Honda-SOHC

SOHC.co.uk Forums => Project Board => Topic started by: DomP on August 10, 2023, 08:55:03 PM

Title: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 10, 2023, 08:55:03 PM
I decided I needed a CB550 in my like after completing (nearly) my XS650B restoration.  I found a UK 1976 cb550f1 on 32k and in relatively good condition with very little apparent rust or corrosion, it was last started in 2017 but still turns over so fingers crossed a service and strip and clean of the carbs, new plugs will get it running.  I've bought a compression tester so I can find out what kind of health the engine is in and will stick my inspection camera down the plug holes to see what it all looks like in there.

So far I have discover a few good and few not so good things.

Good-
The frame must have been painted or powder coated at one point as its far too clean bar a few knocks.  A previous owner has gone over it replacing all engine cover fastenings with stainless cap heads.

Not so good-
The gear lever looks to be from another bike, it's been over clamped in an attempt to gain a grip on the shifter splines which are a little bit chewed up.  All float bowl screws are chewed up and are a mix of length and head type, possibly the worst thing I've encountered so far is the rear wheel.  I'd noticed it was very hard to push around so stripped the rear wheel out, the hub has been dinked on the edges by a hammer or something so it was catching on the drum plate.  When I removed the plate from the hub I found very uneven wear on the shoes and lining which has also cracked in several places, new hub or a replacement lining needed. 

Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 10, 2023, 11:57:42 PM
Good luck finding a new hub or a second hand hub that isn't cracked. However you can get the hub relined with the brake liner out of a Morris Minor I believe. Search the forum for links to who does that type of work, one in lower Wales IIRC.

Sounds like your going to need a new gear selector shaft, I have a couple spare if you do. Also had a gear lever but I've sold it recently. You can find them second hand but the chromes usually crap.

I also have 3 spare carbs off the 550, 069a carbs are standard on that model. I have 2, 3 and 4 cylinders. Not particularly for sale unless you're really desperate, you can heli-coil those threads but it's a tricky job..
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 11, 2023, 08:56:16 AM
I decided I needed a CB550 in my like after completing (nearly) my XS650B restoration.  I found a UK 1976 cb550f1 on 32k and in relatively good condition with very little apparent rust or corrosion, it was last started in 2017 but still turns over so fingers crossed a service and strip and clean of the carbs, new plugs will get it running.  I've bought a compression tester so I can find out what kind of health the engine is in and will stick my inspection camera down the plug holes to see what it all looks like in there.

So far I have discover a few good and few not so good things.

Good-
The frame must have been painted or powder coated at one point as its far too clean bar a few knocks.  A previous owner has gone over it replacing all engine cover fastenings with stainless cap heads.

Not so good-
The gear lever looks to be from another bike, it's been over clamped in an attempt to gain a grip on the shifter splines which are a little bit chewed up.  All float bowl screws are chewed up and are a mix of length and head type, possibly the worst thing I've encountered so far is the rear wheel.  I'd noticed it was very hard to push around so stripped the rear wheel out, the hub has been dinked on the edges by a hammer or something so it was catching on the drum plate.  When I removed the plate from the hub I found very uneven wear on the shoes and lining which has also cracked in several places, new hub or a replacement lining needed.



All sounds normal to me for a 45+ year old bike that has had a previous owners tinkering    ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 11, 2023, 01:37:51 PM
Thanks Oddjob, I've had a look and got a few leads to chase up regarding the brake lining, I think the carbs are very much salvageable with an m4? Helicoil.

Yes I think so too Trigger, nothing insurmountable...so far!  Is it you that is able to re-line hub brake linings?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 11, 2023, 01:51:56 PM
Yeah M4 helicoil, you'll find the insert is about 2 threads too long, maybe fit one and see and then trim the others before fitting based on what you find when you test fit the first one.

Ignore the screw sizes listed by Honda for the bowls and the tops, the float bowls are too long, the tops are too short So the top ones strip out because there are too little threads engaging and the bottom strip out because the threads come out of the other side of the casting, then they corrode and when you remove them they strip the thread out of the casting as that corrosion gets pulled through or they damage it so much it strips out when you try and refit the screw. Fit slightly longer screws in the tops and smaller ones in the float bowls or trim the existing ones.

There are stainless steel replacements readily available as are new JIS screws, they won't rust and petrol doesn't bother them. Don't fit socket bolts or allen keyed IMO, they can exert too much force and strip out threads.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 11, 2023, 06:43:11 PM
Thanks Oddjob, I've had a look and got a few leads to chase up regarding the brake lining, I think the carbs are very much salvageable with an m4? Helicoil.

Yes I think so too Trigger, nothing insurmountable...so far!  Is it you that is able to re-line hub brake linings?

If you are going to buy a helicoil kit, V-coil are suitable for rolled threads  ;)
And the carbs do not have enough meat on them for a  Time insert  ::)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 11, 2023, 07:39:30 PM
Thanks Oddjob, I've had a look and got a few leads to chase up regarding the brake lining, I think the carbs are very much salvageable with an m4? Helicoil.

Yes I think so too Trigger, nothing insurmountable...so far!  Is it you that is able to re-line hub brake linings?



I did hub lining but, have now sold the lathe. Near on imposable to find someone with a big enough lathe to take a full wheel so, a full strip is required.
Not a cheap job, the donor Honda brake drum have shot up in price and a lot of work involved.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 11, 2023, 07:57:52 PM
I've done loads of inserts in carb bodies and none have ever failed  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 12, 2023, 05:36:45 PM
On 69a's. It does not have enough alloy for the collar with a time insert  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 12, 2023, 09:24:00 PM
I'm going to order an m4 helicoil kit off ebay, I've used them a few times before so I'm sure it will work on the carb body.  Just to confirm, those are m4 lower bolts (×16) and m5 upper bolts (×8)

I've found a bit more bodgery today, not only have the carb bodies been rattle canned in black with the bowls off but one has been butchered and had the jet JB Welded (up- see pics) although ive managed to pick it apart and removd the mangled jet.  That same body is missing the flat spring steel jet retaining spring, are they available separately?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on August 12, 2023, 09:35:45 PM
I have ordered some from 4 into 1 in the us but they come in sets, i saved a bit by ordering via a us mate, if you do order and need one urgently i could lend you one
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 12, 2023, 09:58:43 PM
I have ordered some from 4 into 1 in the us but they come in sets, i saved a bit by ordering via a us mate, if you do order and need one urgently i could lend you one

Thanks Brian!  However I'm wondering if I need a complete new body looking at the jet seating area, what do you think?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on August 12, 2023, 10:16:39 PM
If the O ring fits tight it will work OK, carb sets and bodies are starting to get scarcer, a complete set of 500 or 550 of a different number will be ok if rejetted but dubious about fitting one odd carb of a different number, i have a few odd bits hanging about and will look if you give me carb number but it wont be quick and cant be sure what i have
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 12, 2023, 11:47:22 PM
looks like the Emulsion tube is all mushed up. Give the carbs a total strip and assess what you need  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 12, 2023, 11:55:02 PM
A set is on ebay but, i would ask the seller to send pictures with the float bowls removed >>> https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/314768758353?epid=10028018716&hash=item4949ae1651:g:71EAAOSwtHRk2AFv&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAA0G%2BoGv80GLmU%2BX91MyCkAlV328khKGpRY7WxBNTHfLk3aexNvW%2Bz6uUiZeSY%2FWVllZk7ndskp1ZwRg1D5gUUlRTcSFS5ZH2zLejxTY6F69%2F8scIUYaJh4TU%2FCwQ%2FKwaIHwMXMg78CBh3LRT14pDC%2F%2Bs9KH7Eni2TiVWPDXPmTAMDomwsOapFyy6DT7FzcgppxH3Ka1exZT7n5sF%2BeWZ5nYpnZq8q6pa2We7K1Wt5QVe3L%2FW02G485LX8pMWKYIIDfD1HSMALb6m8D7Ht6Ncn6go%3D%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR86r2L69Yg
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 13, 2023, 07:11:00 AM
Yes you're correct Trigger, looks like they've tried to drift the emulsion tube out...rather unsuccessfully!

It's no.4 carb I need but having all the spares might come in handy, I didn't expect this to be plain sailing, twice as many carbs as my xs😆
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 13, 2023, 07:13:23 AM
I thought the keihin 069a were a more commonly used carb? Barely any or their parts on Ebay
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 13, 2023, 07:17:06 AM
Yes you're correct Trigger, looks like they've tried to drift the emulsion tube out...rather unsuccessfully!

It's no.4 carb I need but having all the spares might come in handy, I didn't expect this to be plain sailing, twice as many carbs as my xs😆

You drift the tube out from the other end, needle side  ;) If it was plain sailing, you would be bored by now  ::) Having a spare set usually works out cheaper in the long run. 
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 13, 2023, 07:19:57 AM
I thought the keihin 069a were a more commonly used carb? Barely any or their parts on Ebay

The earlier carbs are more available from imported bike being broken for spares  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 13, 2023, 08:05:24 AM
Yes you're correct Trigger, looks like they've tried to drift the emulsion tube out...rather unsuccessfully!

It's no.4 carb I need but having all the spares might come in handy, I didn't expect this to be plain sailing, twice as many carbs as my xs😆

You drift the tube out from the other end, needle side  ;) If it was plain sailing, you would be bored by now  ::) Having a spare set usually works out cheaper in the long run.

True, plenty to keep my occupied this winter I think.  A full spare set in decent condition could be a godsend actually, I'll message the ebay link you sent me to check their condition under the bowls.  Thanks for your help too!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 13, 2023, 08:50:33 AM
I had a shed load of carb body's that i cleared out last year. Julie put them on ebay and sold all within a month.
Most owners damage (Snap off ) the float pin towers trying to get the pin out. I have always found that if, they are well stuck in. It is easier to run a thin blade down the side of the towers and cut through the brass pin. Cheaper to replace a in than a carb body  ;)

Hope you get a result .
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 13, 2023, 02:40:38 PM
Amazingly the Ebay seller of those carbs is unwilling take the bowls off to enable me to check the condition.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on August 13, 2023, 03:28:08 PM
Amazingly the Ebay seller of those carbs is unwilling take the bowls off to enable me to check the condition.

That might be because he knows they are not very good inside.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Nurse Julie on August 13, 2023, 06:47:48 PM
Amazingly the Ebay seller of those carbs is unwilling take the bowls off to enable me to check the condition.
Well, that's a poor show, they probably have no internals in them 😂😂😂
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Seabeowner on August 13, 2023, 06:52:18 PM
Amazingly the Ebay seller of those carbs is unwilling take the bowls off to enable me to check the condition.

That might be because he knows they are not very good inside.
Equally amazing they sold in a day. Did you buy them?
If they were listed as used, they must be serviceable. But just looked they are just marked pre owned, so maybe anything goes.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 13, 2023, 06:58:52 PM
I would of taken a chance as, not listed as spares and repair  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 13, 2023, 08:06:45 PM
I have a spare number 4 carb body, 069a, and most of the internals for the rest of the carb bodies, I'm just waiting for Dom to see if he needs anything else besides the carb body, an emulsion tube and the jet leaf spring. Looking at the state of his carbs it's likely that he will.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 13, 2023, 09:00:49 PM
I wasn't prepared to take the chance given his response, removing 4 screws per bowl would take all of 5 mins.  Any way I've carefully drifted all four emulsion tubes out, no4 is damaged although the internal orifice that the needle enters is ok but really needs replacing, other than some float straightening on all other carbs they are good.

In short I think I need the body of carb no4, it's emulsion tube, main jet and the retaining spring, or just a complete no4 carb.  I've spent most of this afternoon stripping the black rattle can paint off them, carb cleaner wrinkles it up nicely.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 13, 2023, 11:22:18 PM
I wasn't prepared to take the chance given his response, removing 4 screws per bowl would take all of 5 mins.  Any way I've carefully drifted all four emulsion tubes out, no4 is damaged although the internal orifice that the needle enters is ok but really needs replacing, other than some float straightening on all other carbs they are good.

In short I think I need the body of carb no4, it's emulsion tube, main jet and the retaining spring, or just a complete no4 carb.  I've spent most of this afternoon stripping the black rattle can paint off them, carb cleaner wrinkles it up nicely.

The needle enters the emulsion tube and that is its guide  ;)
Did you get all the float pins out OK ?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 14, 2023, 08:02:37 AM
All float pins came out easily Trigger, the pin entry end of the emulsion tube is only slightly marred on the top edge but I'll replace it anyway.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 14, 2023, 12:18:24 PM
I have a spare number 4 carb body, 069a, and most of the internals for the rest of the carb bodies, I'm just waiting for Dom to see if he needs anything else besides the carb body, an emulsion tube and the jet leaf spring. Looking at the state of his carbs it's likely that he will.

Sent you a pm
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 18, 2023, 12:37:22 PM
I had a bit of a deeper delve into my bike yesterday, the air box has been messed with to the point I'm not sure what's missing even when looking at the Cmsnl parts list.  I'm guessing lots of the parts aren't even available any longer which leaves a bit of a dilemma.

Can anyone advise me as to why I have two cut wires in the loom that have been connected seemingly the wrong way? Hopefully I've got the carb parts here to reassemble and bench sync and fuses on their way so I might be able to test the electrics by next week...who knows I might even get it started.



Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 18, 2023, 01:25:18 PM
The wires are to the solenoid and it maybe a aftermarket unit that had the colours the other way round. The solenoid is only a switch and it may not matter which way they are fitted on some  ;)   
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Johnny4428 on August 18, 2023, 01:47:21 PM
Yes as Trigger says, actually the yellow/red wire from the solenoid looks as if it is connected to the yellow/red on the loom, apart from that little bit of black connection in between. That whole wiring looks as if it needs a good going through. Alarm bells would ring for me with that block and blue connectors fitted.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on August 18, 2023, 01:57:37 PM
Those piggy back connectors (faded blue one) are notorious for poor connections plus if wrong size wiring for connector it can almost cut the cable in half. I would be replacing that with a decent alternative.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 18, 2023, 02:28:45 PM
Yeah I'm having alarm bells too!  I'll go through every connector and clean or recrim with jap connectors that I've got from doing my xs.  Hopefully nothing too bad with it all, the seller claimed he'd ridden it in 2017 but I have my doubts, however it did have a clean MOT in 2016 so I wonder if he'd raided it for parts as it had no fuses or spark plugs when I got it delivered.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Deano400 on August 18, 2023, 03:01:57 PM
Agree, it most probably is an after market part. The PO has put the connector in there as the after market part meant the connectors were male to male and female to female. Not the way I would have done it but was the easiest way to get round the problem.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 18, 2023, 04:16:38 PM
All that wiring mess near the coils is supposed to live in a small box which mounts onto a plate bolted onto the frame, that way it keeps them reasonably dry and protected etc. Is all that missing?

The foam is missing from the metal piece removed from the bottom of the airbox, you must have it fitted or it will wreck the filter with oil mist. Is the spring missing that secures the filter?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on August 18, 2023, 04:20:01 PM
The two wire goto the insulated activating coil in the solenoid and it really doesnt matter which way round they go.
The air filter system is missing a foam filter that you can cut out of a kitchen scouring pad.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 18, 2023, 05:53:00 PM
You also have this part missing from the bottom of the air box >>> https://www.sohc.co.uk/index.php/topic,29346.0.html
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: andy120t on August 18, 2023, 06:08:30 PM
Is any of that filter/drain stuff at the bottom necessary or can it just be removed. Isn’t it US West Coast emissions related, or something similar?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 18, 2023, 06:25:23 PM
Yeah it was emission related, California related almost certainly.

You can ditch it all and just fit the 500 filter, keeps cleaner as well. Vent the pipe from the breather over to atmosphere.

Either keep the old stuff or sell it on, your choice.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Seabeowner on August 18, 2023, 07:16:08 PM
The wires to the solenoid may have been reversed as the RHS switch has been replaced at some point. The early 500s only had the yellow /red to the switch and that was then earthed through the bars. The 550Fs switches have two wires to the switch (the yellow/red and a green/red I think) that completes the circuit.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 18, 2023, 07:23:56 PM
Yeah it was emission related, California related almost certainly.

You can ditch it all and just fit the 500 filter, keeps cleaner as well. Vent the pipe from the breather over to atmosphere.

Either keep the old stuff or sell it on, your choice.

Using a 500 air filter sounds a far simpler option to me, and this won't affect carb jetting from standard?  I'm also missing the airbox lid😫
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 18, 2023, 07:28:46 PM
The snorkel fitted to the 550 can be replaced by the tool tray off the 500 as well. It was fitted to reduce induction noise mainly. Jetting will be fine.

Roo has a couple of the tool trays which are far handier than having the snorkel fitted, they ain't cheap however as they are getting ultra rare these days but you can also get a spare fuse holder in it as well, which can be very handy.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 18, 2023, 10:14:12 PM
This is the airfilter fitted to it that's had the element cut away for some reason, is it a cb500?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 18, 2023, 10:19:18 PM
No that's a 550 one, the hole in the bottom is where the pole on the piece at the bottom of the airbox sticks through, what a waste of an airfilter, might as well not be fitted. No idea what the hell that bracket is doing bolted to it, that's part of the airbox mounting brackets.


Ahh, I'm betting the spring was missing and that was fitted to space the filter out to seal it against the front. So the springs missing?

If so, this is what you need.

https://www.davidsilverspares.co.uk/parts/by-part-number/partnumber_17216323020P/
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 19, 2023, 08:20:22 AM
The spring is missing, I was going to make something up to do that job for now but I'll definitely go down the 500 filter mod as originality isn't something I'm bothered about.  I still intend light modifications and haven't ruled out doing a bit of a cafe racer.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 19, 2023, 03:12:50 PM
Try this fella.

http://www.sohc.co.uk/index.php/topic,27149.msg250841.html#msg250841
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 19, 2023, 07:15:09 PM
Thanks! I'm sent him a pm so fingers crossed
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 19, 2023, 07:47:25 PM
You need to ring Dave Baker at the phone number given in that thread Dom. See if he's still doing them.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 19, 2023, 10:13:20 PM
Hopefully he still does Ken, I messaged Charlie to see if he remembered what the donor hub was from because the part number no longer exists.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 19, 2023, 11:43:27 PM
Appears to be a VW Mk3 Polo 1993.

Check the dimensions.

https://www.gsfcarparts.com/parts/braking/brake-drums-shoes/brake-drum
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 20, 2023, 12:10:54 AM
No matter what I do GSF comes up with nothing, those links dont even work for me for some reason.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 20, 2023, 12:20:40 AM
No matter what I do GSF comes up with nothing, those links dont even work for me for some reason.

The ones i used to use where Honda Civic drums, not easy to find and not cheap. I found that aftermarket drums were a lot harder to work with and some even had old crushed ball bearings from when they recycled the steel.
Honda OEM number was 42610-SB2-010, 42610-SB2-761  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 24, 2023, 03:58:52 PM
How about this Dom?
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/333827058618?hash=item4db9a4abba:g:bEAAAOSwMGBf2jdm&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAAwP91%2FFBnA7SeWFp2W9T4C2jvAfTNy1o5UlSCw%2B4FCuB%2F9C7otpfOCyt6LbcBqByDWG8vsDFOs5wRrn2ve1F7oBI0L2CxzWAGCDKAl6gjAMkmW3Z4CE5d5tuHYGmcOvh7AZzoTuEaDYFhAnM3p09RhU7pNagaQLiU5Y3909rH%2FsEeK81ZDTaCnB%2FLKSZ9I3o70lMMQKqmn%2FO%2Fq9zL1gnrzkMPDDjwqDAZytav7RwN%2F3lonBs1LdEUlddf%2BIqVT2O8Xw%3D%3D%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR8aL2oDFYg

Might be worth a gamble.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 24, 2023, 05:26:18 PM
Too big on the inside diameter  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 24, 2023, 05:44:27 PM
Thought the original spec was 180mm with a max spec of 181mm, which that drum clearly shows to be the same max spec.

