New CB550F owner/builder from reading uk

[Topcat]

Hi All,

Just thought I'd introduce myself. I've recently picked up a 79 cb550f that's been sitting for 7-8 years and in the process of getting it up and running. This is my first bike I've attempted to work on my other bikes are all fairly new (SV650, triumph tiger 800 and tiger 1200) so was up for a bit more hands on stuff. I'm currently in reading and trying to do this bike at weekends when I have time.

Currently the bike doesn't idle and doesn't run particularly well, but does start from a kick.

Things I've done so far:

Installed a battery (it was stored without)
Changed the oil and new oil filter
Taken off the carbs to give them a good clean (in progress)

I was looking to find a decent place to buy a carb rebuild kit (I've heard bad things of keyster kits but they seem the most readily available) , with gaskets and possibly new jets (maybe not needed haven't had a good look yet). I've noticed some damage to some of the screws on the outside carbs (drain screws) looks like someone has stripped them a bit so guessing there might be similar issues inside.

Looks like a previous owner has been rather botchy with their repair jobs (some of the electrics are held in with chewing gum etc)

Got a fair few jobs that need doing on the bike after i get it running.

Cheers
Topcat

[Nurse Julie]

Hi Topcat and welcome to the fun house 
Another option with carb kits is Cruzinimage, I use their kits on all my old Hondas and have never had a problem with them. Some forum members are dubious when it comes to Cruzinimage rubber bits as they say the rubber is crap but, like I say, personally, I have never had a problem with them and will continue to use them.
Good luck with your bike.

[Johnwebley]

I fitted Cruzimage carb kits to my Honda,made a great difference,well worth doing,

 and welcome to the fun forum,lots of helpful advice and comment,


 

[Topcat]

Appreciate it guys any recommendation on a place to get these preferably shipped from uk? (been stung on import fees before)

Cheers
Topcat

[Nurse Julie]

Cruzinimage parts only come from Japan. I will send you a PM and explain 

[SteveW]

Hi Topcat, I'm just just down the road from you in Stokenchurch.

I've had my 74 CB550 for 2 weeks, like yours carb issues and bodged electrics.

Steve

[Moorey]

Hi welcome to the forum.

[mike the bike]

Welcome to the forum TC. 
If the carbs weren't drained when it was off roaded, there's probably all sorts of crud in them and they will benefit from ultrasonic cleaning.  If the new jets don't help, that's the way forward.
When you get around to it,  a few photos would go dowm well.  It saves us having to fork out for bike magazines.