Topic: To cut or not to cut?

[AlekStooge]

Hi, just started disassembling my CB550. As I started taking the rear fender off, I didn't know what the best way to handle electrical components was. Should I cut the wires and get new ones or should I keep the originals?

Where would I be able to get a whole wiring kit for my 78 CB 550? What the best way to go about this.

Thanks

[Bankerdanny]

There is just no need to do this. This isn't a car with lots of nooks and crannies and a firewall or a modern bike with tons of electrical connections and sensors.

Removing the whole loom intact should take an hour or so.

You shouldn't need a new harness, but I would go to Vintage Connections link: http://www.vintageconnections.com/ and order his professional kit CK1 with the crimper. Then during reassembly replace connectors as necessary.

[Vinhead1957]

Keep the original as intact as possible. Even is you replace it can be used as a reference for the new one.  There are a couple suppliers, but I have not bought one.  I replaced the connectors with vintage connected supplier.

[madmtnmotors]

Is this where you got your inspiration?

http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=144052.msg1638469#msg1638469

[calj737]

Best advice I follow is to "deconstruct" as carefully as possible all stock parts and pieces. I do use them as a reference later, and if I opt not use them, they become cherished giveaways or replacement stock parts for others.

Hacking and ripping out for the sake of disassembly should be avoided if possible.

[AlekStooge]

Thanks to those who were helpful.