Plus it's supposed to be the equivalent of the 42610-SB2-010 which you listed.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 24, 2023, 08:07:14 PM
How about this Dom?
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/333827058618?hash=item4db9a4abba:g:bEAAAOSwMGBf2jdm&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAAwP91%2FFBnA7SeWFp2W9T4C2jvAfTNy1o5UlSCw%2B4FCuB%2F9C7otpfOCyt6LbcBqByDWG8vsDFOs5wRrn2ve1F7oBI0L2CxzWAGCDKAl6gjAMkmW3Z4CE5d5tuHYGmcOvh7AZzoTuEaDYFhAnM3p09RhU7pNagaQLiU5Y3909rH%2FsEeK81ZDTaCnB%2FLKSZ9I3o70lMMQKqmn%2FO%2Fq9zL1gnrzkMPDDjwqDAZytav7RwN%2F3lonBs1LdEUlddf%2BIqVT2O8Xw%3D%3D%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR8aL2oDFYg

Might be worth a gamble.

Only just noticed this, it looks like it should work
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 24, 2023, 08:08:34 PM
Having read that 550f's take 25mm fuses I spent ages searching for some and ordering them only to find my fuse box takes 30mm
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 25, 2023, 07:44:10 AM
Thought the original spec was 180mm with a max spec of 181mm, which that drum clearly shows to be the same max spec.

Plus it's supposed to be the equivalent of the 42610-SB2-010 which you listed.

As i have already stated on this thread, you have to be careful of aftermarket drums. It needs to be 180mm spot on or like the old Honda ones were 179.850mm. The AP lockheed will be a tad over 180mm.
Try a Brembo 14.5069.10  or a Bosch 0 986 477 063

These were the last one i bought for Mick's and Roo's hub >>>https://www.autodoc.co.uk/brembo/1657868
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 25, 2023, 01:08:07 PM
The specs listed show it as being 180mm. AP Lockheed are a decent make.

That Brembo one is mage expensive, especially when all you want is the liner.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 25, 2023, 04:59:32 PM
Not expensive at £60 per drum. You get what you pay for.

My mate who is a window fitter had worn out his OEM brake disc's after 75000 miles on his van and he replaced them with cheap shite from europarts. They only lasted 10000miles  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 26, 2023, 11:09:12 AM
Before I commit to getting this hub relined, what's going on here with the alignment?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 26, 2023, 11:24:34 AM
Alignment Dom? Please clarify.

Correct me if I’m wrong here but weren’t AP Lockheed original equipment on some 750f models?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 26, 2023, 12:55:07 PM
Before I commit to getting this hub relined, what's going on here with the alignment?

Show me a picture of you hub because i may have one already done  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 26, 2023, 02:05:49 PM
Alignment Dom? Please clarify.

Correct me if I’m wrong here but weren’t AP Lockheed original equipment on some 750f models?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 26, 2023, 02:06:49 PM
Before I commit to getting this hub relined, what's going on here with the alignment?

Show me a picture of you hub because i may have one already done  ;)

Will do when I can but for some reason I can't upload photos today?!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 26, 2023, 02:56:39 PM
When using a 500 air filter in a 550 airbox how do I prevent it dropping it the bottom?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 26, 2023, 03:04:04 PM
Before I commit to getting this hub relined, what's going on here with the alignment?

Show me a picture of you hub because i may have one already done  ;)

Hmm, I've had to resize my photos which I've not needed to do before.  Here you go Trigger.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 26, 2023, 06:28:10 PM
Before I commit to getting this hub relined, what's going on here with the alignment?

Show me a picture of you hub because i may have one already done  ;)

Hmm, I've had to resize my photos which I've not needed to do before.  Here you go Trigger.


Sorry Dom, hard to tell from those pictures. I thought you had the wheel stripped down and that is the picture i was after to ID the hub  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 26, 2023, 06:50:27 PM
Before I commit to getting this hub relined, what's going on here with the alignment?

Show me a picture of you hub because i may have one already done  ;)

Hmm, I've had to resize my photos which I've not needed to do before.  Here you go Trigger.


Sorry Dom, hard to tell from those pictures. I thought you had the wheel stripped down and that is the picture i was after to ID the hub  ;)

I did have but put it back together so I can move it about in my cramped garage.  It's a standard 550f rear hub so I could send you photos from one on ebay?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 26, 2023, 07:06:46 PM
I got it started today after a carb rebuild, it sounded a bit rough but I've only done the cam chain adjustment so not looked at the tappets or timing! I remembered I'd not checked the compression so did a test after it's brief time running.  The results were worryingly poor, 70,75, 80, 82ish, as its not been started since 2016/17 I'm guessing I've got either piston ring wear or very poorly adjusted tappets. Is this likely to be the case on 32k?

I have found that it's not running on points but electronic ignition (Dyna S) which was a nice surprise as its one less thing to have to mess around with.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 26, 2023, 07:15:39 PM
When using a 500 air filter in a 550 airbox how do I prevent it dropping it the bottom?

AFAIK the filter will sit correctly. I seem to recall it's the same psychical shape and size, just with a hole in the bottom on the 550.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 26, 2023, 07:31:32 PM
When using a 500 air filter in a 550 airbox how do I prevent it dropping it the bottom?

AFAIK the filter will sit correctly. I seem to recall it's the same psychical shape and size, just with a hole in the bottom on the 550.

It will sit down too far meaning it doesn't line up with the airbox hole. I think the 550 filter is held up by the metal pipe and gauge screen.

Regarding the rear hub alignment I mentioned earlier, there is a photo a few posts back where the sprocket carrier isn't in alignment with the hub.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on August 26, 2023, 07:34:51 PM
Sprocket carrier is not fitted correctly
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 26, 2023, 07:41:38 PM
Before I commit to getting this hub relined, what's going on here with the alignment?

Show me a picture of you hub because i may have one already done  ;)

Hmm, I've had to resize my photos which I've not needed to do before.  Here you go Trigger.


Sorry Dom, hard to tell from those pictures. I thought you had the wheel stripped down and that is the picture i was after to ID the hub  ;)

Here you go Trigger, this is what the internals of mine looks like.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 26, 2023, 07:49:53 PM
Before I commit to getting this hub relined, what's going on here with the alignment?

Show me a picture of you hub because i may have one already done  ;)

Hmm, I've had to resize my photos which I've not needed to do before.  Here you go Trigger.


Sorry Dom, hard to tell from those pictures. I thought you had the wheel stripped down and that is the picture i was after to ID the hub  ;)

Here you go Trigger, this is what the internals of mine looks like.

Is that the hub from your bike ? Can not see any cracks in the liner .
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Nurse Julie on August 26, 2023, 07:57:34 PM
When using a 500 air filter in a 550 airbox how do I prevent it dropping it the bottom?
A 500 air filter will not fit a 550 air filter box, it'll just drop to the bottom and won't line up where it needs to, I've tried it personally as I have 500 and 550.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 26, 2023, 07:59:30 PM
I need this angle picture to ID what sort of hub you have. Like this. I have put a picture on this forum before with the two different types of hubs but, can not find it  ;)




[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 26, 2023, 08:02:59 PM
OK, I'll go out and get a photo now.   Regarding the 500 air filter, I though of making a bracket to bolt though the lower airbox hole to prevent the filter slipping down.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Nurse Julie on August 26, 2023, 08:14:24 PM
OK, I'll go out and get a photo now.   Regarding the 500 air filter, I though of making a bracket to bolt though the lower airbox hole to prevent the filter slipping down.
You could just use a 550 air filter Dom. There are 2 different 550 air filter boxes, one has a rubber cushion around it the other doesn't, as well as other differences in the air filter box set up between the 2 550's.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 26, 2023, 08:20:06 PM
OK, I'll go out and get a photo now.   Regarding the 500 air filter, I though of making a bracket to bolt though the lower airbox hole to prevent the filter slipping down.
You could just use a 550 air filter Dom. There are 2 different 550 air filter boxes, one has a rubber cushion around it the other doesn't, as well as other differences in the air filter box set up.

I used a 500 filter because I'm missing quite a few of the original airbox bits and Ken told me it's the easier option.  Mine is the rubber cushion type.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 26, 2023, 08:22:58 PM
Trigger-
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Nurse Julie on August 26, 2023, 08:25:37 PM
OK, I'll go out and get a photo now.   Regarding the 500 air filter, I though of making a bracket to bolt though the lower airbox hole to prevent the filter slipping down.
You could just use a 550 air filter Dom. There are 2 different 550 air filter boxes, one has a rubber cushion around it the other doesn't, as well as other differences in the air filter box set up.

I used a 500 filter because I'm missing quite a few of the original airbox bits and Ken told me it's the easier option.  Mine is the rubber cushion type.
Ah yes, I remember seeing your photos now. If I remember, you had the piece with the stand on it but not the panching plate, which you can do without anyway.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Nurse Julie on August 26, 2023, 08:33:20 PM
This is what Trigger did to my bike as I also had bits missing, so all I've got is the bottom part in the air box, the same as you have, I have a 550 air filter, of which there is two types and a made up lid.

[attachimg=1].
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 26, 2023, 10:55:31 PM
Any thoughts on my low compression results folks?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on August 26, 2023, 11:17:05 PM
If you are concerned about the compression readings after you have checked the valve clearances it might we worth trying some oil down the bores then re-check with all the plugs out.

If its piston related they should come up massively, if little change might be the valves need re-grinding.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 27, 2023, 12:19:49 AM
Trigger-


Ok Dom, it is a 323 hub. I must have one in one of the store rooms. Will have a look for it and get back to you  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 27, 2023, 06:34:46 AM
If fitting the 500 filter is a problem in the 550 air box just replace that part with the 500 version. CMS have 3 new ones in stock for around £30 each.

It seems a little bit of overkill tbh but the 500 filter is generally easier to find and generally a lot cheaper to buy, genuine that is not aftermarket. So it will pay for itself in the end.

You could just fit the 550 filter with the bottom tubed part of the recycling system fitted as well. What you shouldn’t do is fit it without that part fitted as well, firstly because it has a small seal that seals around the hole in the bottom of the filter and secondly because without that seal unfiltered air is getting into the engine and you might as well not fit an air filter if that’s happening.

Drop a little oil down the plug holes, just a few drops, and leave it for a while. Test compression again, don’t forget, throttle wide open, kill switch to off. It could be ring wear, it could be the rings are stuck in their grooves so aren’t sealing like they should, the oil may help them become unstuck. If the readings go up significantly then that points to the rings being the problem.

I seem to recall that the 550 brake plate won’t fit in the 500 hub, it fits physically but a flange on the plate rubs on the hub. Been a while so I might be mistaken.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 27, 2023, 07:51:02 AM
Thanks all, I'll have another look at it today, struggling to get a steady idle, carbs set to factory with genuine jets etc and bench synced and the low compression concerned me a bit.  I'll get there, might take me delving into the engine which I've never done before.  Is it that costly to do a DIY top end rebuild?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 27, 2023, 08:01:11 AM
A 550K0, 550K1, 550K2, 550F1 brake plate is middle number 374 and was fitted to the 323 hub  ;)
A 550F2, 550K3 brake plate is middle number 341 and was fitted to a 404 hub  ;)

Dom has a 323 hub as he has a CB550F1 UK model   ::)

It is very easy Dom. All you had to do is unplug the hose that runs from the top of the engine breather cover where it attaches to the air box at the bottom. Find a rubber ferrule that would fit over the pipe at the bottom of the air box. This would cap any oil vapour from the engine. Use a 550 air filter with what you already have and hunt for a lid for the air box.  ;) 
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 27, 2023, 08:03:49 AM
Thanks all, I'll have another look at it today, struggling to get a steady idle, carbs set to factory with genuine jets etc and bench synced and the low compression concerned me a bit.  I'll get there, might take me delving into the engine which I've never done before.  Is it that costly to do a DIY top end rebuild?

Cost is down to what you find that needs replacing  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 27, 2023, 10:40:30 AM
I've just done a compression test again after trying to get it to idle and giving up, a fair amount of smoke and smelling really rich.

New results with all plugs out, and full throttle.  I think I'd left the choke on however.

Cylinder 1 - 125psi
Cylinder 2 - 110
Cylinder 3 - 120
Cylinder 4 - 110

I've turned the mixture screw in so it's now at a full turn out. Next plan is to let it cool down and check/adjust the valve clearances.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on August 27, 2023, 11:45:10 AM
A lot better than they were previously @ 70,75, 80, 82 ish.

Might be worth putting a few miles on her with some upper cylinder lubricant if it's not run for a while they might improve - nothing to loose.

If it turns out to be a bore/piston wear issue you really need to split the crankcases as new pistons can put extra load on the crank so best to check the big ends & main bearings.

Bryan here does rebores for 500/550's I think as well as Trigger so might be worth a couple of PM's for prices.

Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 27, 2023, 01:00:58 PM
It's not roadworthy enough yo put miles on sadly Ted, the rear hub is buggered and I can get it to idle without stalling as yet.  Just done the valve clearances and I think I should check the set up of the Dyna S ignition to be sure it's not set incorrectly.  Not sure how it's set up but I'll do a google
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 27, 2023, 05:10:36 PM
Why isn't there enough adjustment in my electronic ignition?  To set a timing light to come on t the F mark with the advance at full it won't rotate far enough.  I'm a bit stumped
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on August 27, 2023, 05:19:25 PM
You can do the Dyna S like points statically or dynamically.
Okay without going back over your post have you cleaned the carbs & bench synched them?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 27, 2023, 05:29:24 PM
Can't remember which it is now but one electronic ignition is set at full advance. So rev to 4k and set it there and see if that works better
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 27, 2023, 06:24:50 PM
https://www.google.com/search?q=set+up+a+dyna+cb550&rlz=1C1YTUH_en-GBGB1002GB1002&oq=set+up++a+dyna+cb550&aqs=chrome..69i57j33i160l2.11336j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:7c85c45c,vid:q7oy8RSB9Vs
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 27, 2023, 06:35:46 PM
Yep carbs are refurbed and synced as close as I could get them.  I think I've been using the wrong mark🤭, it's easy to be set to the very far right mark with the advance at full where as I'd been setting it to the F.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 27, 2023, 07:29:05 PM
All sorted, still sounds like a bag of nails though and stinking rich😬  I get the feeling it's going to,need open heart surgery.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 27, 2023, 07:32:21 PM
 glad you got that one sorted.
You will find you need to strip the whole engine down and be prepared for some surprises  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Nurse Julie on August 27, 2023, 07:34:43 PM
Are you turning the air / fuel mix screw the right way?. Out for more air = leaner, in for more fuel = richer.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 27, 2023, 07:54:19 PM
I've taken a video of it running, not sure it will upload on here but it doesn't sound smooth at all, my xs650 sounds smoother!  When I drop the revs to around 1100 it starts to sound a bit clanky.  I very much doubt that the previous owner had it running and went round the block like he claimed when he last used it, more like he stopped running it due to what I'm hearing.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 27, 2023, 07:55:32 PM
Are you turning the air / fuel mix screw the right way?. Out for more air = leaner, in for more fuel = richer.

My bad! Yeah I turned it in rather than out by mistake
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Nurse Julie on August 27, 2023, 08:06:35 PM
Are you turning the air / fuel mix screw the right way?. Out for more air = leaner, in for more fuel = richer.

My bad! Yeah I turned it in rather than out by mistake
Yea, that's what I guessed 😊😊😊
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 27, 2023, 09:11:50 PM
Short of biting the bullet and stripping it down are there any tests I can do to detect what sort of wear I might have?  I think I know the answer to this one!  One thought I have had, could it be a weak or intermittent spark causing the roughness and therefore the smoking/smelling rich? The HT leads are pretty rigid and the coils a bit knackered looking.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on August 27, 2023, 09:31:49 PM
My brief experience with coils is to look at where the HT leads just exit the coil if the outer insulation is cracked then they are probably part of the problem.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 28, 2023, 09:00:19 AM
I'm going to order some new ht lead and caps (plugs are new non resistor type) and do the 'Ash fix' on the coils to rule that out as a possible cause.  Could the carb sync being out be enough to cause it to sound so bad?  Going to get a load of airline to perform a carb sync as well and see where that leaves me, if all this doesn't solve it it is at least nothing lost and I can move on to looking at a rebuild.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 28, 2023, 09:03:04 AM
If the carbs are not all balanced correctly, the engine will sound ruff  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 28, 2023, 09:05:43 AM
In my haste I've only become synced,
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 28, 2023, 09:19:47 AM
If the clunking is that bad, you will find that the primary chain and rubbers are well past its best  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 28, 2023, 09:27:35 AM
To be honest I'm a bit excited by the idea of splitting it, I've got room on the kitchen table now the carbs are back together too 🤣
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on August 28, 2023, 11:28:14 AM
If you are going to split i suggest getting as many parts as possible first.
Gasket set
Oil seal set
Primary chain (kawasaki)
Cam chain, see oddjob
Primary damper rubbers x 8 Honda and not cheap
Possibly cam chain tension blade
Probably cam chain cushion
Maybe pistons/rebore

Bank loan
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on August 28, 2023, 07:24:11 PM
If you split the casing you're looking at a potential budget of £1k plus a tad more if you need some gearbox bearings as well. These old bikes are like black holes with costs.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on August 28, 2023, 07:40:57 PM
Check for bent valves and cracked valve guides  ;) And they are not cheap if you can get them .
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 28, 2023, 10:53:39 PM
I'm prepared for it to be expensive, that's not really an issue as I'm in no rush and will be doing the work myself as far as I can.  Having turned the air mixture screw out to factory setting again I began syncing the carbs with some cheap ebay vac gauges and got it running a whole lot better and quieter.  Family life then intervened so I still need to finish tweaking but I think I'm getting somewhere.  Bit of a weep coming from the head gasket though!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 31, 2023, 09:41:16 AM
I've bitten the bullet and bought a Morgan Carbtune so I'll get the carbs balanced on the weekend.  Is there a recommended setting for the throttle stops? 
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on August 31, 2023, 01:20:56 PM
Depends what you mean by throttle stops
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on August 31, 2023, 03:51:21 PM
Depends what you mean by throttle stops

I've just got a Haynes manual today which says 56mm. This is what I was referring to Ken
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 02, 2023, 03:19:51 PM
I think this engines not well, far too much blue smoke and I can't get the it to idle well enough to balance the carbs even. I just can't work out what to do next.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 02, 2023, 03:44:06 PM
Strip the head and barrels off.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 02, 2023, 03:52:32 PM
Strip the head and barrels off.

Yes I think so Ken, to be honest it's got an oil lea from the head gasket that needs sorting so I'm going to be going in there at some point so might as well now.  Also a few times after turning it off the exhaust has made a king of vacuum stuck back noise, what's that?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 02, 2023, 03:58:24 PM
Sounds like either a bent valve or a really bad valve seat problem, so it's pulling air down the exhaust due to the poor seal.

Don't forget to replace the valve stem seals whilst you have the head off.

