Topic: 75 CB750 - Pittsburgh, PA

[Pappykono]

Just received a 1975 that the previous owner believes is a 1973. Based on the resources on this site I see that it is indeed a 1975.  This bike is a gift, maybe a curse, depending on what I do with it.  I thought about being a purist with it but it seems there is not much original left in good shape.  I thought about testing the compression after oiling the engine but it left a puddle on my driveway after being trailered 15 miles to my house and not being run since 2006.  I think I'm looking at a complete tear down and I'm a bit scared since I have a history of getting into projects and loosing interest/motivation after a while.

I don't know what I want to do with it now that I see it is rough.  I like the cafe racer style but that may be even more work that I may not finish.  I'm more of a funtional guy so I can live with cosmetic issues as long as it works.  Suggestions are welcome.

Seems the carbs have an "F" on part of the engine so I don't know if I have an original engine. The rear end is shackled and lowered.  The brakes are gone.  The exhast is missing the decorative "knuckles" that connect the engine to the 4-1 pipe.  The electric has issues according the the PO.  He did tell me that the engine "ran like an alter boy through the Vatican" so it must have been running good until parked.

Here are some shots of what I got.  I an trying to open space in the garage for this project during Winter.

[Pappykono]

Add'l shots:

[ekpent]

Looks like a perfect candidate for a cafe or custom.Try and get it running though before you start ripping it apart,also you will be more motivated to pretty it up when you hear it roar or take a little spin around the block 

[fmctm1sw]

You got your work cut out for you but I've seen far worse.  It reminds me of the clunker I have in my garage!  What's the number on the frame and engine, you can get the year from that.  Those turn signals aren't K3 style (73)...

[Pappykono]

Based on the VIN it is a 1975 (K5) since the number starts out 25*****.  I'm not sure where to find the engine number yet.  A number on the airbox (I think) says "HM CB750-F" which makes me think the engine isn't original or has had parts replaced over the years with whatever fit.  Since I'm probably not looking at a true restore I guess I don't care as long as I get parts to fit it.

The friend I got this bike from has another CB750 that he rides.  He thought he was giving me a 1973 but that must be the one he has.  I will need to make sure he gives me the correct title when I see him next.

Looking at the before and after pictures here gives me hope but I'm sure it can be anything I want to create if I throw enough money at it.  My 12 y/o like the Cafe Racer style also so maybe we will lean that direction so I can try to do something with my son.  Any tips to make a functional (but not cherry) ride on a budget is welcome. 

This brings a question to mind that I haven't read here yet. How much did you spend (ball park figures) to modify your bikes from it's original form?  I know you can spend as much as you have/want to but I'm asking to get an idea of what I should expect.

[fmctm1sw]

This brings a question to mind that I haven't read here yet. How much did you spend (ball park figures) to modify your bikes from it's original form?  I know you can spend as much as you have/want to but I'm asking to get an idea of what I should expect.

I'm terrible about keeping track.  I will say it adds up quickly though.  Body parts, tires, a decent exhaust and a seat have all put a pretty big dent in my wallet at one time or another.  And that's just stock replacement, I have no idea what the mod guys are spending.

[keiths]

If you don't think you want to rebuild the engine, try to get it running first before you start anything. You will need several hundred dollars to make it road worthy for tires, battery, exhaust and some small stuff.
What part of Pittsburgh are you in?

[Pappykono]

I live in O'Hara Twp (near Blawnox).  Glad to see another Yinzer here!

[Pappykono]

Starting out without the ignition key and gas lid key make for a slow start.  PO may have these for me but I may need to wait a week or two.

I did get some MMO and pour it in #1 and #4 cylinders.  So, is it a propriatary tool used to access the cylinders under the tank?

My first steps (based completely on what I read on this forum so please add/correct me) to this project are:
Maintenance:
1 - Mystery Oil in the Cylinders for at least a day
2 - Remove and clean tank (key required)
3 - Oil Change
4 - Drain Carbs and flush with new gas
5 - make sure pistons move freely (more MMO and/or Sea Foam into heads)
6 - try to clean out some additives once pistons move
7 - learn/proceed with a compression test using kick start
Electrical:
8 - buy/install a battery
9a - if ignition key arrives - attempt to start using both switch and kick
9b - Bypass ignition switch and go for jumped or kick start.
10 - check for spark in each cylinder
10a - check points/ coil and all electrical portions of operation if no spark - Fix the glitch
Carbs
11 - start messing with the Carbs on the bike to get it to try turning over
12 - pull and clean carbs
13 - re attempt some kind of start
14 - Read more - ask for help