! New one is on the left. Original is on the right.



Rear hub came back from the powder coater. Happy with how it turned out  :)



The brake side was a bit dirty so I spent some time cleaning up so old rust and extra sand. Didn't go for perfection but it is a lot better.




Got the brake pads mounted. Just need to put the cotter pins in now.



Got my dampers cleaned up and put in



Threw the smaller bearing in the freezer and with a little grease, a hammer, and a block of wood got one bearing installed.



And finally test fitting the center spacer

« Last Edit: August 12, 2015, 10:18:49 PM by bambuhiphop »
75' CB550K -- Still in pieces but it rolls again!!!!

Offline SF

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #117 on: August 19, 2013, 10:12:10 AM »
looks great man
92 wr250 sold
98 zx6r sold
04 zx10r
73 cb350 twin
75 cb550f
75 cb550f
72 r5c
rgid springer bobber project

Offline bambuhiphop

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #118 on: August 19, 2013, 10:19:41 AM »
Thank you.
75' CB550K -- Still in pieces but it rolls again!!!!

Offline SohRon

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #119 on: August 20, 2013, 05:49:14 PM »
This is looking good so far, and good job of documentation! One question: where did you get those brake shoes? Very interesting configuration.

Keep up the good work!
"He slipped back down the alley with some roly-poly little bat-faced girl..."

Assembling my '74 CB550: http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=86697.0
Assembly of the Right-hand Switch (a rebuilder's guide):  http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=80532.0
Installing stock 4X4 exhaust: CB500-CB550 K: http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=82323.0
CB550 Assembly Manual: http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,151576.0.html

Offline bambuhiphop

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #120 on: August 20, 2013, 09:03:05 PM »
Thanks for the words of encouragement SohRon. I recently found your build thread. Absolutely love it!

I got the brake shoes from Dime City. Here is the link:

http://www.dimecitycycles.com/vintage-cafe-racer-caferacer-bobber-brat-chopper-custom-motorcycle-brake-parts-ebc-honda-cb-cl-450-500-550-rear-grooved-brakeshoes-ebc316g.html

I will keep up the good work! Or at least try, Ha! And the same to you.
75' CB550K -- Still in pieces but it rolls again!!!!

Offline bambuhiphop

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #121 on: August 22, 2013, 09:19:48 PM »
So I got my swingarm back from Hondaman this week. It turned out great! Thanks again Mark.

I got it prepped for powder coating. Used a 12" threaded 3/8" rod, fenders, and nuts per the recommendation and the pressed the shock bushings out. Followed the ides of others on here. Soaked in some PB for a bit and then used two sockets and ratchets and pushed right out. 30mm on one side and 15mm worked perfect for me. Arm is now the box with the other final parts that will match the frame.



I then moved on to the rear hub. Stuck the bearing in the freezer when I got home and using a very large socket I picked up got that guy in. It went in pretty easily. Before I had it all the way in it put the axel in to make sure everything lined up. It rotates pretty smoothly from what I can tell thus far.

Also, got the side of the hub on and then test fitted the retainer.



One thing I did notice that. Wanted to check on was the small gap between the retainer lip and the hub. I snapped a closer shot of the bearing and I think it looks good?



And the retainer gap



I pulled a old shot of the hub. I think it looks better  :P And I see a small gap here as well??



So I have two questions with this now.

1. Gap normal? Axle turns fine in there and when I rotate one bearing the other moves in turn...
2. My custom sprocket is on order. My question is should I mount when I get it or wait till after the hub has been laced up with the spokes and rim?
« Last Edit: August 12, 2015, 10:21:16 PM by bambuhiphop »
75' CB550K -- Still in pieces but it rolls again!!!!

Offline bambuhiphop

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #122 on: August 24, 2013, 04:20:36 PM »
Made some progress on the front hub today.

Got both bearings and the spacer in. Same process as the back and they went n without much effort. Just for fun I dry fitted the front assembly. Have to order 2 parts but aside front that. Think it is looking good.

Now I wait for powder coating and some more parts :)





Don't mind the threads. They work ;)


« Last Edit: August 12, 2015, 10:22:29 PM by bambuhiphop »
75' CB550K -- Still in pieces but it rolls again!!!!

Offline bambuhiphop

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #123 on: August 28, 2013, 09:42:45 PM »
Got two parts in the mail today. That's about all I have to share. Been super busy at work...

LED turn signal flasher


And the very shinny 41T 520 rear sprocket from sidewinder.
« Last Edit: August 12, 2015, 10:25:46 PM by bambuhiphop »
75' CB550K -- Still in pieces but it rolls again!!!!

Offline bambuhiphop

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Re: New project for a first timer CB550 build
« Reply #124 on: September 02, 2013, 10:21:55 PM »
The remaining black parts got picked up from the powder coater in Saturday morning. 1 piece needs to be resprayed but everything else turned out great. Namely the Swingarm. It got the Hondaman treatment and is all shinny. Just needs the shocks bushings and it is all set!!



One of my forks got a bit jacked a ways back so it got redone. Got a new seal in there and then mounted the front brake. Little bit of a scuff on the brake caliper but that will get taken care of later.




Dry mounted the bars so a can mark them up for drilling.



I had to replace my water heater this weekend so my garage got all deshivled. Since I had to replace it means I had redirect some bike funds so I will be delayed a few weeks on some part orders. That said the bike is starting to look like a bike again. Still a ways to go and a lot of dry fitting in this pic but it is still exciting to see it making progress :)



So, that's my progress for the weekend. I have a Bike Bandit order pending that has a slew of small parts in it so I will be able to assemble a few other things once it gets here.

I am hoping you guys can help me with one thing though. The rubber on the kickstand looks odd to me... Thoughts?


« Last Edit: August 12, 2015, 10:27:43 PM by bambuhiphop »
75' CB550K -- Still in pieces but it rolls again!!!!