I suspect you'll find rings stuck in the grooves on the piston as well
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 02, 2023, 04:29:46 PM
Ken, do you remember offering any more help I might need? 😉   I might be asking a few questions
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 02, 2023, 04:45:45 PM
Its either been stood too long with a valve open, or the cam cover has not been reassembled to the head carefully enough and a valve stem got bent!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 02, 2023, 04:49:18 PM
Someone's been in there before me, theres dodgy red gasket sealant on the cases which can't be a good sign.  I've never fully stripped an engine before, now I know you are all going to say pull the whole engine and strip it fully but could I pull the head and barrels in the frame and see what I find before going any further.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 02, 2023, 05:04:23 PM
Yup, its easier to do that way as it makes the lump lighter.
The full honda 500/550 manual is in either Ashs dropbox or alladins cave so download it and read, especially the bit about refitting cam cover!!!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 02, 2023, 05:52:43 PM
If any valves are bent Dom, get a magnify glass and check that non of the valve guides are cracked. Even a small hairline crack will open up once the engine has warmed up  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 02, 2023, 06:17:39 PM
Thanks all, I've got the rocker off following several guides, I'm labelling everything and sticking bolts through labelled card to remember their positions for reassembly.   I'll post some photos later
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 02, 2023, 06:25:04 PM
Thanks all, I've got the rocker off following several guides, I'm labelling everything and sticking bolts through labelled card to remember their positions for reassembly.   I'll post some photos later

I love pictures of the insides of engines. That is what made my job so interesting, you would never find the same problem once stripped down  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 02, 2023, 07:28:35 PM
For now in going to call it a day, the head won't come off the barrels and it's beer o'clock
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on September 02, 2023, 07:51:36 PM
My 400 head was well stuck on Iirc I sprayed all around the edges of the head gasket with Plus Gas then used a big Rubber mallet to give it some side shock. Lastly I used a plastic double glazing wedge to persuade it to separate.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 02, 2023, 08:03:28 PM
Here's what I've found so far...  the rockers are nice and clean but there is some scoring to the surfaces in the head and on the camshaft, some is visible but can't be felt with a nail.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 02, 2023, 08:33:58 PM
Nowt wrong with that cam
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 02, 2023, 08:37:11 PM
Nowt wrong with that cam

That's a relief Bryan,  I'm  not sure if I want to find any other issues that answer my problems or whether a clean bill of health would be good.  Either way I'll be fixing a head gasket leak so it's all positive!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 02, 2023, 08:46:38 PM
Has some pitting on number 3 inlet lobe, the journals are a little tramlined as well, depends a lot on how the journals are underneath on the head TBH. Post a pic of the rocker arms and the camcover as well, but before you do anything remove the tacho drive, CAREFULLY. It's breaks for fun, right where it meets the top of the camcover, a lot of the time only the bolt is holding it together. Push from underneath rather than try to lever it out. If it's intact store it carefully. They are expensive to replace and VERY easy to break if left in the cover.

The cam can be re-profiled if there is more pitting on the lobes.

The dreaded instant gasket has made an appearance, haven't seen that stuff for a long while now. Very common in the 80s.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 02, 2023, 08:47:33 PM
Ken, do you remember offering any more help I might need? 😉   I might be asking a few questions

Feel free, my favourite engine the 500/550.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 02, 2023, 08:48:56 PM
Dont remember seeing where you are located apart from uk, which whilst smaller than us still covers a big area
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 02, 2023, 08:54:46 PM
Ken, do you remember offering any more help I might need? 😉   I might be asking a few questions

Feel free, my favourite engine the 500/550.

Thanks Ken! I'm enjoying it at the moment. The tacho drive that screws into the rocker cover? It came out easily

Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 02, 2023, 08:55:55 PM
Dont remember seeing where you are located apart from uk, which whilst smaller than us still covers a big area

Good old Herefordshire, right on the Welsh border just outside a town called Kington.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: K2-K6 on September 02, 2023, 08:56:34 PM
Nowt wrong with that cam

That's a relief Bryan,  I'm  not sure if I want to find any other issues that answer my problems or whether a clean bill of health would be good.  Either way I'll be fixing a head gasket leak so it's all positive!

What about the holes / inclusion on the lobe nearest the sprocket flange in 3rd photo  ? Looks like a good cheddar on my screen   :o
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 02, 2023, 09:14:23 PM
Yeah, that's what I spotted, number 3 inlet lobe. Showing some pitting, you need to check the other lobes for the same type of damage Dom. Also check the rocker that runs on that lobe for damage that pitting may have transferred to it. You should have a 550F type rocker cover, we need to check that's the case as they can be swapped and sold and fitted with a 500 cover. The 550 is the better type of over as the rocker shafts were pegged to stop them rotating and ovaling the holes out in the cover body. However the pegged shafts are prone to premature wear so maybe think about removing those as well.

Don't hammer the cylinder head fins to get it unstuck BTW or you'll break them. 2 small bolts fitted front and rear of the cam tunnel as well, make sure they are out. Use a rubber mallet or better still what is called a Compothane hammer, which is like a plastic hammer but the head is filled with lead shot so it gives a real dead blow which tends to shock stuff loose but without breaking it.

Like this.

https://www.screwfix.com/p/magnusson-dead-blow-rubber-mallet-35oz-0-99kg-/3081V?kpid=3081V&cm_mmc=Google-_-Datafeed-_-Tools?kpid=KINASEKPID&cm_mmc=Google-_-TOKEN1-_-TOKEN2&gclid=Cj0KCQjwusunBhCYARIsAFBsUP8616XTHja4_0HC5RPXdGZ7TOykNRarRGVFWQZhGP1N4kUKdpvza2kaAu5FEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 02, 2023, 09:19:34 PM
I'll get some photos of the rocker lobes tomorrow but they all looked really good to me, I did notice the blemishes on the one lobe.  I really appreciate everyone's help on this, proper like minded community spirit!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 02, 2023, 09:25:00 PM
Yes its pitted but seen worse, if you are going balls outfull race needs replacing, if, like most of us, it will do maybe 2,000 a year it will last forever.
The followers are hardened the lobes are not
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 02, 2023, 09:26:10 PM
If worse comes to worse you can always get the cam redone at Newmans. Maybe have it re-profiled to suit the engine better, a few degrees more overlap, a few degrees more duration for example really wake this engine up midrange. Cost is the same as just having it done to standard. It's about £100-120 plus VAT plus P&P.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: K2-K6 on September 02, 2023, 09:59:09 PM
Interested to see what the rocker faces look like. Wear from these component will often be too small (sub 5 ~10 micron ) to be trapped by conventional oil filters, that's what makes the "tramlines" in plain bearing surfaces by getting trapped in soft part of those bearings next time round, crankshaft assembly too.

Originates in oil condition during previous running, too long interval and fuel dilution. Cam lobe and followers always show this first due to highest pressure exerted on oil film at this site location.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 02, 2023, 10:30:17 PM
I quite like the idea of a bit of cam reprofiling, if I find everything else to be in good order I may go down that route.  In terms of top end gasket and o-ring kits, where is best to get them? 
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 02, 2023, 11:19:27 PM
Always try and source a genuine top end gasket kit. Quality is far superior. Not exactly an abundance of them these days though.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 02, 2023, 11:24:36 PM
I quite like the idea of a bit of cam reprofiling, if I find everything else to be in good order I may go down that route.  In terms of top end gasket and o-ring kits, where is best to get them?

Vesrah are a top kit and you will need more than a top end set  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 03, 2023, 11:30:38 AM
I've got it stripped down and barrels off, I think at this point pictures will speak a thousand words, some good, some not so.  Here goes, I've not got a valve spring compressor so that bit will have to wait.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 03, 2023, 11:32:24 AM
There's more
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 03, 2023, 11:35:32 AM
Apologies for the picture heavy content!

Cylinder 4, the small end bearing has some wiggle but the rest all seem fine from my very basic checks, all piston rings were free but the barrels don't look great do they?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 03, 2023, 01:44:25 PM
Things I've noticed are the pitting on 3x tappet adjuster screws, some rough and raised edges on two of the puck recesses, pitting to the valve side of the head, the bores are a little scored and one has an inclusion or something.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 03, 2023, 01:57:56 PM
Looks like your in for a long winter getting that back to top condition. Tappets are cheap but, I can see where they have chipped away at the top of the valves.
Cam lobes don't look good and it will need a rebore with oversize piston kit at 0.50 or more  ;)
Cam chain guides look like any old guides and you always replace them.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 03, 2023, 02:22:51 PM
It's just the one lobe not that that makes things better, it's all doable I presume though and there's really no rush on my part.  Would I be best asking one of you to do any machining I need doing or look for somewhere near me and I'll need to as you all for advice on what a rebore entails such as new pistons etc.   Don't get me wrong when I say this but I'm looking to make it reliable and doing what's necessary but not spending where I don't need to. 
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 03, 2023, 02:32:20 PM
Bryan J is close to you and he has a boring bar, knows the spec and knows were he can get a piston kit from  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 03, 2023, 02:53:23 PM
What's the barrel itself like Dom, any chipped fins etc. I'm thinking maybe replace the liners and rebore those so you can say just do an 0.25 overbore and save the rest for later, if ever.

Oversize pistons available at Cruzinimage pretty cheap and they seem ok from reports. Maybe check to see what the barrels clear up at before ordering. Either with new liners or with the old ones.

I may have some tappet adjusters. The valves with the damage may be able to be dressed up.

Got to say some of the rings look stuck in the grooves in a couple of the pics. Clearly 3 and 4 were not running well.

Head looks ok, camshaft journals not too bad. Rocker box is 550.

One thing I did notice, there appear to be springs fitted against the rocker arms, the 400 got similar but not the 550 to the best of my knowledge.

The camchain tensioner doesn't look bad, maybe check it's moves freely and replace the slipper if it does. The metal part should look straight from top to bottom, most seem to have a bend in them from bad fitting when amatuers take them apart. Check it's straight.
The camchain guide looks normal TBH, I've never replaced one of those unless it was damaged, usually bent.

With the state of the engine, clearly due to badly contaminated oil, I'm sort of dreading what the cranks shells are going to look like. Let's hope I'm wrong and they are fine.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 03, 2023, 03:09:49 PM
Thanks Trigger, I'll send Bryan a pm.

Ken, the barrels have a couple of bits of fin damage but pretty inconspicuous and ill be painting it if all goes to plan.  Your correct there are springs on the rockers, should they not be there?  Very small marks to two valves but I've also noticed a chip on the cm chain adjuster retaining bolt hole.

No stuck ppiston rings Ken, they are all free but thats immaterial i guess what with the bore wear, tensioner looks OK for straightness too. You're all suggesting I split the cases then, I'm dreading that bit, I can't get the kickstart off the splines for a start😫
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 03, 2023, 03:11:03 PM
Recently i have had a lot of my old barrels not clean at 0.25 as the liners have been egg shaped, so worth checking bore before ordering pistons.
You can call me on 07795162623 Monday to Thursday inclusive after 8pm when i am at work driving
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 03, 2023, 03:22:50 PM
Remove the pinch bolt on the kickstarter and force a screwdriver or a chisel into the slot, that should expand the slot and allow the arm to come off.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 03, 2023, 03:42:04 PM
Remove the pinch bolt on the kickstarter and force a screwdriver or a chisel into the slot, that should expand the slot and allow the arm to come off.

I tried that Ken, I'll be a bit more gung-ho!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 03, 2023, 06:04:37 PM
Recently i have had a lot of my old barrels not clean at 0.25 as the liners have been egg shaped, so worth checking bore before ordering pistons.
You can call me on 07795162623 Monday to Thursday inclusive after 8pm when i am at work driving

It is one of the mistakes that a lot of owners buy pistons at .25 and only 10% ever do clean up mate. 
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 03, 2023, 07:29:44 PM
Yup, im finding them barrell shaped, fine at top and bottom but dont touch in middle, never found a step at the top yet though
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 03, 2023, 07:41:20 PM
Yup, im finding them barrell shaped, fine at top and bottom but dont touch in middle, never found a step at the top yet though

It is a fine art with liners mate and can be a lot of work. Had a 750 set once that had water sitting on top of two pistons for years.
Re-bored to  0.45 and then to 0.75 and then 0.95 and you could still see the marks. Pushed the liner out and it had gone all the way through  :o Then had to go down the road of putting another liner in and skim up the barrels  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 03, 2023, 07:53:49 PM
Am I right in thinking I'm doing the right think here, I'm not chasing a lost cause? 
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Nurse Julie on September 03, 2023, 08:16:52 PM
Am I right in thinking I'm doing the right think here, I'm not chasing a lost cause?
You won't know until you have fully stripped the engine, measured and assessed everything, priced up all the parts needed and costed the machine work.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 03, 2023, 09:14:01 PM
Let's remain positive folks🤣
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 04, 2023, 11:44:30 AM
This week I'm hoping to find time to split the cases, is there anything I should be aware of when I do this?  I'll be following the shop manual and some YouTube videos to guide me.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 04, 2023, 12:20:22 PM
If you have the puller take the alternator rotor off the crank whilst still assembled, easier than chasing crank arround the bench.
There is one odd 10mm headed bold hidden away everybody forgets.
You dont need a puller for the primary shaft, remove the oil pump and use a SOFT drift on the end you can see in the hole AFTER removing the retainers at clutch side.
Keep all the shells exactly where they came from as there is no way of identifying size if mixed up
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 04, 2023, 02:36:45 PM
The primary shaft is easily removed by using the step bar bolt, the one the riders footrests thread onto.

Remove the bolt, leave a nut and washer on one end, thread on one of the footrests so the rubber end protrudes past the nut and washer. Thread the bar into the end of the primary shaft and use the footrest like a slide hammer It will pull out very easily as a rule.

Catch the spacer as it drops out from between the starter ring and the bearing.

Remove as much as you can before removing engine, points and advance unit, rotor as Bryan describes, clutch and chain sprocket, oil filter housing and oil pan and mesh filter. Get the engine as light as possible, you can get it out of the frame a lot easier that way.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 04, 2023, 04:24:59 PM
That sounds a good plan Ken, I think this will be a steep learning curve!

I'm still not entirely sure I know in what order to remove bits yet, I think I need to watch it being done a few more times and read through the shop manual again
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on September 04, 2023, 05:42:51 PM
You will get the hang of it Dom once you have removed pretty much everything from either side of the engine, top & bottom it gets easier. As has been said best to remove the alternator rotor then it's casing bolts in order. The primary drive shaft is easier to remove than it sounds - iirc I used some long drifts to knock the bearing out then look for the hidden bolt that stopping the cases from separating.

Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 04, 2023, 06:03:12 PM
The hidden bolt is inside the sump IIRC.

Just take parts off and store them together, maybe take a pic of the area first so you can see what it looked like if you get lost. Take points cover off, take the bolt out of the middle of the big nut, that will allow the nut to come off, put everything inside the points cover first off, then remove the 3 screws holding the points plate on, disconnect the wiring and remove plate, then advance/retard mechanism. First job done, put everything in sealable plastic bags, maybe a label, maybe not. Keep areas  together, points in one bag, rotor in another, clutch in another etc. You'll soon get used to it.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on September 04, 2023, 06:59:35 PM
Ken is right about labelling and putting parts together in bags or boxes.

I use old takeaway boxes to group bolts etc together then write on the lid where they came from take plenty of pics on your phone as well it helps with assembly some months later. Even when it's obvious where something was take a photo as it might not be obvious a week or more later.

For the engine casing bolts I use a piece of cardboard labelled up then fit the bolts through the holes makes it easier for assembly, you may well have thought of this anyway so sorry if i'm being too basic. Yes I spelt dowel wrong & left the y out of empty where a bolt was missing iirc.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53164673133_67eb42a836_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2oZYR6p)PXL_20230904_175427132 (https://flic.kr/p/2oZYR6p) by Macabe Thiele (https://www.flickr.com/photos/187487200@N03/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 04, 2023, 09:30:17 PM
The 500/550 is the easiest of the fours to work on, only two "specials" you need
1 rotor puller and an ht bolt with correct thred will work
2 clutch nut peg spanner and you can make one from an old socket and cutting disc
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 04, 2023, 09:30:57 PM
I did exactly this on the weekend when dismantling the topend Ted, seems the best way to ensure stuff goes back where it should.  Tonight I've had time to get get the points side all out, clutch cover and cluch eventually after a bit of a battle with the kick-start, and all of the left side as far as the big bolt on the stator.  It was getting too dark by then as I've been wheeling it out of the garage and under a gazebo for natural light, without an impact gun will getting that bolt out be easy enough because I can't see how to stop the crank spinning.

Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 04, 2023, 09:34:00 PM
The 500/550 is the easiest of the fours to work on, only two "specials" you need
1 rotor puller and an ht bolt with correct thred will work
2 clutch nut peg spanner and you can make one from an old socket and cutting disc

You beat me to it Bryan, I'll try to call you this week to try and get the ball rolling.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on September 04, 2023, 10:05:54 PM
With the block off you can pop a Gudgeon Pin through number one Conrod then use a wooden block on either side of the pin to hold the crank in place. At least I think that's what I did to undo the alternator nut.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 05, 2023, 05:29:41 AM
The 500/550 is the easiest of the fours to work on, only two "specials" you need
1 rotor puller and an ht bolt with correct thred will work
2 clutch nut peg spanner and you can make one from an old socket and cutting disc

Eh??? The 500/550 doesn't have a clutch nut Bryan, it's a circlip. You're confusing it with the 400 I think.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 05, 2023, 11:05:09 PM
I've had a look tonight and you're right Ken, there's a spring on the rocker shaft.  What the hell is that all about?!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 05, 2023, 11:28:09 PM
Should not have springs on the shafts Dom. Only fitted to the 350 and 400's. Looks like someone got confuse with the manual on the 550/400.  That is why your valve stems are chipped so much and you will have to replace any damaged valves  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 06, 2023, 07:23:10 AM
Oh crap, seems I've definitely bought a bit of a s####er, I'm a bit far in to give up now though
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 06, 2023, 07:40:53 AM
The Haynes manual covers both the CB400 and the CB550 in the same book and it looks like the previous owner has taken the information on the CB400 rockers and applied it to a CB550 engine  :o

On a CB400, if you have the springs on the wrong side of the rockers, you get the same result on valve stem chipping after some time  ;) 
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 06, 2023, 07:45:07 AM
If you look half way down this page on Julies thread on a CB400 you will see the springs on the shafts  ;)


https://www.sohc.co.uk/index.php/topic,14049.30.html
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 06, 2023, 07:57:26 AM
I'll take them off tonight then, looking at the shop manual there's nothing in their place which makes me wonder what takes up the slack?  I've written a list of bits I think I need at this stage-

Cam chain £35, Ken
Primary chain  £48.40, Kawasaki
Primary dampers £6.41 each, DSS
Vesrah full gasket set £94.80, DSS
oil seal set £?
Piston set, Cruizinimage or DSS
Cam chain dampers £10.69, DSS
Valve stem seals £24, DSS
Hondabond £20

Any opinions or additions to on that list so far?


Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 06, 2023, 08:37:24 AM
I'll take them off tonight then, looking at the shop manual there's nothing in their place which makes me wonder what takes up the slack?  I've written a list of bits I think I need at this stage-

Cam chain £35, Ken
Primary chain  £48.40, Kawasaki
Primary dampers £6.41 each, DSS
Vesrah full gasket set £94.80, DSS
oil seal set £?
Piston set, Cruizinimage or DSS
Cam chain dampers £10.69, DSS
Valve stem seals £24, DSS
Hondabond £20

Any opinions or additions to on that list so far?

Valve stem seals come in the gasket set Dom but, the head sealing rubbers (pucks) do not  ;)

Oil pump o'ring kit from julie.

You will not know until you fully assess what you need at the full strip stage but, any short cuts and these engines bit back  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 06, 2023, 10:21:28 AM
Should I be using plasti gauge on the conrod big ends
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 06, 2023, 10:30:48 AM
Should I be using plasti gauge on the conrod big ends

Yes, everything needs to be plasti-gauged up to work out all the clearances.
All gear box bearings need to be checked they are running feely and are not worn. The gear change dogs are with in spec and so on  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 06, 2023, 12:51:01 PM
Do you mean cam chain tens blade and cushion as dampers are little things that go in ends of tensioner
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 06, 2023, 12:55:07 PM
Yeah that's what I meant Bryan, the little dampers.

Best order some plasti gauge, what colour?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 06, 2023, 03:28:21 PM
I'll take them off tonight then, looking at the shop manual there's nothing in their place which makes me wonder what takes up the slack?  I've written a list of bits I think I need at this stage-

Cam chain £35, Ken
Primary chain  £48.40, Kawasaki
Primary dampers £6.41 each, DSS
Vesrah full gasket set £94.80, DSS
oil seal set £?
Piston set, Cruizinimage or DSS
Cam chain dampers £10.69, DSS
Valve stem seals £24, DSS
Hondabond £20

Any opinions or additions to on that list so far?

Vesrah kit seems damned expensive, the OE head kit includes valve stem seals BTW and TBH a full kit isn't that attractive. There are only a few gaskets in the bottom end kit and most of the time it's cheaper to buy them separately IF you need them. Rotor one for instance isn't an oil seal gasket, just a seal to keep water etc out. If it's not broken you can reuse that. TBH I've reused lots of gaskets in the past, so long as they come off intact why not. Or buy an OE bottom kit.

