Topic: 550 engine rebuild q's

[dergs713]

Hey there guys, my first post on the site. So far this forum has been extremely helpful.  I am in the process of assembling / rebuilding the top end on my 75 550f. The bike was sitting for 20 years so I've ran into many problems along the way.

heres the issue:

Broke a seized plug in the head and had to purchase a new one on ebay. New one looks good just need to clean it up.  During this i also took the motor down to the case.  Should I replace the rings?? they look ok..  Also the placement of the gap in the ring should be staggered right? AND does anyone know is there a "DYI" way of compressing all four pistons to put the head back on..? Anything would help, new to the bike scene.

Thanks,
MATT

[Scott S]

 Go here: http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=17788.0

 Take a look at the downloadable CB500/CB550 workshop manual. Lots of step by step instructions with pics.

[moham]

also check out the tips and tricks board. there's several approaches to the piston ring compression that you'll have to experiment with. careful cos breaking rings on reassembly is a distinct possibility.

check the rings against specs and then make your own call. idk, but i am generally of a mind to replace stuff that needs/wants it while you have things apart. makes for fewer hindsight kicks in the balls.

[crazypj]

You only compress 2 sets at a time.
start in the middle and then the outside.
 I make ring compressors from 22ga. steel, always have the right size 

[Motoguy23]

For compressing piston rings I just use a regular hose clamp that is oiled and not too tight that it won't slide off the piston.  stagger the pistons so 1 and 4 go in and then 2 and 3 otherwise its hard making sure all 4 go on in one shot.

I'm sure someone will tell me that is terrible but it worked for me.

[crazypj]

It's easier to do 2/3 first, you have more room for 1/4

[dergs713]

Thanks a bunch guys. I really appreciate the help!! Ill give it a go here soon
Matt