Topic: chain question cb550f

[robdrobd]

I have a new chain for my cb550f. Two questions. 1. If the chain seems about twenty links too long, is it the wrong chain or am I missing something? 2. It is an o-ring chain which seems to be so wide that it rubs against the engine case. Should i not be using an oring chain on this model and year? Thanks

[Gordon]

You're correct in thinking that you shouldn't use an o-ring chain on a 550.  It's too wide and some have had issues with them rubbing a hole in the engine case. 

As for chain length, too long is fine because you can always remove as many links as you need to. 

[robdrobd]

You're correct in thinking that you shouldn't use an o-ring chain on a 550.  It's too wide and some have had issues with them rubbing a hole in the engine case. 

As for chain length, too long is fine because you can always remove as many links as you need to. 

Well, no sense in removing links as it is an o-ring chain.  Do I need a special tool to remove the links?

[Frostyboy]

Lots of info here on the topic for 550s.
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=65509.0
As far as removing links, I've always just filed/ground the rivets/pins on one side & punched the link out of the side plate with a pin punch. They're not too tough, give it a go.