I have some of the camchain tensioner damper rubbers somewhere. NOS of course. I'd advise checking the tensioner itself, does the blade compress and expand smoothly, is the release bolt ok, screwdriver slot not deformed or even broken, more than a few are. Is the bottom part straight and damage free, you'd be amazed how many have been caught by the primary chain, the damage is easy to see.

Refrain from buying plastigauge, look at the crank first, assess what needs replacing. It's likely you're going to need new shells, you can order it then if you think you need it.

It's going to get expensive, try and keep the costs down as much as possible whilst buying good parts, you get what you pay for when it comes to engine parts. Most of the roller bearings are available cheaper than OE, same make, same bearing, buy them from Hendersons for example. Same for seals, just chek the old one and you'll see the size printed on it, input that into Google and far cheaper alternatives come up.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 06, 2023, 05:24:30 PM
If you just buy a top end gasket set, you will be missing the starter motor cover gasket, the clutch gasket, the alternator gasket, the points cover gasket, sump gasket and all the bottom end o'rings .
If you skimp on using old gaskets, you run the risk of an oil leak  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 06, 2023, 07:59:41 PM
Never changed the starter motor cover gasket, never changed the points cover gasket, almost never changed the oring for the sump.

Rotor gasket isn't oil tight, just water so you can make one if it rips coming off. Only one you might need to change is the clutch cover if that rips, I tend to slide a really thin Stanley knife blade down the gap once all the screws are out, normally got half off without them breaking and you can use them again then.

Orings are dirt cheap and readily available. Same for engine seals, I have most of the orings and quite a few of the seals as I buy them in quantity.

His bill will be high enough without buying parts that aren't always needed. For a few pound more he could source a genuine top and bottom gasket kit and get the right parts, no problem with the head gasket and the orings not sealing with genuine, orings are all the exact size as well. John Oldfield has 2 bottom end kits for £34 each. It's just a matter of searching hard and you can find them at the right prices generally.

If you feel like searching Dom, the part numbers are 06110-390-020 for the topend set and 06111-390-000 for the bottom end set. Have a look around, see if you can find a bargain, they are out there, getting harder to find admitably but still available.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 06, 2023, 11:58:34 PM
I had a bit of a deeper delve into my bike yesterday, the air box has been messed with to the point I'm not sure what's missing even when looking at the Cmsnl parts list.  I'm guessing lots of the parts aren't even available any longer which leaves a bit of a dilemma.

Can anyone advise me as to why I have two cut wires in the loom that have been connected seemingly the wrong way? Hopefully I've got the carb parts here to reassemble and bench sync and fuses on their way so I might be able to test the electrics by next week...who knows I might even get it started.




This is the part you need for the bottom of your air box Dom >>>> https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/355020970267?hash=item52a8e6191b:g:qzcAAOSwF8Nk-KJG&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAAwHvKo2rJus4LgdssI7kGjCt8xNFvDZkkQLL%2F3dC27wc96qT4KCMTLEUyfuOXsFaM9D%2B5IchmMOY2CKs0fKgdgBzl6m7YD5IdJUDvgxlrQovxO1zokbKr7zD3Ve1pXdZKgn7USjGsYDVk77mryw%2F%2BV7n%2F8N6TSOQ3K7EntaPaE1%2FufwdtEiFICxLaABemyOxC8dA7MII5NQHLckHv0%2F%2Frhb2qkUIC9w%2BboHMtGqHx2QYBbGECceSXtnBYJQPAAXbhqA%3D%3D%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR9yBoMvNYg
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 07, 2023, 07:28:25 AM
Thanks Trigger, for now I'm reserving all my funds for this damn engine.  What is the rotor thread for removal, m16 x 1.5?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 07, 2023, 08:01:24 AM
Thanks Trigger, for now I'm reserving all my funds for this damn engine.  What is the rotor thread for removal, m16 x 1.5?

That size is correct. Looks for a car wheel nut at that size, thread it in by hand attach a impact gun and it is off  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 07, 2023, 04:31:24 PM
If you've got other Hondas or are maybe planning to buy them in the future this is the tool I use.

It's a genuine Honda tool and works really well, never failed yet. I just find the right thread, thread it into the rotor and hit one of the cross pieces with a rubber mallet. It's not as cheap as a bolt but you don't need an impact driver.

https://www.davidsilverspares.co.uk/CB500K1-FOUR-1972/part_61715

The upside of buying genuine tools is they sell really well when you no longer need them, usually for more than you've paid as they are always going up in price. Plus they tend to make working on the bike so much easier, I have hundreds of genuine tools, pity your not closer, I could pop round and let you use them. You'd be able to borrow my valve compressor as well  ::)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 07, 2023, 05:25:04 PM
Thanks Ken, you'd be welcome as its getting on my eaves a bit.  Interestingly an M16 x 1.5mm bolt isn't the right size on this rotor the thread looks a bit smaller than 1.5mm comparing it to the bolt I've bought.  Genuine tool it might be then.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: K2-K6 on September 07, 2023, 05:37:51 PM
 :o Oh no, not thread pitch again  ;D
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 07, 2023, 05:42:03 PM
Someone must of buggered the thread Dom, you will have to use a pulley to get it off  ;)




[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 07, 2023, 05:47:01 PM
The thread looks clean as, could the bolt be 1.75mm?!

Plan B in action
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 07, 2023, 05:47:50 PM
I'll check the rotors I have off at present, thread the tool into them and then check the pitch and let you know.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 07, 2023, 05:51:28 PM
The thread looks clean as, could the bolt be 1.75mm?!

Plan B in action

Defiantly a 1.5, just tried it on 3 different ones. Unless they have put a 400 one on  :o
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 07, 2023, 05:55:43 PM
:o Oh no, not thread pitch again  ;D
[/quote



 ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 07, 2023, 05:58:22 PM
Just checked the Honda tool and they are all 1.5 pitch, the arms are marked 16, 18, 20, 22.

Check the bolt supplied to be 100% sure that's 1.5mm and they've not sent something else by mistake.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 07, 2023, 06:12:08 PM
I'll blame the bolt I got from my local tool hire shop, it cost me nothing as they couldn't be bothered to charge me for it.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 07, 2023, 06:32:23 PM
I'll blame the bolt I got from my local tool hire shop, it cost me nothing as they couldn't be bothered to charge me for it.

You can not any old bolt, if it snaps you will have another problem. The bolt needs to be high tensile and that is why a car wheel bolt is ideal  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Seabeowner on September 07, 2023, 06:40:52 PM
I used a bolt from a Fiat van. Got the end turned down like the real tool. No impact, so tighten, hit with mallet, tighten, hit with mallet and they pop off.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 08, 2023, 04:42:29 PM
I'll blame the bolt I got from my local tool hire shop, it cost me nothing as they couldn't be bothered to charge me for it.

You can not any old bolt, if it snaps you will have another problem. The bolt needs to be high tensile and that is why a car wheel bolt is ideal  ;)

It was high tensile
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 08, 2023, 04:46:01 PM
I've taken the rocker arms out to remove the springs that a previous owner had felt the need to fit, literally just cut up springs! Doesn't appear to be and damage caused
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 08, 2023, 05:33:00 PM
I am always shocked on a fair few engines that i have stripped and done an assessment report. Some have been complete horrors  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 08, 2023, 06:09:20 PM
Is there meant to be a small amount of side to side play in the rocker arms then?  I assume that's what they were trying to alleviate.

Rotor off tomorrow hopefully then I'll be able to see tge extent of the wear a bit more, fingers crossed!  Is there a point at which engine wear isn't salvageable, I might as well prepare myself🤣
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 08, 2023, 07:29:45 PM
Yes, cranks are not regrindable and broken cases are a problem but i,m sure between forum members we can get most stuff
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: K2-K6 on September 08, 2023, 07:39:37 PM
Yep, hoping your crank is not like an LP record for grooves  :o as that's one of the eventuality this oil and wear situation produces.

Fingers crossed for good outcome.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 08, 2023, 07:51:19 PM
🤞
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 09, 2023, 01:47:03 AM
Is there meant to be a small amount of side to side play in the rocker arms then?  I assume that's what they were trying to alleviate.

Rotor off tomorrow hopefully then I'll be able to see tge extent of the wear a bit more, fingers crossed!  Is there a point at which engine wear isn't salvageable, I might as well prepare myself🤣

All engines are salvageable, it is just down to cost  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 09, 2023, 08:40:38 AM
Received my replacement hub from Andy yesterday, it certainly looks like the correct part and a few measurements all match up and plenty of lining left so fingers crossed that's one thing sorted.  I'll wait until I get stainless spokes before relacing it, bigger fish to fry with the engine I think but at least while it's stripped I'll have the perfect opportunity to paint the cases etc.  Simoniz engine enamel or its Diuplicolor equivalent?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 09, 2023, 09:27:41 AM
I don't think I intend keeping the Motad exhaust and the seat (which I think isn't from an F) that came with my bike, are they worth much in fairly good condition?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 09, 2023, 01:17:05 PM
Not a vast amount but always worth something to somebody, dont be caught out by shipping charges if it stays in one piece
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 09, 2023, 03:36:17 PM
Is there meant to be a small amount of side to side play in the rocker arms then?  I assume that's what they were trying to alleviate.

Rotor off tomorrow hopefully then I'll be able to see tge extent of the wear a bit more, fingers crossed!  Is there a point at which engine wear isn't salvageable, I might as well prepare myself🤣

All engines are salvageable, it is just down to cost  ;)

I think the ones in the Titanic may disagree with you.  ::)

I wonder why they thought springs on the rockers a good idea? I can see them getting confused, the 400 has them, why hasn't mine, maybe I lost one? Maybe but you don't lose 8 of them so clearly they were never fitted.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 09, 2023, 03:49:35 PM
Couple of alternatives for you to consider Dom.

The 550F seat is rare, really rare. Not sure why but they are and when they do come up you get offered seats which TBH should be consigned to the bin. Pans are normally rusted out etc.

The 500 seat however is still available, even copies are going about these days but you can still find NOS ones if you are willing to wait and willing to pay for them. OR, a good second hand one might pop up. Same could be said about the 550F but IF a good second hand one comes up be prepared for a bidding war as everyone and his dog will want it.

The downside to fitting the 500 seat is that it doesn't fit the 550 tank, however if you change the tank to the 500 as well they should marry up quite well. The mounting points etc are the same. 500 tanks are easier to find as well and the sale of a good 550 tank should pay for one and leave a little left over. Personally I think the shape of the 500 tank is better as well.

Now the 550F seat had it's tools stored in it, the 500 has them in a tray above the air filter. Ditch the snorkel fitted to the 550 and fit the tray off the 500. Roo has one spare if needed.

The 550F original exhaust is almost unobtainable, so your never going to get a bike that is standard unless you win the lottery, so consider going near standard but without the expense. A Delkevic exhaust is available in stainless, so no rust, looks better than the Motad as well.

Just food for thought.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 09, 2023, 08:23:58 PM
Oh I may have not made sense before, I'm planning long term to fit one of the straight Delkevic exhausts and will make a cafe racer style seat so both parts on my bike will either be stored or sold to add to funds for this damned engine.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 10, 2023, 12:37:29 PM
This morning I've split the cases which were again stuck together with the red stuff (forget the name), I hope I'm not being overly optimistic here but it looks far better internally than I was expecting.  No scratching on the crank which although polished feels smooth across the face with a fingernail.  Primary and Cam chains are both past their best.  What does everyone think?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Nurse Julie on September 10, 2023, 12:57:45 PM
Lots of pitting on the shells and a gouge out of the left side.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 10, 2023, 02:17:17 PM
OK, so I need to be determining what colour shells I have fixed and replace all marked shells? The crank appears OK to me
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 10, 2023, 02:33:16 PM
Gear box dogs look fine. I would plasti up the shells as long as you run your finger nail across the crank journals and don't feel any grooves  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 10, 2023, 03:24:29 PM
Gear box dogs look fine. I would plasti up the shells as long as you run your finger nail across the crank journals and don't feel any grooves  ;)

Can't feel a thing Trigger, I'm not sure what step to take next to be honest...strip it all out and clean it up and check bearings?  From what I can see the primary chain hasn't either the casing at all.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 10, 2023, 03:34:06 PM
Far better than I expected Dom.

You need to rotate the gearbox and take another pic, although it looks fine in the pic posted there could be damage underneath we can't see.

Shells don't look that bad TBH, some minor pitting, most likely from contaminants in the oil sitting against the shell when it's been stood. Crank journal we can see looks ok.

Primary chain looks toast TBH, but check with the tank track test and see what it looks like then. Strip the engine completely, if nothing else it needs a really good clean.

Gear selectors look fine.

Anything sitting in the sump? little bits etc.

Looks like the dreaded red hermetite or instant gasket, really plastered it on either way.

Can you see the crank markings? the printed letters and numbers? What are the letters on the back of the lower crankcase as that will show what colours you should have fitted, well within 2 colours anyway.

Need more pics but looks good up to now.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 10, 2023, 04:57:20 PM
Again looks ok apart from dreaded rtv jointing which has killed many honda engined after blocking restrictor jets.
Take everything out, remove ALL the orange krap an thourouly clean everything.
I would plastigauge the crank and check clearance.
REMEMBER to keep all shells in the place they came from
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 10, 2023, 05:46:57 PM
Far better than I expected Dom.

You need to rotate the gearbox and take another pic, although it looks fine in the pic posted there could be damage underneath we can't see.

Shells don't look that bad TBH, some minor pitting, most likely from contaminants in the oil sitting against the shell when it's been stood. Crank journal we can see looks ok.

Primary chain looks toast TBH, but check with the tank track test and see what it looks like then. Strip the engine completely, if nothing else it needs a really good clean.

Gear selectors look fine.

Anything sitting in the sump? little bits etc.

Looks like the dreaded red hermetite or instant gasket, really plastered it on either way.

Can you see the crank markings? the printed letters and numbers? What are the letters on the back of the lower crankcase as that will show what colours you should have fitted, well within 2 colours anyway.

Need more pics but looks good up to now.

All conrods are marked E and 2, the lower crankcase is AABBB, all of the gears are clean when rotated, no chips or marks.  The sump had some fragments of hardened rubber that I assume must be from the camchain tensioner although there is a tiny bit missing from the nylon oil deflector (?) 

While I'm in here I think for the sake of £48 I might as well do the primary chain, clocks show 32k if I trust they are original, or the engine for that matter as I've not checked.  Replace al oil seals and bearings too?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 10, 2023, 06:50:37 PM
Again looks ok apart from dreaded rtv jointing which has killed many honda engined after blocking restrictor jets.
Take everything out, remove ALL the orange krap an thourouly clean everything.
I would plastigauge the crank and check clearance.
REMEMBER to keep all shells in the place they came from

Yes I'm moderately pleased with what I've found, glad I cracked it on too!  Looks like I'll be needing your cylinder reboring services Bryan, would it be jumping the gun to go ahead and get it to you?  IMD or David Silvers piston kits?  Obviously I'll hold off on them until you know how much oversize you have to go.

I'm still tempted by a cam reprofiling while it's all apart if it will be a worthwhile improvement, if my pocket allows!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 10, 2023, 07:12:57 PM
You can bring me or send the block, i dont do any blasting, cleaning or painting  thats down to you.
Put up a pic of the inside of the lower case and lets see how much the chain has et away, 550 usualy less than 500.
Mileage dont mean much on an old bike, it could have babied or totaly hammered, i know the primary dampers are as expensive as the chain but they will be rock hard now so need changing.
There will be markings on the crank for pin sizes but if you cant find them bring up the crank and i will mic it for you
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 10, 2023, 07:32:57 PM
You can bring me or send the block, i dont do any blasting, cleaning or painting  thats down to you.
Put up a pic of the inside of the lower case and lets see how much the chain has et away, 550 usualy less than 500.
Mileage dont mean much on an old bike, it could have babied or totaly hammered, i know the primary dampers are as expensive as the chain but they will be rock hard now so need changing.
There will be markings on the crank for pin sizes but if you cant find them bring up the crank and i will mic it for you

Ah don't worry I'm quite happy doing the clean and paint side of things😉  I'll definitely be doing the primary dampers, I'm a bit unsure what you mean by pin numbers?

Lower case has survived quite well I think.  Maybe I'll call you this week at the times you said now that i know better the state of things.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: K2-K6 on September 10, 2023, 08:00:04 PM
Agree that the bottom end assessment shows a pretty good condition overall.

Something weird about it as barrels upward are generally well worn, in big contrast to the bottom end. Looks almost like two different engines have been combined that have very different service history.

Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 10, 2023, 08:20:52 PM
Agree that the bottom end assessment shows a pretty good condition overall.

Something weird about it as barrels upward are generally well worn, in big contrast to the bottom end. Looks almost like two different engines have been combined that have very different service history.

I suppose that's always a possibility, the barrels are quite scored and from everyone's views on here I feared I'd find a right mess.  I feel a lot more positive and about it now.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 10, 2023, 08:44:52 PM
I'm not so sure Nigel, the damage to the liners could be because of water damage etc rather than wear.

You can see where the primary chain has worn partly through the main oil gallery but you can also see it's rubbed on where the camchain tensioner goes as well, which makes sense of why I'm finding so many damaged at the very bottom. It's even worn a slight groove higher up, clearly it's been lashing around.

If you look closely at the crankshaft Dom you'll find some printed numbers and letters, exactly like the ones you can see on the rods. They can be very hard to see, washing the crank in petrol can help. They are all in a line, so if you find one you should be able to see the others without turning the crank.

Yours crankcase letters are good, the A's can only be yellow or green and the B's can only be green or brown. So no blacks, which is good news.

IF you were going to replace them I'd go with 4 greens in the A journals and 6 Browns in the B journals.

You need to split the rods now and check how those shells have lasted.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 10, 2023, 09:03:46 PM
Thanks Ken, that's good news then re the shell colours.  Are we thinking I need to plastigauge all shells on the crank and conrod then?  excuse my ignorance but what colour or range should I get?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 10, 2023, 10:47:17 PM
Well I’m not thinking that. If I could see appreciable wear then maybe I’d recommend that. But I don’t see wear, some slight damage but that’s from contamination.

Now you can either reuse your existing ones or change them for new ones, that’s your choice, remember though that there are 18 shells and most are around £15-20 each, so the best part of £300-400, Then a pair of chains and damper rubbers, another £150. Then gaskets, seals, orings, roller bearings etc.

Not cheap eh
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 10, 2023, 10:50:01 PM
By pins i meant crank pins i.e. big end and mains, sorry i was talking machinist!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 10, 2023, 11:00:20 PM
Forgot to say if you do want to reprofile the cam i have i just picked up from a member in cheltenham who is leaving for portugal and it has slight wear on one lobe so ideal to send away and keep your standard one if in good nick
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 10, 2023, 11:28:11 PM
I asked Newman cams if they could reprofile a rocker arm and they said yes, they hard chrome them then grind back to original shape, never knew they did that.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 10, 2023, 11:33:05 PM
I would strip the crank down to clean out all the traps as that sealant gets everywhere. Once all cleaned, plasti to see if any of the shells are worn. If it is to spec, you should be good to go with the crank and rods  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 10, 2023, 11:48:22 PM
I'll strip the crank tomorrow evening once I've ground a socket down to fit the conrod nuts, im concerned the small end on cyl 4 conrod might be worn, it feels looser tha the other three.

 
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 11, 2023, 01:25:39 PM
Rods were originally fitted with either green or brown shells Dom. Which is good news as those are easy to find. IF you need them of course.

IF you end up having to replace a rod you'll need to find another with the weight code E on it. Might be easy, might be hard.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 11, 2023, 05:11:23 PM
I can't make any sense of the crank markings, would they all be same across the entire crank?  I forgot to pick up a socket to grind down today as well so I'm at a bit of a loose end tonight
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Deano400 on September 11, 2023, 05:42:29 PM
Like these markings in yellow Dom. Ignore the red marks.
[attach=1]
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Deano400 on September 11, 2023, 05:43:16 PM
This is a good example. More often very difficult to see.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 11, 2023, 06:01:57 PM
This is a good example. More often very difficult to see.
 

