First hello to all members, I am "Fryercar". This is my first post, I've lurked around quite a bit. I live in Upstate NY.
I have a project 76 CB550 I am just starting to begin on. I do not own it, it belongs to another person. I will attempt to fix it for him.
The bike: Lots of signs of grime and neglect.
Engine will run. Points have weak spark, carbs are filthy, seized caliper, multiple oil leaks, sprockets, chain, forks, etc etc...
Its a running and somewhat assembled basket case. Really the only usable as is item is the handlebars.
OK, whats project one. After running it in my shop, oil is dripping from second fin up on cylinder 4 at the right corner and also from the outside exhaust stud. Does this mean cracked head or worn guide. Low compression on #2 & 4. Oil inside exhaust port on #2.
I have only run the engine to look for leaks and check compression. I also removed the inspection plugs and manually checked valve lash with my fingers. I found excessive side to side movement at the adjuster end. This is a sure sign of rockers or shafts out of tolerance at very best, Yes?
I will inspect head gasket, warping, cylinder condition once head is off. I removed both crank covers and found no oil leakages or weeping. A good sign bottom end may be in better condition I believe?
There are leaking forks, crispy cracked fork boots, pointy sprockets, leaking at the gear selector seal and output shaft seal. I see the very basic base of a project,,, maybe.
I am having a hard time finding a source of rebuilt heads for the bike, nor do I have the tools to rebuild the head myself. Any Ideas? Bueller?? Thanks in advance for any help. The owner is committed and I can do anything but the machining or paint he has requested. I also know its not going to be cheap.
Now to figure out how to post a pic, It will win Grimy'est bike award.
