Howdy folks,
New to the forums, generally new to all things motorcycling. I really didn't want to write-up a project thread because it would be a letdown if I failed to complete it, but I believe it will help facilitate my learning of All Things SOHC/4.
Somehow, a few months ago, I got motorcycles in my blood. As I continued researching my desire festered but I found myself rather broke. After weeks of CL trekking I settled on a '77 CB550F. Tonight is her fourth night in my possession.
A little background on the bike. She was last running somewhere around 6 months to a year ago, but was (presumably) last ridden often back in '05 when the PPO (or PPPO) wrecked her. The PO purchased her when his friend, the PPO, left the state, but the PO had other projects to tend to, which is why I came into the picture. When last running the PO cited that the bike would die after running 5 minutes or so, which he believes could be the electrical system.
I decided to take up the challenge to restore the CB550F to her former glory. Note that my mechanics' experience previously consisted of inflating tires, changing oil and installing a hitch. I didn't know all the parts to a motor vehicle until very recently. Despite this, I am still confident I can figure this out (with some help). For now, getting her running (well) is priority, with replacing broken parts to OEM or equivalent along the way. My budget is tight: I can afford supplies and small expenses, but the goal here is to get her on the road, not to customize her (just yet).
The Good:- Engine turns over (confirmed)
- Transmission reportedly good
- Frame OK
- Bike metal in good cosmetic shape, very little extraneous rust.
The Bad:- Rear wheel askew (replacement)
- New chain and perhaps sprockets required
- Tank severely dented (replacement probably required)
- Seat damaged (reupholstering or replacement)
- Electrical system suspect
- Needs front fender, side fairings, replacement Rear Fender B (plastic)
- Needs replacement airbox rubbers
The Ugly:- Has upside down dirt bike handlebars installed (ha ha)
What I've Done So Far:I've been working on her each day so far and have accomplished:
Tank/Seat removal
Airfilter/Airbox/Rear Fender removal
Carburetor removal
The Plan So Far:This is my current plan, but as I discover more issues it will obviously get adjusted accordingly. Tomorrow I will start on the carburetor (using Simple Green, still need to work out the procedure). At the same time, I will begin researching the electrical system and test connections with my multimeter.
At the moment I have no desire or capability to remove the engine from the frame. It turns over fine with the kickstart, but I haven't measured the exact compression (don't have a vacuum gauge). I do want to clean the exterior: almost every component on the bike is covered in dust/dirt. I guess elbow grease is the way to go (with some Simple Green perhaps)? Any suggestions to make it look less dull? (yes I will probably do a search on this site when the time comes)
Another problem I ran into is the discovery that the airbox -> carb rubbers are disintegrating, and they seem very hard to come by. edit: looks like ClassicMotorcycleSolution has them, will need to order.
I'll have updates with the progress of the carbs and more photos!