Thanks matey, I can see the marks just not able to work out what they say as mine are black.  I've butchered one of my 6 sided 12mm sockets now so I've had the conrods off, all looks good on the shell faces and crank.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 11, 2023, 07:36:32 PM
The 400 tended to get white marks and the 500/550 black ones. Those are really clear John. Can't mistake those.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on September 11, 2023, 07:42:31 PM
If 550 conrods are the same as 500  ones I have a set going spare - just postage cost if it helps.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Deano400 on September 11, 2023, 08:04:14 PM
The 400 tended to get white marks and the 500/550 black ones. Those are really clear John. Can't mistake those.

The 400s are hard enough to see after 40 years, I guess the 500/550 must be nigh on impossible,
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Nurse Julie on September 11, 2023, 08:27:43 PM
The very early 750/4 crank markings are in Japanese and you have a translation document to use 😱😱😱😱. Most of the time the Japanese markings are so feint, you can't decipher them at all.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 11, 2023, 08:56:08 PM
If 550 conrods are the same as 500  ones I have a set going spare - just postage cost if it helps.

Thanks Ted, that's very generous of you.  I'm still trying to work my way through it all at the moment so may take you up on the offer. 

All the roller and needle bearings feel smooth, am I OK to reuse or should I be replacing them at this stage? 

I need to decide on the most cost effective way of buying the gasket sets and oil seals.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 11, 2023, 09:01:19 PM
Depends what marks are on them Ted, not the letter but the number. If they are all number 2 then they'll be fine and he can reuse existing shells.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 11, 2023, 09:13:28 PM
You can not go by crank markings as, the markings are for a new crank and not a worn one. Everything needs to be measured and matched. All con rods have a weight in grams and must match and that goes for pistons also  ;)

 
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 11, 2023, 09:15:25 PM
I disagree. So long as the crank doesn't show wear it will be fine.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 11, 2023, 09:25:28 PM
The eyes lie to people that don't know what to look for but, measuring up is the only way to get a accurate measurement.
I would never build a customers engine and assume that it looks OK  :o 
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 11, 2023, 10:32:29 PM
Only problemGraham its only old sods like me and thee that can read a mic accurately, and know how to zero it!
For home mechanics plastigauge is a boon but can get expensive on shells
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 11, 2023, 11:37:10 PM
Only problemGraham its only old sods like me and thee that can read a mic accurately, and know how to zero it!
For home mechanics plastigauge is a boon but can get expensive on shells

I always wondered why i have that big tool box full of measuring equipment. Next time you do a rebore, as long as the piston fits in the hole it should be fine mate  :o :o :o
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on September 11, 2023, 11:50:34 PM
Depends what marks are on them Ted, not the letter but the number. If they are all number 2 then they'll be fine and he can reuse existing shells.

Might be difficult to find a Conrod of the same number - could it just be a worn Gudgeon Pin causing the problem?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 12, 2023, 02:16:49 AM
I can do you a set of 4 rods if you need them, would have yo check codes on them
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 12, 2023, 04:49:04 AM
Only problemGraham its only old sods like me and thee that can read a mic accurately, and know how to zero it!
For home mechanics plastigauge is a boon but can get expensive on shells

That’s a completely condescending comment Bryan and frankly insulting to a lot of members. Using a micrometer isn’t hard and digital micrometers have a zero button these days.

I’ve build hundreds of engines and never ever used plastigauge, it’s not rocket science to spot wear. It doesn’t take years of experience to spot it either. Most members on here are more than capable of tackling these engines, it’s insulting that you seem to suggest that only you can do these simple engine rebuilds. It’s not got VTEC, it’s not a V4, it’s a extremely simple design that almost everybody can get their head around.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 12, 2023, 08:11:28 AM
So going back to my last question-

Is it good practice to replace all needle, roller bearings in the gearbox etc or if they are smooth with no play can they be reused?

If I were to plastigauge what colour should I use, from looking I think red?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 12, 2023, 08:20:20 AM
They can be reused if still good and the best way to spot if they do need replacing is have a good look at were they run on the gear box shafts. They show signs on the shafts first  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: AshimotoK0 on September 12, 2023, 08:28:39 AM
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/404405436283?mkevt=1&mkcid=1&mkrid=710-53481-19255-0&campid=5338365712&toolid=20006&customid=EB151264548&
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 12, 2023, 08:59:19 AM
Ken, in no way was it meant that way, its not condescending as most builders on here have not had the experience of using micrometers and verniers are just not accurate enough.
It is my opinion that standard micrometers are not accurate enough to measure the very small differences in pin tolerance the Honda use.
I know originally they used air gauges that are accurate to the 4th decimal place in metric and i dont think there is a hand tool made that can be that good.
I can remember being taught in a big machine shop and every student got a different size when measuring the same practice piece, and all were different from the quoted size.
I am not as accurate as i used to be and on the last 400 was only certain that all the pins were the same size.

This was not meant to offend in any way and i would more have expected Graham to be upset at being call an old fart, but i did include me in that.
There are some excellant engineers on here but most seem to be home enthusiasts who i am more than willing to help out using whater expensive kit i have aquired over the past 50 years
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 12, 2023, 09:11:33 AM
It is not worth any member going out and buying the correct measuring equipment for 1 or 2 engines. I have lost count on how many members i have had in my workshop asking, if i could measure up everything so they know it is correct. And some i have found that they had at least one rod that was slightly oval. That would of all ended in tears if they had used it.  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 12, 2023, 10:08:40 AM
I agree Graham, by the time you have decent mics from 0 to 100mm(about 4, i dont like multi anvil ones) decent dti, bore gauge, what do you recon £500 retail?
When i used to do a lot of cars, mostly kent and essex fords, you could guarantee an oval rod if it knocked
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 12, 2023, 10:45:26 AM
I have had loads of rods that needed re claiming, which you can not see that they are out with the human eye over the years and quite a few twisted rods even on SOHC's.

As for the price of the correct measuring equipment it can be very expensive and take a lot of experience to use correctly.  ;) 
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on September 12, 2023, 12:31:21 PM
Not sure what is meant by reclaiming a con rod Graham?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 12, 2023, 02:25:20 PM
Not sure what is meant by reclaiming a con rod Graham?

I think the yanks call it resizing but, i have always known it as reclaiming. I use a Sunnen machine  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 12, 2023, 03:01:16 PM
Ted, normal a rod goes oval with the dimension across thr bolts staying standard and other way from rod o cap getting a bit bigger so you carefully take a small amount off the pads with bolt holes in then hone the hole circular again
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on September 12, 2023, 04:19:15 PM
That sounds an amazing process - presumably you can still fit an off the shelf bearing shell, I guess were talking a really small amount of metal removal.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Trigger on September 12, 2023, 06:17:29 PM
Yes, back to standard spec. And you have to do all the rods the same to keep the weight right  ;)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Seabeowner on September 12, 2023, 06:47:20 PM
Plastigage is cheap. But if you measure out of spec with the clearances and if you can't rely on the crank being as new then you have to buy (or borrow) a pair of new shells to do the measuring with.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 16, 2023, 03:48:46 PM
I've spent the morning plastigauging my crank, the results are very consistent. I won't bore you with every journal but they are to my eye identical across the entire crank, an enjoyable process!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 16, 2023, 04:54:00 PM
Cant remember spec, is that within?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 16, 2023, 05:04:16 PM
Cant remember spec, is that within?

Haynes says 0.02 to 0.048

My readings were when torqued to the lower end of the range
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 16, 2023, 05:15:49 PM
Clearance is fine then
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 16, 2023, 06:06:20 PM
Clearance is fine then

Thats a relief 🤪
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 17, 2023, 07:57:37 PM
Im putting together a DS order for gasket set, primary drive rubbers etc, I'm sure I've read any removed circlips must be replaced with new ones, one looks a Honda specific part but are the rest easily and cheaper to source from Ebay etc?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 17, 2023, 09:04:36 PM
Not the gearbox ones, use Honda. The rest should be ok.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 17, 2023, 09:31:28 PM
Do you mean I can reuse the ones under the clutch cover Ken?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 17, 2023, 10:53:04 PM
Advisable for new on kicstart shaft inside cases
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 18, 2023, 02:17:12 AM
No, I meant you can buy cheaper alternatives Dom, not reuse old ones. The ones on the gearbox shafts are special so need to be Honda ones, the rest of them should be ok to use copies. I'd certainly use a new one on the clutch basket for instance and on the kickstart shaft if removed. When you go to replace the primary damper rubbers you'll think you need to remove the 3 screws but IIRC it's just the circlip you need to remove to split it in half. Don't remove the screws unless you have to. Far too many fall out again afterwards.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 19, 2023, 03:28:29 PM
No, I meant you can buy cheaper alternatives Dom, not reuse old ones. The ones on the gearbox shafts are special so need to be Honda ones, the rest of them should be ok to use copies. I'd certainly use a new one on the clutch basket for instance and on the kickstart shaft if removed. When you go to replace the primary damper rubbers you'll think you need to remove the 3 screws but IIRC it's just the circlip you need to remove to split it in half. Don't remove the screws unless you have to. Far too many fall out again afterwards.

Interesting you should say that Ken, I thought they needed removing too (they dont) so set about taking them out with a JIS screwdriver, they were already loose but the staking prevented them from fully undoing by themselves. I'll be making sure they are tight and staked when I put it all together. 

The dampers when removed were pretty hard.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 19, 2023, 04:39:00 PM
When you fit the new rubbers you may think it's not going to go back together. A little silicon oil on them works wonders.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 19, 2023, 05:03:01 PM
When you fit the new rubbers you may think it's not going to go back together. A little silicon oil on them works wonders.

Oh that's good then, there was a very small amount of play in it
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 19, 2023, 06:37:41 PM
Before or after the new rubbers Dom.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 19, 2023, 09:34:58 PM
Before or after the new rubbers Dom.

With the old rubbers Ken, still waiting on my DS order due to a few backorder but my Cruizinimage pistons are on their way.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 21, 2023, 04:46:30 PM
My plan is to prep the engine ready for paint this weekend except for the barrels as they'll be going off to Bryan for some work.  There's not much paint left on them, just a bit of black remnants from a previously bad paint job so a bit of nitromors and a bit of scotchbriting should sort it.  I was going to use carb cleaner as a final pre paint prep then Simoniz vht aluminium silver paint followed my a 'Millyard bake'
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 21, 2023, 07:09:27 PM
I have a question, has anyone on here any experience with straightening bent fins?  I've got a few which are out of sight and minor enough that they can be ignored but two on the cylinder head are top left and obvious.  I've watched a few videos of warming with MAPP gas and carefully tweaking back, do I dare risk it before painting or just accept them as battle scars?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on September 21, 2023, 07:43:23 PM
Think of it as age related patina.👍
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Nurse Julie on September 21, 2023, 07:51:00 PM
If you don't get the heat just right, the alloy easily snaps. Best leave be unless you're doing a concours engine renovation.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 21, 2023, 08:13:02 PM
Ted and Julie, I think you're correct. Let's hope the temptation doesn't get the better of me!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on September 21, 2023, 08:22:12 PM
You will be well disgruntled if one snaps as NJ has warned you.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: K2-K6 on September 21, 2023, 08:22:45 PM
Agree if you're not confident, to leave it, as snapping a bit off will look worse.

If you waht to try something to feel what it moves like, an old / broken clutch lever of similar, clamp end in vice, put ring spanner on it and pull very slightly to tension load it, then heat with torch where you want it to bend, then you'll feel it yeald as the heat reaches critical point to let it move. No real increase in pressure, just as it comes in range you'll feel it start to soften enough so it moves easily.

Some use soap on surface to see it going brown as it approaches the right heat level too.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on September 21, 2023, 08:56:20 PM
Using soap as a temperature indicator that takes me back to the 1960s.👍👍👍
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 22, 2023, 07:54:26 PM
Well Cruizinimage have delivered, quite literally!  Ordered my pistons Sunday night, on my doorstep this afternoon.  I won't even get them to Bryan that quick!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Nurse Julie on September 22, 2023, 08:06:11 PM
Well Cruizinimage have delivered, quite literally!  Ordered my pistons Sunday night, on my doorstep this afternoon.  I won't even get them to Bryan that quick!
We have always found their delivery service excellent. On one occasion, I ordered a few piston / ring kits on the Tuesday lunchtime and they arrived Friday morning.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 23, 2023, 07:58:16 PM
Well Cruizinimage have delivered, quite literally!  Ordered my pistons Sunday night, on my doorstep this afternoon.  I won't even get them to Bryan that quick!
We have always found their delivery service excellent. On one occasion, I ordered a few piston / ring kits on the Tuesday lunchtime and they arrived Friday morning.

It is impressive Julie! I'm going to be needing some oil pump o rings when you're back.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Nurse Julie on September 23, 2023, 08:03:44 PM
Well Cruizinimage have delivered, quite literally!  Ordered my pistons Sunday night, on my doorstep this afternoon.  I won't even get them to Bryan that quick!
We have always found their delivery service excellent. On one occasion, I ordered a few piston / ring kits on the Tuesday lunchtime and they arrived Friday morning.

It is impressive Julie! I'm going to be needing some oil pump o rings when you're back.
OK Dom. Send me a PM as a reminder and I'll get back to you when I'm back home, (and everyone else that's sent me PM's whilst I'm on my holibobs). Many thanks
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 23, 2023, 08:08:16 PM
Today was project crankcases, I've had a few evenings to begin prep work on them so this morning was a cycle in the dishwasher then a dry out followed my a rub down with a scotchbrite.  Because of the lovely weather I was able to get them out in the sun, I made a cardboard box spray booth and hit them with multiple coats of Simoniz aluminium VHT paint that I'd been warming in a jug of hot water, masking up probably took as long as the prep. The finish is pretty good considering the weathered surface on my cases, I think they've been sand blasted due to the bare finish they came to me in and wonder if that might explain the top end wear?

Tomorrow is bake day so I'll fire up the gas bbq, is 2hrs enough at 200 degrees?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 23, 2023, 09:04:18 PM
Should I be replacing cylinder studs if they have a bit of rust and pitting on the shank?  I will get a pic up tomorrow.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on September 23, 2023, 09:20:06 PM
I suspect cylinder studs might be a nightmare to remove without breaking!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 23, 2023, 10:03:09 PM
I suspect cylinder studs might be a nightmare to remove without breaking!

My suspicions too Ted, mapp gas might help along with soaking in plus gas but maybe they might not need replacing if not too bad because the torque they are set to is actually quite low isn't it
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on September 23, 2023, 10:54:00 PM
Yes it is low compared to cars with steel heads!
3 out of my 8 exhaust studs snapped despite heat and a decent stood removal tool.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 23, 2023, 10:58:32 PM
Leave them alone they can be a real pig even with heat
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 23, 2023, 11:40:07 PM
Leave them alone they can be a real pig even with heat

I'll leave well alone then Bryan, the pitting is what concerned me.  I can just oil the updater a rub down its only a couple of the front studs.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 24, 2023, 11:08:49 AM
I've had a minor setback,  I fired up the bbq having had my cases warming overnight at around 20°C, set them in it at the lowest setting and have been gradually increasing it but I've got small bubbles forming. I did heat the cases through before paint but I'm guessing I still have gassing off?  Is the only option to strip and start again?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Nurse Julie on September 24, 2023, 11:50:40 AM
Yes, you will need to strip what you've applied and clean cases thoroughly. It's usually oil impregnated in the alloy that causes the blistering.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 24, 2023, 12:10:33 PM
Yes, you will need to strip what you've applied and clean cases thoroughly. It's usually oil impregnated in the alloy that causes the blistering.

I knew the answer really, my engine was bare alloy when I got it so there could be loads of oil etc absorbed into it.  I degreased, dishwashered it and scrubbed it with thinners so I'm not sure what more I could have done, I'm thinking it's remaining moisture rather than oil so I'll try baking the top half more slowly to see if a gentler temperature gradient helps.  I've got nothing to lose in trying and only time and a can of spray paint if it fails!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on September 24, 2023, 12:25:24 PM
I'm concerned by the mention of a dishwasher what detergent did you use as a normal dishwashing tablet attacks aluminium?

IIRC the paint needs 24 hours of air drying in the summer before heat treatment.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 24, 2023, 12:56:40 PM
I'm concerned by the mention of a dishwasher what detergent did you use as a normal dishwashing tablet attacks aluminium?

IIRC the paint needs 24 hours of air drying in the summer before heat treatment.

Everything I read says dishwasher tablets are fine, I hope they are !  There was no signs of any attack on the bare surfaces.  I've had them drying in an heated room close to an oil radiator for 24 hrs so should be well cured, interestingly the top half has been in the oven now for an hour and is up to 180 with no signs of bubbling so I think it may be the temps rose a bit quickly or i wasnt as thorough on my bottom half?

Oh and didt use salt as we'd run out anyway.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on September 24, 2023, 03:28:02 PM
I put an aluminium frying pan once in our dishwasher - it turned almost black in one full wash cycle, it ended up in the bin.👎👎👎
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Nurse Julie on September 24, 2023, 03:34:32 PM
Most dishwasher tabs are caustic based, and as Ted says, it makes alloy go black.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 24, 2023, 04:37:08 PM
Most dishwasher tabs are caustic based, and as Ted says, it makes alloy go black.

Well I think I must have dodged a bullet there as it looks no different to when it went in, just cleaner.  What does everyone use in theory dishwashers when doing this then, nothing I've read has suggested anything different.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on September 24, 2023, 07:59:31 PM
I heard of a dirty wiring harness going in a dishwasher with a dishwasher tablet.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 24, 2023, 10:34:31 PM
I heard of a dirty wiring harness going in a dishwasher with a dishwasher tablet.
I think I've read that on xs650.org,  I'm really hoping I've done no lasting damage now, there's certainly no visible damage.  I defiant recommend a gas bbq to bake though, it's no where near controllable enough and mine smoked leaving marks on the new finish with the lower half.  Top half came out of the oven having been raised to 200°c for 2hrs looking perfect, no sign of any micro bubbles, my parrot loved it because it meant he got to spend the day in the living room away from any dodgy fumes.  That paint stinks when baked!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 25, 2023, 08:09:48 AM
Nearly done with painting the crankcase etc, the minor disaster with the bubbling lower case seems to be resolved.  One thing I've been meaning to mention is the camchain wear on the sides of the case, I've not seem this mention as a place for wear before, is this normal?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on September 25, 2023, 08:52:12 AM
Not common, bring the tensioner complete with you when you come up and i will check it out for you
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 25, 2023, 09:26:59 AM
Not common, bring the tensioner complete with you when you come up and i will check it out for you

It explains the silvery non magnetic sump residue
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on September 27, 2023, 09:39:32 PM
I have a few questions regarding o rings that may not be in, or may need upgrading from the Vesrah full gasket set, namely the oil jet o rings that I've read may need to be thicker than those supplied and will I get the small o ring for the camchain guide mounting bolt?  I know I'll need new pucks (pontefract cakes) and oil pump orings from Julie. 

Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on September 27, 2023, 10:09:14 PM
The tensioner ring is 5.8 x 1.9mm Dom. Should be in the kit. Measure how thick the head gasket is first.

I can supply rings for the oil pump if you need them.

Will look for that lock washer etc tomorrow
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on October 03, 2023, 09:35:05 PM
I've ordered new bearings for the selector drum and primary shaft, two are easily removed but one on the primary shaft is really on there.  I think I've read Ken saying it can be rested in a loose vice and the shaft carefully tapped through, have I understood this correctly?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on October 03, 2023, 09:53:26 PM
Spot on, just open the vice wide enough for the shaft to move and tap the end.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on October 03, 2023, 10:36:30 PM
Thanks Ken, I was just surprised it was such a tight press fit compared to the other end
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on October 04, 2023, 04:21:21 PM
How much force is needed to get the bearing off? I've smacked the hell out of it, any more and I risk damage to the shaft end.  The bearing hasn't budged but is now probably not in great condition
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on October 04, 2023, 04:31:07 PM
All mine just fell off Dom. Try some heat and see if that helps. I have a few of the shafts if you bugger it up.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on October 04, 2023, 05:37:06 PM
All mine just fell off Dom. Try some heat and see if that helps. I have a few of the shafts if you bugger it up.

I'll get my mapp gas on it Ken
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on October 04, 2023, 06:00:22 PM
Bingo! Got it hot and off it popped with a big whack Ken, I tapped the new one home using a 21mm deep socket and then the last bit with an old 6205 bearing as a spacer to get the extra depth needed that the deep socket didn't have.  I think that makes sense but essentially a success.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on October 22, 2023, 08:10:48 AM
Yesterday I travelled to Bryan to pick up my .5mm rebored barrels, I assembled the bottom end when I got back using what I thought was the thinnest layer of Hondabond, maybe it was due to my garage being pretty cold but it was near impossible to brush on.  I ended up dabbing it on with my finger to get a thin covering.  When I torqued all bolts down I got a small amount of sealant squeeze out which is now concerning me, in my haste, ok it was excitement, I missed to hondabond the two crank end seals.  Do I need to split it an do it all again?

Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on October 22, 2023, 08:48:26 AM
Nope, it should be ok as long as case uo to edge of seal was done, seals are slightly oversize so should clamp ok.
As to sealant squeezing out a small amount is ok
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on October 22, 2023, 09:18:14 AM
It really was a tiny amount Bryan, I went to bed lastnight thinking I'd be having to split them again today.  I got the piston rings all fitted and all together on the conrods, really glad to see no play in the gudgeon pin on no4 cylinder like with the old piston and pin.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on October 22, 2023, 01:31:33 PM
Yesterday I travelled to Bryan to pick up my .5mm rebored barrels, I assembled the bottom end when I got back using what I thought was the thinnest layer of Hondabond, maybe it was due to my garage being pretty cold but it was near impossible to brush on.  I ended up dabbing it on with my finger to get a thin covering.  When I torqued all bolts down I got a small amount of sealant squeeze out which is now concerning me, in my haste, ok it was excitement, I missed to hondabond the two crank end seals.  Do I need to split it an do it all again?

I also  tried & failed to apply Hondabond with a brush even in the warm it was just too thick. In the end I wore a pair of disposable gloves, I would squeeze some Hondabond on the back of my left hand.

I then used my right forefinger to transfer small amounts of Hondabond onto the inverted upper crancase - this seemed to give me the thinest layer of sealant. Bearing in mind my three Groundhog days (http://www.sohc.co.uk/index.php/topic,23291.225.html) I became very well practiced in the art of thin film technolgy.

I can't claim this method of application was my idea NJ gave me the tip, probably from years of applying ointment during her years of Nursing.  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on October 22, 2023, 02:54:41 PM
I've always used the fingertip dab method, seemed logical to me at the time in order to get a thin film.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on October 25, 2023, 07:43:05 PM
This weekends slow progress, I got down into the pub by my brother in law so that halted things. 
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on October 25, 2023, 09:06:00 PM
I would pop some grease on those stud threads Dom.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on October 25, 2023, 09:35:08 PM
I would pop some grease on those stud threads Dom.

Bryan suggested I didn't put anything on the threads as it mucks with torque settings.  Might have a bit of a hold up with my barrels now though.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on October 25, 2023, 10:34:09 PM
I would pop some grease on those stud threads Dom.

Bryan suggested I didn't put anything on the threads as it mucks with torque settings.  Might have a bit of a hold up with my barrels now though.

Oil or WD 40 then as they look so dry - I would be worrying about any more rust forming.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on October 25, 2023, 11:41:37 PM
I think they appear dryer/rustier than they are in the photos but I'll wipe them down with WD40 for you Ted😉  I was thinking of putting some rust treatment on the shafts of the exposed studs to protect them once fitted.

Hopefully get this thing started before Christmas!

Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on October 26, 2023, 01:11:51 AM
Looking good Don, that’s great progress and the cases look fab


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on October 26, 2023, 04:10:16 AM
Bryan is right about grease potentially mucking with torque settings. However, having threads like those with nothing done to them can also cause problems. The threads can getting damaged when the head and barrels are removed just by the rust/debris/crap that’s around the threads when you go to remove them. I always run a good die down the threads to make sure any rolled over threads are cleaned up, I’d also give them a thin smear of molybdenum grease before fitting the barrels, just to protect them from rust over the years they’ll be exposed. I also used to grease my threads and use a slightly lower torque setting to compensate for the grease. Around 2-3lbs lower. Around 14ftlbs iirc. Modern Hondas started to spec pressures with the threads oiled. TBH I think a lot of them got oil on the threads and especially the nuts back in the day, common practice was to throw all nuts/bolts in a tub as you dismantled the engine, we knew where they came from, we didn’t need to have them in separate boxes for example, lots of other stuff also got thrown in the same tubs, stuff dripping with oil, so the head nuts would be soaked in the oil coming off those parts. Didn’t seem to cause any problems back then tbh.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on October 26, 2023, 08:00:52 AM
I have no intention of putting it all together without cleaning those threads up so don't worry about that, when doing work on my cars I've always used copperslip and reduced the torque 5-10%.  My thoughts were in alloy I'd rather not risk slippery threads and lower torque on gaskets
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on October 27, 2023, 12:52:17 PM
Ted, you'll be pleased to hear I spent a wile on my studs and threads lastnight.  Got them nice and clean then a wipe over with some oil until I can get it all back together again.  The threads were quite dirty but perfectly formed, no damage evident.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on October 27, 2023, 01:25:25 PM
Skills
A satisfying job whe you’re on with it


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Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on November 07, 2023, 06:01:59 PM
Has anyone painted over powdercoat?  My frame has a few scratches and chips that I really can't be bothered going to the trouble of stripping it for, I tried touching them in with Rustoleum combicolour as it's what I painted my XS650 with but it's very obvious that it's a different black and sheen level.  I tried rubbing it back with some 0000 wire wool to matt it but it hasn't worked.

I'm now thinking of keying the entire frame and painting over the powdercoat with combicolour.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Johnny4428 on November 07, 2023, 08:43:59 PM
Guess it would be like painting plastic maybe. The first time my 750 frame was powder coated it got a mark on the rear frame from taking it out of the oven. I5 was only about the size of a finger nail but unfortunately on a visible part of the frame. I suggested touching up with paint but the powder coated said no and acid dipped and stripped and coated it all over again.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on November 07, 2023, 09:24:07 PM
I believe Hammerite Smooth will pretty much stick to anything so if out of view shading might not matter
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on November 07, 2023, 10:03:17 PM
I believe Hammerite Smooth will pretty much stick to anything so if out of view shading might not matter

I think I'll get it out in natural daylight to make a decision, if it stops raining!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on November 07, 2023, 10:11:15 PM
It used to, but like a lot of the good stuff its been altered and aint so good anymore
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on November 07, 2023, 10:40:02 PM
It used to, but like a lot of the good stuff its been altered and aint so good anymore

Combicolour is really good Bryan, flats out even when brushed on which is one of its claims, even better if you warm it and the workpiece while using it.  It does claim to be ok over powdercoat as its recommended for industrial use on machinery etc.  I'll do a bigger test patch I think then give it the scratch test!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on November 12, 2023, 10:13:44 AM
Yesterday I bit the bullet and lopped off the rear seat bracket to weld in my upswept hoop, I've not done much welding but nothing watching a few YouTube videos couldn't sort.  I've noticed another peculiarity with my right foot peg, it's an F so has the fold up peg but when down the rubber sits sloping forward rather than being horizontal like the left side, could it be a peg from another model?  It looks identical to the parts fiche on CMSNL.

A bit of a side note but I've noticed my frame and engine numbers match, I thought this rarely happened and given the mix up of parts on my bike I'd assumed the engine may not be original.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on November 12, 2023, 12:35:59 PM
Yesterday I bit the bullet and lopped off the rear seat bracket to weld in my upswept hoop, I've not done much welding but nothing watching a few YouTube videos couldn't sort.  I've noticed another peculiarity with my right foot peg, it's an F so has the fold up peg but when down the rubber sits sloping forward rather than being horizontal like the left side, could it be a peg from another model?  It looks identical to the parts fiche on CMSNL.

A bit of a side note but I've noticed my frame and engine numbers match, I thought this rarely happened and given the mix up of parts on my bike I'd assumed the engine may not be original.

I believe it might just be common wear on the footpegs - my 500 ones are the same
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on November 12, 2023, 02:09:23 PM
Yesterday I bit the bullet and lopped off the rear seat bracket to weld in my upswept hoop, I've not done much welding but nothing watching a few YouTube videos couldn't sort.  I've noticed another peculiarity with my right foot peg, it's an F so has the fold up peg but when down the rubber sits sloping forward rather than being horizontal like the left side, could it be a peg from another model?  It looks identical to the parts fiche on CMSNL.

A bit of a side note but I've noticed my frame and engine numbers match, I thought this rarely happened and given the mix up of parts on my bike I'd assumed the engine may not be original.

I believe it might just be common wear on the footpegs - my 500 ones are the same

Ah you're thinking I mean not horizontal sticking out from the bike but I mean as in rotated about their axis.  It is l located on the frame tab correctly.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: mickwinf on November 12, 2023, 03:56:02 PM
They can get bent if dropped at some point, also designed to rest against the kick-start.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on November 12, 2023, 04:08:32 PM
Remove the footrest rubber Dom and check to see what shape the bar is, the 500 and the 550 used different shape rods, IIRC, the 500 used square type and the 550 flat type. As the 550 uses footrest rubbers that are held by bolts going through the rubber and threaded into the bar and the 500 doesn't have that, if you swap the bars over and drill holes for the bolts unless you get them right they don't line up and the rubber sits at an angle. 
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on November 12, 2023, 04:10:56 PM
They can get bent if dropped at some point, also designed to rest against the kick-start.

I think you're misunderstanding me, it's not bent it's rotated to the wrong angle which isn't possible from a drop.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on November 12, 2023, 04:12:05 PM
Remove the footrest rubber Dom and check to see what shape the bar is, the 500 and the 550 used different shape rods, IIRC, the 500 used square type and the 550 flat type. As the 550 uses footrest rubbers that are held by bolts going through the rubber and threaded into the bar and the 500 doesn't have that, if you swap the bars over and drill holes for the bolts unless you get them right they don't line up and the rubber sits at an angle.

This sounds far more likely to me Ken, I'll go take a look and a few photos
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on November 13, 2023, 06:09:53 PM
Remove the footrest rubber Dom and check to see what shape the bar is, the 500 and the 550 used different shape rods, IIRC, the 500 used square type and the 550 flat type. As the 550 uses footrest rubbers that are held by bolts going through the rubber and threaded into the bar and the 500 doesn't have that, if you swap the bars over and drill holes for the bolts unless you get them right they don't line up and the rubber sits at an angle.

Here's some pics-
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on November 14, 2023, 03:57:11 AM
Something not right there Dom. The rear brake pedal is miles too high for starters. The dot on the pedal and the dot on the rear brake actuator arm are supposed to align.

Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on November 14, 2023, 04:14:52 PM
Something not right there Dom. The rear brake pedal is miles too high for starters. The dot on the pedal and the dot on the rear brake actuator arm are supposed to align.

Thats because I've got the rear end in bits
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on November 14, 2023, 04:48:19 PM
Try turning the peg down on the bolt
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on November 14, 2023, 05:41:04 PM
Try turning the peg down on the bolt

In this photo you can see that it's located in the notch on the frame so won't rotate any further, the other way would be the wrong direction so i can only assume it must be the wrong peg for this bike
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on November 14, 2023, 05:58:11 PM
I am probably wrong but i seem to remember the tand on the footrest bar locating againg the frame peg that sticks out
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on November 14, 2023, 06:18:34 PM
Yeah, forgotten about that TBH Dom.

Footrest looks correct TBH. Special one fitted to the 550F due to the kickstart needing to fold right out to miss the standard 4 into 1 exhaust. It might be possible to fit the 500 footrest onto the lower bolt if you're not using the standard exhaust.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on November 14, 2023, 06:50:05 PM
I am probably wrong but i seem to remember the tand on the footrest bar locating againg the frame peg that sticks out

Yeah that's correct Bryan
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: andy120t on November 14, 2023, 07:14:11 PM
I'm pretty sure I have the same on a 550f frame. Funny flip-up peg to avoid kickstart exhausts etc. with the peg in a different location to the K models.  I assumed the foot rest was angled forward to give a sportier lean forwards towards flat bars on the F model.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on November 14, 2023, 07:35:19 PM
I'd try a 500 footrest if it bothers you Dom. Locate it on the lower bolt, although that may mean buying the double ended bolt with it being longer. The left hand footrest is essentially the 500 so it would match better as well. You need to drill the bar to take the bolts holding the hero plate on but that's it I reckon.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on November 14, 2023, 08:00:18 PM
I'm pretty sure I have the same on a 550f frame. Funny flip-up peg to avoid kickstart exhausts etc. with the peg in a different location to the K models.  I assumed the foot rest was angled forward to give a sportier lean forwards towards flat bars on the F model.

I thought this too until I noticed the left side
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on November 14, 2023, 10:38:04 PM
I wonder if anyone with a 550F and a 500 could try and see if the 500 footrest would fit so long as you're using an aftermarket exhaust?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on November 22, 2023, 09:12:38 PM
Not much progress lately, a bit more plating of bolts and brackets but other than that I need to paint the frame ready to get the engine back in and put together the top end.  I think for now I'm going to skip getting the camshaft reprofiled, I can always revisit that next winter. 
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 03, 2023, 08:53:14 AM
Yesterday morning I managed to drift the swing arm bushes out, the tube that runs through them had well and truly seized onto them so lots of blow torching sorted that.  What I have noticed now is that my swing arm sounds like like a child's rattle, lots of loose rust inside, how can I get it out?  It sounds solid enough when tapped so I don't think there is any terminal rot, I might drill a small hole and inject some Bilt Hamber S50
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on December 03, 2023, 09:29:03 AM
Look at the back of the arm, on the inside edge near where the cain adjusters are welded on there is a small vent hole drilled into the arm. Clean the hole as it normally gets partially blocked with rust flakes. A small straw or something similar inserted in hole and jiggled whilst shaking the arm will allow the rust to drop out
.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 03, 2023, 09:49:30 AM
Look at the back of the arm, on the inside edge near where the cain adjusters are welded on there is a small vent hole drilled into the arm. Clean the hole as it normally gets partially blocked with rust flakes. A small straw or something similar inserted in hole and jiggled whilst shaking the arm will allow the rust to drop out
.

I thought there should be a venting hole, must have been powdercoated over, I'll have a look.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 03, 2023, 12:20:09 PM
Look at the back of the arm, on the inside edge near where the cain adjusters are welded on there is a small vent hole drilled into the arm. Clean the hole as it normally gets partially blocked with rust flakes. A small straw or something similar inserted in hole and jiggled whilst shaking the arm will allow the rust to drop out
.

None on mine Ken, doesn't look like they've been painted over at there's no evidence.  The most rattly but is the pressed bracing plate that has no vent hole either so I will just drill my own and flush it out
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 03, 2023, 02:51:29 PM
All cb550 swingarms on Ebay are missing drainage/vent holes, would it be sensible to drill a 3-4mm hole so I can flush the crap out and put cavity wax in?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on December 03, 2023, 03:48:53 PM
The CB500 swinging arm certainly has them and it's essentially the same arm.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 03, 2023, 04:47:04 PM
The CB500 swinging arm certainly has them and it's essentially the same arm.

Shall I just pop a couple of holes on each side, wouldn't at the lowest point on the underside be the best place to allow condensation to drain out?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on December 03, 2023, 05:13:05 PM
I'll take a pic of the 500 arm, it may be that the hole is there but so blocked and painted over that you can't see it.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on December 03, 2023, 05:14:27 PM
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/314995246801?hash=item49572e06d1:g:zqgAAOSwQbNlZh7B&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAAwF%2FweM8O98kTru5%2B7Nwb27qwvYviYl8ad9Dns%2BNX51SArPK5SE7uqP3hqHbnaoTDgXe7XzDOEkBq2mfrUK0oVubNz6HFMD7B%2Fl%2Feqj46nppPTpMOA4W%2B4sL1%2Btku9%2FVgjxJYIAVBiB2L3j81ompIjRQij2P4wzIa84aVY6KlWlmrzwkPzGPoTIrRuvJI%2BTiroeQo%2BLd9uXh2a601T%2FsllI%2FtbpRzugJYVswV2zEDXmBOzmFIdYkd50dvescZrKT35w%3D%3D%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR8a83IqGYw

7th pic, you can see the hole.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 03, 2023, 05:58:20 PM
I'll go out and wire brush it to see if it's there,  why would they put it there and not at the lowest point to allow draining?  Water will pool in the bottoms on those
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverda Dave on December 04, 2023, 09:16:36 AM
I'll go other and wire brush it to see if it's there,  why would they put it there and not at the lowest point to allow draining?  Water will pool in the bottoms on those

It could be because if they put the hole in the bottom it could potentially allow water to find it's way in especially when you consider this is directly behind the rear wheel and subjected to the spray thrown off the rear tyre.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on December 04, 2023, 11:22:13 AM
I'd do the hole where Honda put it on the 500 Dom, I'm using the same hole to fill both sides with Waxoyl after it's been powder coated, then allowing it to drain out afterwards just leaving the layer of wax behind. Do that every few years and it should outlast me
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: taysidedragon on December 04, 2023, 11:46:31 AM
I'll go other and wire brush it to see if it's there,  why would they put it there and not at the lowest point to allow draining?  Water will pool in the bottoms on those

Any holes in frames or swingarms are often there to allow the escape of hot gasses during welding. It reduces distortion  I believe.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverda Dave on December 04, 2023, 09:33:43 PM
I'll go other and wire brush it to see if it's there,  why would they put it there and not at the lowest point to allow draining?  Water will pool in the bottoms on those

Any holes in frames or swingarms are often there to allow the escape of hot gasses during welding. It reduces distortion  I believe.


Rickman put holes in their frames for the same reason Garath. It was also to allow the nickel solution to drain during the plating process otherwise the frame would rot from the inside out.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on December 04, 2023, 11:18:22 PM
The problem though is that the swinging arm, because Honda didn't use seam welding but spot welding which allows moisture to form inside the tubes, this then rusts the tubes from the inside out, hence why you can hear rust flakes tinkling around inside, the holes allow you to get rid of those and also to put something down the tubes to stop any future rot.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverda Dave on December 05, 2023, 09:20:34 AM
Did Honda put holes in all their frames Ken because I haven't seen any on the 400 frame or was it just the 500/550’s?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on December 05, 2023, 02:40:46 PM
I seem to recall there is a hole in the frame on the 500 but at this moment I can't remember where. TBH though, the welded parts, because they aren't seam welds, I'd say the frame doesn't really need them. The swinging arm always had them though but the amount that get those holes blocked by rust flakes etc is high. This topic is odd because not that long ago I did the shaking thing on one of my swinging arms, heard that rattling sound and decided I would stop that, took me about 40 mins to get it all out via the drill hole, the more you shake the arm the smaller the flakes get and they'll drop through the hole after a while.

I bought a basting syringe for meat, that has a small hollow metal needle, I'll fill the syringe with Zinc182 paint, fill the swinging arm till it's full, then allow it to drain through the holes, after that I'll fill with Waxoyl and allow that to drain. That should stop any future rust from developing. For me it's about ensuring the frame etc last as long as possible, I may do the same with the frame tubes if I an find a suitable entry point.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 05, 2023, 05:46:41 PM
I definitely have rust flakes in the swingarm bracing
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 09, 2023, 05:56:29 PM
What's the difference in these part numbers? Same screws but one lot are quite a bit more expensive

Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on December 09, 2023, 07:07:30 PM
B is chromed.
G is black

Also an A which is BZP.

There is one with no letter, probably plain steel
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 09, 2023, 11:44:15 PM
Oh thanks Ken!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 16, 2023, 11:11:02 AM
I've had some progress having got the lower half of the engine back in the frame, I've started refitting bits like the starter motor but have a question, how do I hold the crank still while I torque up the rotor bolt?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 16, 2023, 11:18:47 AM
I've had some progress having got the lower half of the engine back in the frame, I've started refitting bits like the starter motor but have a question, how do I hold the crank still while I torque up the rotor bolt?

I just stuck a strong screwdriver shaft through the rotor to hold it

I have another question though, which of the two casing bolts by the alternator does the cable retaining clip go on?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 17, 2023, 05:30:25 PM
I cobbled up a bearing/bush press from a length of 10mm threaded bar, heavy washers and large inverted sockets to press against the bushes themselves.  Even after leaving the bushes for three days in the freezer and warming up the swing arm and Liberal amounts of grease they required a hell of a lot of force to get them fully seated, to the point I stripped one length of 10mm bar.   Still they are in now so that's another job ticked off.

I noticed I'm missing the dust cap the sits under the rear brake arm, how important is this part?  Might be one for Ken or Bryan's endless supply of spares😉
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on December 17, 2023, 05:58:24 PM
Early ones didnt have them so cant be that important, i think yours should have an arrow on it that when it lines up with arrow on brake plate means the shoes are worn out
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 17, 2023, 06:49:42 PM
Early ones didnt have them so cant be that important, i think yours should have an arrow on it that when it lines up with arrow on brake plate means the shoes are worn out

Yeah that's what CMS parts fiche suggest, to be fair Bryan I'm not going to ride it in crap weather so dust and during washing is the only concern.  I reckon I could find something if only a thin washer to cover the exposed felt pad.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 28, 2023, 05:48:53 PM
Im revisiting my carb restoration now i have a zinc nickel plating kit, am I correct that this pin needs drilling out to enable the carb linkage rod to be removed and what can I use to re-pin afterwards? 
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Sesman on December 28, 2023, 09:24:33 PM
Photo required for confirmation, but probably yes. No, you can’t reuse the pin!!!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 28, 2023, 10:25:23 PM
Photo required for confirmation, but probably yes. No, you can’t reuse the pin!!!

Yeah, I said what can I use to re-pin.  Here's the photo I meant to upload.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on December 28, 2023, 10:30:37 PM
Use a dog point screw from Ebay, get them in brass if possible. Fit them into an electric drill, point end outward, spin and use a file to grind the end down until it fits inside the slot in the bar. 4 or 5mm is best.

I'll have some of those bars in stainless in a few weeks Dom. They tend to rust a lot.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 29, 2023, 09:38:16 AM
Mines a bit flakey to be honest Ken, how much are the rods as I'm trying to stop thie budget running away😄
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on December 29, 2023, 11:18:43 AM
Had the SS version been available when I assembled my carbs I would have fitted one. I sourced a much better one than my original from a member here.

If the corrosion is just on the sections between the fittings a good clean up & a some silver paint is pretty good - it's hardly vissible when the petrol tank is fitted.

My carbs had been restored by Gerben & when they drilled out the pin they broke part of that bearing - hence why my bracket had to be replaced - if you decide to drill out the pin be very careful as there is a risk of the bush in the bracket splitting in two. The bush looks like some sort of bronze colour.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 29, 2023, 04:25:49 PM
Thanks Ted, I'm not sure what is meant by the bronze bush, is there any photos on you're build thread?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on December 29, 2023, 04:48:21 PM
Thanks Ted, I'm not sure what is meant by the bronze bush, is there any photos on you're build thread?

The bracket that the throttle rod runs through has bushes inside the alloy bracket at each end - the bushes are not available seperately. When you drill out the pin on the right side of the bracket there is a risk that the drill will go into the bush & it could split.

Updated Found a photo.

.(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53429259704_aa6e3db78a_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ppmVsQ)throttle bracket bush 1 (https://flic.kr/p/2ppmVsQ) by Macabe Thiele (https://www.flickr.com/photos/187487200@N03/), on Flickr

.(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53429094293_a10e5da9bb_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ppm5hV)broken bush (https://flic.kr/p/2ppm5hV) by Macabe Thiele (https://www.flickr.com/photos/187487200@N03/), on Flickr


.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: K2-K6 on December 29, 2023, 05:16:30 PM
If you are going to remove a rusty one to replace it, then worthwhile using emery cloth (the real stuff) on the open rusty bits to allow passing through the bushes with reduced chance of damage.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on December 29, 2023, 05:31:08 PM
TBH Ted I think it was either Gerben that buggered up that bush or someone before him broke it and he didn't see it until he had them. I think whoever did it didn't drill all of it out, then they started to hit the rod sideways not knowing that a bit was left in, that shattered the bush.

The new Stainless Steel rods are £50 each Dom including P&P. That's not exactly cheap but you can't buy a new rod and getting an old one hard chromed costs around £65-85, I had a couple done earlier this year, the first time I had one done they charged around £25-30, then the power crisis hit and the cost went through the roof. I have some of those dog point screws as well, if you buy one I'll throw in one for you.

ATM, I only have one rod that Max made as the test one, I intend to order 3-4 more in a few weeks. However if you want this one I can let you have it so you can get on with the carbs.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on December 29, 2023, 05:55:11 PM
If you are going to remove a rusty one to replace it, then worthwhile using emery cloth (the real stuff) on the open rusty bits to allow passing through the bushes with reduced chance of damage.

Good point made K2-K6, I had cleaned off the visible rust on my old shaft with a small brass rotary brush in my drill before I drilled out the pin.  The bracket was inside a large shallow plastic tub that I use for dismantling things like carbs or gearboxes - aside from some waste from drilling out the pin there was no other debris so I am certain it was already broken.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverda Dave on December 29, 2023, 06:33:39 PM
I took my 400/4 spindle to Philpotts with my fork stanctions and asked how much to hard chrome it........£130😲, I didn't bother!
I've bought a S/S one from Max. He's going to be making them for the 400/4 in the near future.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Sesman on December 29, 2023, 07:23:47 PM
Photo required for confirmation, but probably yes. No, you can’t reuse the pin!!!

Yeah, I said what can I use to re-pin.  Here's the photo I meant to upload.

Oops, sorry Dom. must get some new specs. Plus one on what Ken has advised…eg dog point screw.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on December 29, 2023, 07:37:56 PM
I took my 400/4 spindle to Philpotts with my fork stanctions and asked how much to hard chrome it........£130😲, I didn't bother!
I've bought a S/S one from Max. He's going to be making them for the 400/4 in the near future.

That's odd, was this after I'd asked him to make them Dave as he asked for an old spindle to copy and AFAIK he's only made the one, which I have. Unless of course he made one especially for you.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 29, 2023, 08:51:24 PM
Thanks everyone for your replies, so once carefully drilled out the pin and the deburred shaft is slid out, drill out and tap to 4 or 5mm leaving the bushes in place?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on December 29, 2023, 08:56:56 PM
Yeah 4 or 5mm. Not sure which I've got but suspect it's 5mm, I'll have a look.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on December 29, 2023, 08:59:48 PM
Unless you are replacing the shaft I see little point in removing it unless you need to replate the quadrant.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on December 29, 2023, 09:10:14 PM
Oh I dunno Ted, some grease on those bushes can't hurt, plus it lets you really inspect some of the parts. I've seen lifter arms cracking where the pin goes through for example, yes you could most likely spot that without dismantling but checking the quadrant is also flat and not twisted is another.

I've considered drilling 2 small holes above the bushes so I can occasionally drop a little silicon oil down there, just 2 small plugs needed to seal them.

Plus of course the ability to change or replate the rod.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 29, 2023, 09:12:47 PM
Yeah 4 or 5mm. Not sure which I've got but suspect it's 5mm, I'll have a look.

I think for now Ken (and Ted) I'm just going to replate the throttle cable linkages and replace the shaft another time but thanks for the offer.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on December 29, 2023, 09:23:11 PM
Dom, did you get anywhere with the  footpeg scenario? I’ve just come back from the states  and having a read. I think I have a spare one if you want to try it. I had the same issues  with mine and had to doctor the ones that stayed on the bike. How’s you get on?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Johnny4428 on December 29, 2023, 09:25:31 PM
Weh hey back to the land of the living Roo! Or maybe you left that accross the pond? Anyhow welcome back.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on December 29, 2023, 09:29:27 PM
Dom, did you get anywhere with the  footpeg scenario? I’ve just come back from the states  and having a read. I think I have a spare one if you want to try it. I had the same issues  with mine and had to doctor the ones that stayed on the bike. How’s you get on?

Hi Roo, how was the trip? No I've not got to the bottom of it yet and moved on to other bits for now but I could try a spare.  Maybe worth me getting some photos of mine off the bike to compare first as I'm sure it's not bent just cast at a different angle.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on December 29, 2023, 09:29:36 PM
Cheers Johnny I’ve an air box lid for Dom too so thought I could fire him up a mixed bag of stuff. Makes sense.

Glad to be home……..at least it’s warmer


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Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on December 29, 2023, 09:33:04 PM
Dom, did you get anywhere with the  footpeg scenario? I’ve just come back from the states  and having a read. I think I have a spare one if you want to try it. I had the same issues  with mine and had to doctor the ones that stayed on the bike. How’s you get on?

Hi Roo, how was the trip? No I've not got to the bottom of it yet and moved on to other bits for now but I could try a spare.  Maybe worth me getting some photos of mine off the bike to compare first as I'm sure it's not bent just cast at a different angle.
I thought the same as mine looked twisted too, had a right think on trying to fettle it. I had the compounding issue that at the time, none were available so bought whatever came up,   mine was drooping badly also but managed that fairly easily, the twist was different but let’s have a look at what you’re working with and see if we can fettle it for you. Mine look pretty good now and I’m happy to leave them now but it took a bit of fiddling.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on January 20, 2024, 05:33:20 PM
I've spent  the last few weeks fiddling around with my wheels trying to decide what to do with the slightly crusty rims, I'm thinking black powdercoat with stainless spokes.  Today I've only just noticed my front rim is a Takasago with really thick 4mm spokes, surely not standard, dos that mean the rim has been reared out to take the hoofing great nipples?

The rear has very tidy plated spokes with yellow phosphor nipples so I might see if I can sell them on to help fund the stainless. 
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on January 20, 2024, 07:43:30 PM
That make was not fitted by Honda originaly, i think Kawasaki used them but i know Silver sold as a "quality" pattern part, if you are going to powder coat it i have a wheel you can have for a charity donation
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on January 20, 2024, 10:30:25 PM
That make was not fitted by Honda originaly, i think Kawasaki used them but i know Silver sold as a "quality" pattern part, if you are going to powder coat it i have a wheel you can have for a charity donation

That's great Bryan, I could collect it when I'm over at some point.  Those spoke surely aren't oe either, now I've noticed them they look horrific.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on January 21, 2024, 12:36:54 AM
I had spokes that big on my K reg 500, had them chromed first though, very sparkly  ;D ;D
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on January 21, 2024, 03:39:22 PM
They just look a bit big when compared to the rears, CWC are going to be making a hole on my pocket I think
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on January 22, 2024, 08:00:10 PM
Central Wheel Components list the cb550 spokes as straight un butted where I believe they should be single butted, sadly that makes them £125 a wheel😟
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on January 22, 2024, 08:29:32 PM
Eek!


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Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on January 22, 2024, 09:43:41 PM
Eek!


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Their prices have gone up a bit since I did my xs
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on January 22, 2024, 09:44:34 PM
Last set of rims n spokes I had were over 600 quid and I built them meself


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Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on January 22, 2024, 11:07:09 PM
Last set of rims n spokes I had were over 600 quid and I built them meself


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It's a rewarding process isn't it!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on January 23, 2024, 07:51:42 PM
Cart before the horse, less haste more speed, or plain old driving both rear wheel bearings home before putting the spacer in the hub!  😥☹️


*update, managed to drive the sprocket side bearing back out seemingly unharmed!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on January 23, 2024, 09:51:27 PM
Cart before the horse, less haste more speed, or plain old driving both rear wheel bearings home before putting the spacer in the hub!  😥☹️


*update, managed to drive the sprocket side bearing back out seemingly unharmed!

Not 100% certain but iirc there are two spacers in the rear hub, the long distance piece with the prongs plus the narrower one that fits into the left bearing. I assume you may have forgotten the smaller one.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on January 23, 2024, 09:54:27 PM
Cart before the horse, less haste more speed, or plain old driving both rear wheel bearings home before putting the spacer in the hub!  😥☹️


*update, managed to drive the sprocket side bearing back out seemingly unharmed!

Not 100% certain but iirc there are two spacers in the rear hub, the long distance piece with the prongs plus the narrower one that fits into the left bearing. I assume you may have forgotten the smaller one.

Oh better than that Ted, I forgot both🤦‍♂️
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on January 24, 2024, 09:42:13 AM
You aint the first and wont be the last
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on January 24, 2024, 11:54:00 AM
Cart before the horse, less haste more speed, or plain old driving both rear wheel bearings home before putting the spacer in the hub!  😥☹️


*update, managed to drive the sprocket side bearing back out seemingly unharmed!

Not 100% certain but iirc there are two spacers in the rear hub, the long distance piece with the prongs plus the narrower one that fits into the left bearing. I assume you may have forgotten the smaller one.

Oh better than that Ted, I forgot both🤦‍♂️

I will make no judgement here as I rode my 400 for a 100 miles before I discovered why it was down on power, popping & banging due to two wrongly connected plug leads.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on January 27, 2024, 08:52:23 AM
I've now corrected my mistake, I'm thinking I need to replace the refitted bearing though.  When I assemble the hub on the axle (no spokes or rim yet) and rotate it it stops suddenly rather that running freely, I think either a knackered bearing from the pounding to remove it or I've pinched the inner races with the spacers up tight.  Quite a tricky set up this isn't it considering the tolerance in drifting in the bearings, one tap too many and the inner races are under too much tension.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on January 27, 2024, 10:01:06 AM
The inners need to be up tight for the axle to tighten, think about it as you tighten the nut you are forcing everything together, its possible you damaged a race knocking the bearing out tacke the wheel out again stick a finger in the inner race(s) and rotate by hand
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on January 27, 2024, 11:00:32 AM
I think the inner race has been pinched, how the hell do you drive the bearing against the spacers without putting some preloaded on the bearing?

New bearing time...again maybe

*all sorted, I heated up the brake side bearing surround til very hot then knocked back the spacer from the socket side with an 18mm socket just enough to take the pressure of the inner race.  Free spins without notchyness.  Might have got away with that.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on January 27, 2024, 11:58:14 AM
TBH I would have thought it more likely that in drifting out the bearing your drift slipped off the outer race & distorted the metal bearing cage - easily done if the bearing is tight.

The tightening of the lock ring fixes the left side bearing (after you have previously fitted the right side bearing) Once assembled the spacers will give some preload to the inner races - this preload is limited as the right side bearing would be pushed out if it became excessive.

At least the above is how I see it in my head.

PS I am aslo often wrong.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on January 27, 2024, 01:15:03 PM
Definitely not thankfully Ted, the hub spins silky smooth so the acid test will be once its used in anger.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on January 28, 2024, 09:46:23 PM
Today's progress
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on January 28, 2024, 10:02:44 PM
Are you buiding the wheels yourself Dom, if so i have hints to make it easier
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Johnny4428 on January 28, 2024, 10:03:51 PM
Nice wok on the hubs there Dom!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on January 28, 2024, 10:17:37 PM
Are you buiding the wheels yourself Dom, if so i have hints to make it easier

Indeed Bryan, including that front-wheel you've offered me😉  I've built my xs650 wheels before but more than welcome any tips mate
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on January 29, 2024, 12:39:49 AM
OK, this is the way i do it.
There are two different ends at the hub end in angle and depth. One is fitted inwards from the outside so you see the head at the hub, the othe is fitted outwards from the inside so you dont see the head, there are 20 of each.
Fit only the ones that go inwards and fit the rim using just these 20, 10 per side.
Get the wheel truded as best you can on just these 20 spokes not forgetting Honda spec is 1/8 for side to side and up and down, no doubt you will get it closer than that BUT dont try and true out the jump where the weld is.
After you have done this it is easy to fit the other spoke from inside to outside and fit then tighten.
Doing this you are only truing on half the spokes which is way easier
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Johnny4428 on January 29, 2024, 11:14:21 AM
Very good advice Bryan, and a very satisfying job to do. Last wheel I did I followed that advice from a previous post and it worked a treat.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on January 29, 2024, 07:33:20 PM
Thanks Bryan, I think I've read this advice from you before so I'll give it a try this time.  I really enjoyed lacing my XS wheels, I ended up using dynabeads to balance them rather than visible wheel weights.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 02, 2024, 05:13:17 PM
Does this spacer from the sprocket side of the rear axle need replacing?  I wonder if the roughness will eat the new dust seal I've fitted.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on February 02, 2024, 05:17:48 PM
What spacer, no pic?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on February 02, 2024, 06:27:10 PM
If it's the outer spacer you can get them in SS from Max via Ken methinks
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 02, 2024, 07:36:03 PM
What spacer, no pic?

Oh my classic mistake! Here it is
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on February 02, 2024, 07:44:51 PM
I have my old one from my 500 if its the same size .
I'll check it for condition foc postage only if it helps.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on February 02, 2024, 07:48:38 PM
I’ve a spare re plated one if not Dom


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on February 02, 2024, 08:15:55 PM
Just had a look for it in the garage but part is not where it should be then I remembered why.

My original steel 500 rear spacers I posted out to Max who made exact copies of them - when I fitted the SS copies the rear wheel did not sit centrally.

That is when I found out that my bike had the wrong spacers fitted. Max supplied the correct ones - I binned the old steel ones as I have no idea what they were off.

I do however have the wrong sized ones in SS that are useless, sorry if I have built your hopes up - I should have looked before I posted.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on February 02, 2024, 09:06:09 PM
The SS one I have is 38 mm deep spacer so almost certainly the wrong size.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on February 02, 2024, 10:04:09 PM
That is worryingly worn Dom, like the hub had been media blasted and the seal and spacer left in. You need to replace that. Max has them for sale on Ebay last time I looked https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/156003857172?hash=item24528df314:g:Dm4AAOSwRrpk6SW8&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAAwFenbnOcq2gpA3mu2NrOTve8TZF3EgxbEA2Nuw3BfqG75mq%2FS64omy%2FXjNFgCKk2RVXyt0TxxsrawFG9Mj9edkyHCEgBLbNehVWpVJlSm0y9Fz1KZygQ1A0RkS2h2bKLA4jXLcCjv8eg1Q%2BqbRmWiiaRWjMEerUe5f%2BeiMox8YuLQeY6cI3o4iRleYLZSDVwx2AcG1RkM2t9S2nmI6c5Q%2BKp0wIAzJK4Ldmzt8OReob8gx7B4jbP3nfL9ZN8ncCHsQ%3D%3D%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR8rOxL2tYw

Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 02, 2024, 10:24:29 PM
That is worryingly worn Dom, like the hub had been media blasted and the seal and spacer left in. You need to replace that. Max has them for sale on Ebay last time I looked https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/156003857172?hash=item24528df314:g:Dm4AAOSwRrpk6SW8&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAAwFenbnOcq2gpA3mu2NrOTve8TZF3EgxbEA2Nuw3BfqG75mq%2FS64omy%2FXjNFgCKk2RVXyt0TxxsrawFG9Mj9edkyHCEgBLbNehVWpVJlSm0y9Fz1KZygQ1A0RkS2h2bKLA4jXLcCjv8eg1Q%2BqbRmWiiaRWjMEerUe5f%2BeiMox8YuLQeY6cI3o4iRleYLZSDVwx2AcG1RkM2t9S2nmI6c5Q%2BKp0wIAzJK4Ldmzt8OReob8gx7B4jbP3nfL9ZN8ncCHsQ%3D%3D%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR8rOxL2tYw

It's from my rear wheel which the hub was totally knackered from the sprocket carrier wearing away so has been replaced and rebuilt, this is one of the only remaining pieces. 

I think Roos offer or a stainless replacement from Max might be the best option.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on February 02, 2024, 10:42:22 PM
Its not stainless Dom, its just one I was practising my plating on, It came out really well but I had some SS ones to fit anyway, like I say, ,more of a practice piece but youre welcome to it once I get home and dig it out. I know where it is,  just hope its the right size for you mate, should be 8)
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Oddjob on February 02, 2024, 11:35:19 PM
Ahh, the sprocket carrier oscillating would certainly cause that type of damage Dom. Explains that.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 03, 2024, 12:25:28 PM
I picked up my rear rim from the powder coaters this morning,  laced it and trued up with minimal adjustments needed to get it within 1-2mm runout.  Pretty pleased with how it's turned out, just need to get the front rim from Bryan collected and drop off for the same treatment.  Oh and new spokes for the front to replace the ugly thick ones currently fitted.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 03, 2024, 12:48:48 PM
The SS one I have is 38 mm deep spacer so almost certainly the wrong size.

Ted, I'm pretty sure 38mm is the correct size for my 550f1 assuming it is the sprocket side
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on February 03, 2024, 12:53:29 PM
Yours for postage only if you can use it. I will pop a photo up when I'm back home.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 03, 2024, 01:22:36 PM
Yours for postage only if you can use it. I will pop a photo up when I'm back home.

Thanks Ted!  I've tried searching the correct spacer sizes for a 550f1 but can't find much so I'm relying on what is fitted being correct, currently it is 38mm long x 34mm tapering up to 38mm x 20mm bore on the sprocket side, 50mm x 35mm x 20mm bore on the brake plate side.

If anyone with an f1 can confirm these I'd be grateful.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on February 03, 2024, 02:00:46 PM
The other measurements look the same as those you have posted for the hole size & thickness, bore 20 & 34-38 o/d diameter for the seal etc.
This spacer pushed my wheel off centre towards the right side so Max supplied me the correct one for my 500 that is about 3 mm shorter.

.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53506046481_328790fbe1_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pw9tuM)rear spacer (https://flic.kr/p/2pw9tuM) by Macabe Thiele (https://www.flickr.com/photos/187487200@N03/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 03, 2024, 02:31:58 PM
The other measurements look the same as those you have posted for the hole size & thickness, bore 20 & 34-38 o/d diameter for the seal etc.
This spacer pushed my wheel off centre towards the right side so Max supplied me the correct one for my 500 that is about 3 mm shorter.

.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53506046481_328790fbe1_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2pw9tuM)rear spacer (https://flic.kr/p/2pw9tuM) by Macabe Thiele (https://www.flickr.com/photos/187487200@N03/), on Flickr

Can I just check but it looks perfect Ted.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 03, 2024, 02:36:12 PM
Actually Ted I'll take it if I may, I'll message you.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on February 03, 2024, 03:32:18 PM
Item spoke for - going to Dom then!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 06, 2024, 06:52:51 PM
I want to replace my rear axle nut with a stainless one, does anyone know where I can get an m18 x 1.5 stainless castle nut?  Middleton only go up to m16 and ebay items all seem to be 1.75mm thread pitch
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on February 06, 2024, 08:03:03 PM
I want to replace my rear axle nut with a stainless one, does anyone know where I can get an m18 x 1.5 stainless castle nut?  Middleton only go up to m16 and ebay items all seem to be 1.75mm thread pitch

I suspect you need the right high tensile grade of SS.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 06, 2024, 10:32:16 PM
Yes I'd not considered that Ted, I kind of assumed they'd be suitable
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 11, 2024, 08:16:50 PM
I picked up my rebored barrels from Bryan on Friday and dropped them off for a skim at a small engineering place in Hereford on my way home, with any luck I'll have the enginecall back together in a few weeks.  In the meantime I need to rebuild the front wheel once the rim has been powder coated, I'm thinking of economising with DS spokes rather than stainless, how resilient to rusting are they?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on February 11, 2024, 11:36:12 PM
About the same as original
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 12, 2024, 08:15:03 AM
About the same as original

My back wheel spokes were near to immaculate but may have been replaced at some point where as fronts are pretty corroded.  Cws are good and I've used them in the past but they're now £130 an end posted
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Johnny4428 on February 12, 2024, 11:26:56 AM
Not that long ago I was groaning at them being £75! 😡
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 12, 2024, 12:16:07 PM
Not that long ago I was groaning at them being £75! 😡

It's hard to justify £130 to the 'bank manager'
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Johnny4428 on February 12, 2024, 12:28:27 PM
Not that long ago I was groaning at them being £75! 😡

It's hard to justify £130 to the 'bank manager'
😂😂😂

An alternative would be plated ones on the front to match the rear? Would they be good enough to replate?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 12, 2024, 12:46:38 PM
Not that long ago I was groaning at them being £75! 😡

It's hard to justify £130 to the 'bank manager'
😂😂😂

An alternative would be plated ones on the front to match the rear? Would they be good enough to replate?

The DS ones are BZP aren't they, mine are too far gone and even then the tine involved plating 40 spokes and nipples with my small kit makes the DS ones price attractive
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Johnny4428 on February 12, 2024, 02:40:56 PM
I tend to agree Dom, even with a set in good condition it would be quite a tedious job. Never done a set myself, just bought a replacement stainless sets. Time to talk the “bank manager!” 😂
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 14, 2024, 10:52:50 AM
Here's a question for Bryan or anyone else that knows the answer, I picked up a cb550 hub from Bryan last week which is the version without the flats on the speedo side, what is the real difference if any when used on a single disc set up?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on February 14, 2024, 01:53:31 PM
Single disc none at all, you use all the same bits in same places speedo drive is driven by the chrome plate and bolts
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 14, 2024, 05:05:53 PM
Single disc none at all, you use all the same bits in same places speedo drive is driven by the chrome plate and bolts

Cheers Bryan, what was the change for then?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on February 14, 2024, 06:02:16 PM
Probably cheaper to produce, less machinig time
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 14, 2024, 06:41:23 PM
Probably cheaper to produce, less machinig time

OK, final question, what was the purpose of the machined flats that were seemingly not required?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on February 14, 2024, 07:28:08 PM
On the first CB 750 the speedo drive had two turned down flaps that engaged with the slots to turn the drive gearbox and the chrome trim was flat, aparently the speedo needle wandered due to not positive enough drive so honda modified it and i guess just did not get arround to altering the hub drawings till years later
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on February 15, 2024, 09:01:35 PM
Thanks Bryan!

Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 02, 2024, 03:20:50 PM
Today is fork servicing and polishing day!  I've had them all apart to find the lower tips of the stantions are worn a fair bit, I've never seem the. Like this before, are they toast?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverda Dave on March 02, 2024, 07:29:55 PM
Philpotts could possibly bring them back up to spec with the hard chrome plating. They will probably ask you to send them to enable them to have a closer inspection. Like everything else their prices have risen by a huge amount recently (likely as a result of the chrome plating industry being licensed into oblivion). I paid £280 for my 400/4 set a month ago including the two fork top nuts. £10 return postage is included in that price.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on March 02, 2024, 07:35:28 PM
Is it leaking fork oil or is it a cosmetic issue, if its leaking oil then hard chroming by Philpotts looks like the answer.

If it's purely cosmetic can you  live with it or cover it with fork gaiters as a cheaper alternative.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 02, 2024, 07:38:16 PM
It's only at the bottom of the stanchions so not swept by the seals and totally out of view, I think I need to check them for straightness as that's surely the only way they can wear like that.  No oil leak at all.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on March 02, 2024, 07:43:10 PM
Could it be the forks have in the past been dry of oil or is it a bend in the stanchions that has produced the bottom wear marks?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 02, 2024, 07:53:44 PM
Well actually one side was pretty low on oil and both were very dirty, I don't think they've been serviced for years as its been off the road for a long time
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on March 02, 2024, 08:00:06 PM
Not sure if abrasive dirt in the oil might explain the marking - if it's just surface marks might be fixable with slightly heavier fork oil - what do the insides of the fork legs look like - are they similar?

Someone like Bryan or Ken might know the reason for such wear.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 02, 2024, 08:20:55 PM
I think the legs are pretty good, I'll check again in the morning
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 03, 2024, 09:45:22 AM
Very little marking inside the lower legs, I struggle to understand how without bushes on the stanchion they don't contact the insides of the legs.  The damping rod has a bush I know but there must be significant flex in the rod
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on March 03, 2024, 11:42:32 AM
Might be worth a PM to Ken or Bryan - pretty sure they will know the cause & fix.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on March 03, 2024, 02:20:25 PM
Some wear is frequent, those look fine to use to me
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 03, 2024, 04:48:24 PM
Some wear is frequent, those look fine to use to me

That's a relief Bryan, I've reassembled them😀
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 05, 2024, 08:12:13 PM
I began assembling the top end tonight, I've staggered the piston ring gaps if this really makes any difference as I've read they are known to naturally rotate in use, laid the gasket on with its orings and oil jets (got them upside down to begin with) then lowered the barrels over and fed #2 and #3 then #1 and #4 piston into their bores.  Leaving the 20mm gap I then inserted the cam chain guide and slackened off the tensioner and fitted it making sure it as in the pocket in the crankcase.

Having had the barrels skimmed I'm hoping the orings in the top of the oil jets will be sufficiently fat enough to prevent leaks.  I've fitted the head gasket and dropped the head on, at this point I'm going to ask if I'm missing anything?  I've got new pucks from Julie to fit s well.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: davidcumbria on March 06, 2024, 07:52:04 AM
With a vesrah gasket I did upsize the o rings so looked a bit tighter than yours, allowing for the squish. Pretty sure I used 2.75 thickness in viton but can’t be sure. I know I didn’t use the vesrah ones. Head was not skimmed. No leaks so far. I thought it’s  It s worth trying a few sizes to see how they look because they  are so inexpensive and having to remove head again is a big expensive job.

 The po had fitted the oil jets upside down on my bike, not realised and actually damaged the seat in the barrels - amazed it wasn’t leaking.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 06, 2024, 08:02:01 AM
Yes I agree David, I might order some today, can you recall the internal diameter of them?  I'm at work so can't measure
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on March 06, 2024, 08:07:36 AM
As you have skimmed the block you dont need oversize O rings as the pockets are shallower so the ones you have will squish more.
Too much might close the hole a bit.

Rest of it looking good mate
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 06, 2024, 08:18:17 AM
Thanks Bryan, the o rings are pretty much level with the gasket, will it crush that much?

I'll put a picture up with a steel rule so I can demonstrate how shallow the Vesrah o rings are
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 06, 2024, 09:20:48 PM
I got home from work a bit early today, nothing to do with having a half built engine honest!  Bryan was correct, the new oil jet o rings were plenty proud of the gasket prior to torquing the head down which I have now done (I went middle of the specified range) following the Honda shop manual, an excellent resource on here thanks to the great forum members.  Should I retorque them tomorrow or will it be fine as is?

Getting the camshaft, sprocket and chain all on was a right b#####d, I knew I'd read Ted suggesting his method so trawled back through his build thread until I found his method.  All I can say is get the chain on the righthand side of the sprocket not the left then it's easy.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on March 06, 2024, 10:12:29 PM
Glad you remembered my struggle with the cam chain - hard to put into words though.
Pleased it helped.👍👍👍
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on March 06, 2024, 10:38:01 PM
Honda dont specify retorque but might be an idea to take to the max setting after a 24 hour wait, in workshops we never did as time taken was always against us
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 06, 2024, 11:16:12 PM
It really did help Ted, what didn't help was reading Ken mention to check and check again the tensioner is sat in its pocket in the crankcases...I'm panicking now even though I'm sure it was, any way of checking now its all torqued up?

I might do that Bryan but I felt uncomfortable torquing the two m6 flange bolts, makes me cringe doing them up in alloy to specified torque.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on March 06, 2024, 11:30:28 PM
Dont torque the m6 just do them last and to hand tool tight, only torque the main ones
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on March 07, 2024, 12:14:32 AM
It really did help Ted, what didn't help was reading Ken mention to check and check again the tensioner is sat in its pocket in the crankcases...I'm panicking now even though I'm sure it was, any way of checking now its all torqued up?


I know what you mean about the tensioner, just have confidence that everything went into place pretty easily when you lowered the block.
The front part that sits between the chain has side lugs that if it's not in place  would stop the block going flat down if its not in the recess slot iirc.
The rear tensioner blade is easier as it has the adjuster bolt plus the top mount - iirc the top bolt has an  O ring - this is just from my memory. I have the same sort of panic attacks - I ought to take assembly photos so I can check my work but I don't - thats when doubt creeps in.

This was the advice from Bryan & Ken on fitting the tensioner that I followed.http://www.sohc.co.uk/index.php/topic,28541.510.html
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 07, 2024, 08:11:14 AM
I just used the very lower end of their torque range on the 6mm flange bolts which I think was about 7 ft lb Bryan.

I agree Ted, but I have to have something to wake me in the middle of the night😀
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on March 07, 2024, 11:20:05 AM
I have my blaadder for that Dom. ;D ;D ;D

I know what you mean though wrestling with problems & solutions makes for restless sleep until the tricky things are done.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 07, 2024, 11:36:39 AM
Oh I've reached that point as well Ted, I thought I was still young at 44
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on March 07, 2024, 12:18:09 PM
Oh I've reached that point as well Ted, I thought I was still young at 44

BPE is part of being a bloke!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Seabeowner on March 07, 2024, 07:20:14 PM
I always fit the sump after the block so you can check the tensioner is in the slot by looking up underneath. It can miss and slip behind, done that a few times.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 07, 2024, 07:25:56 PM
I always fit the sump after the block so you can check the tensioner is in the slot by looking up underneath. It can miss and slip behind, done that a few times.

I suppose I can whip the sump off and have a look because I've not got oil in it yet.

I've just had to do a helicoil thread repair on one of the valve cover bolts, literally one of the last ones I did up so lots of masking up to prevent any swarf going any where. I used a piece of aquarium airline on my Charles hoover to vac the hole out.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Seabeowner on March 07, 2024, 09:42:22 PM
When fitting the block you can either leave the tensioner loose and it will waggle around a fair bit or push the blade back by hand against the spring and lock it off with the nut to hold it firmly upright. The loose way gives opportunity for it to miss. The fixed way in theory should be better if all is straight.
Pic of missed pocket:
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 07, 2024, 10:03:46 PM
I bolted mine up and tensioner fully held in and locked off so fingers crossed I don't see that in your photo!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 09, 2024, 05:47:25 PM
The worry was killing me to I took the sump off this morning, thank goodness all was as it should be!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 22, 2024, 07:21:05 PM
I don't like to ask this question but when installing the cam chain tensioner is it possible to locate it out of the pocket to the rear of the engine, I've seen plenty that have been mounted in front of the pocket which I know I didn't do from my photos but I'm concerned it may have missed and gone the other side.  Paranoia is setting in!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Bryanj on March 22, 2024, 08:11:01 PM
No, the crankcase is in the way as i remember
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on March 22, 2024, 11:01:07 PM
That's a relief Bryan, I've got a photo up through the sump which confirms its not missed  then
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on April 02, 2024, 06:11:04 PM
I've not updated this much lately, mostly because I've hit a bit of a slow patch with other things going on and not being quite sure how I'm going to finish bits off.  I've made a fibreglass seat base with cable release and a cowl so I'm getting to the point of thinking about paint colours which brings me to my question, I'm pretty set on a gunmetal or graphite colour but maybe with a bit of a greeny hue or green metallic flake.  I'm struggling to find the colour I have in my head and have trawled Ebay car listings and looked at cars while on holiday hoping to find it, despite anyone have any suggestions or a way of finding the right colour?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on April 02, 2024, 06:28:58 PM
It's an old colour from the late 1960/early 1970'ss - have you looked at Goodwood Green Metalic Starmist iirc its a dark green almost black in poor light from Vauxhall back in the day?

Or something like this?
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/112665458713?chn=ps&_ul=GB&_trkparms=ispr%3D1&amdata=enc%3A1sWidqwJeSU24B67B0VzMbQ40&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=710-134428-41853-0&mkcid=2&mkscid=101&itemid=112665458713&targetid=1647205088520&device=c&mktype=pla&googleloc=9046416&poi=1006674&campaignid=19926849521&mkgroupid=147378848803&rlsatarget=pla-1647205088520&abcId=9311021&merchantid=115207584&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw2a6wBhCVARIsABPeH1twg4sNgWnItKn5mNc_wXiuivCS6xw6D4qAJfeBYcS9dSrZocQ7_6QaAhiAEALw_wcB


That said some here might remember I was going to paint my 500 frame in Nut Brown so best ignore me.lol
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on April 02, 2024, 07:37:57 PM
Oh yes! The nut brown frame😄  I was hoping to spray the tank etc myself but the best way of deciding on the right colour might be easier if I visit a local bodyshop to look at their colour swatches
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on April 25, 2024, 09:28:18 PM
Updates following Roo's request
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on April 25, 2024, 10:16:53 PM
Loving that Dom, really getting there now mate, top progress


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Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverda Dave on April 25, 2024, 10:25:31 PM
Looking good Dom. Nice to see something a bit radical 👍
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on April 25, 2024, 11:03:17 PM
Thanks chaps, it's surprising how much I've still got to do though.  I think all cables will need replacing or inventive routing, new multifunction gauge- possibly a Koso, replacement side covers, brake lines and a respray.  Oh and the leather seat project that I've got my mum involved in but sadly she is undergoing constant chemo so not much into the idea anymore.

Things I've learnt, I can't weld but I can melt two pieces of metal together and tidy it up with filler.  Fibreglassing is satisfying if a bit tricky at times.  Paint stripper is very flammable, don't set light to it while holding an item covered in it, you may just flap around like a loony trying to put it out and splash molten stripper on your otherwise immaculate Daytona 675.  This really did happen and I'm only just forgiving myself for it.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on April 25, 2024, 11:13:27 PM
That’s crap maye, hope she’s see’s some improvement soon mate.

The job list is endless and there’s always something else to sort! I’ve some spare black coated brake lines lurking in the draw. They’re the ones from the solid section off the calliper to the splitter, not sure of the configuration you’re using but I bought them after getting sums wrong and ended up being a bit short. I had some remade so these are surplus.

I went for the single tachometer, digital speedo combo from Daytona. Looks pretty classic, small and has all you need on yer know…….possibility for you?
I run a digital connector from the OE speedo drive the same route as the cable would go up to the clocks. Fairly inconspicuous……(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240425/957ca24eace175d490e37e2401fadd45.jpg)


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Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on April 25, 2024, 11:18:45 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240425/808505c1bef3c046646c1a7089b03008.jpg)
Crap photo but during jogging mudguards. That’s the electric pick up on the drive there. It had a fettle after this for better clearance but works a treat and keeps a look………kinda


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Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on April 25, 2024, 11:19:54 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240425/600add985d3ba21b4d54c2c29a1f3ab1.jpg)
Betterer look


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Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on April 25, 2024, 11:31:05 PM
Oh, I misunderstood the speedo cable thing Roo, I assumed it plugged into the end of the standard cable which concerned me as it'll be hugely long by then.  Which cable was this and was it from Digital speedos?
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on April 25, 2024, 11:42:25 PM
Oh, I misunderstood the speedo cable thing Roo, I assumed it plugged into the end of the standard cable which concerned me as it'll be hugely long by then.  Which cable was this and was it from Digital speedos?
The tacho is from digital speedo’s and I think the cable connector is from Louis Moto,  I got it from there as DS’s didn’t have one in stock. If I get chance tmrw I’ll  dig the paperwork and get the deets for you

Yeah, the cable turns the original rotational, speedo drive into a pulse that the tacho can read. It has to be set up like everything which I haven’t got round to yet but the reviews are really good and it was perfect for what I was doing.


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Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: davidcumbria on April 26, 2024, 06:40:19 AM
Good progress Dom I like the way your design really gives more emphasis to the engine/ exhaust than the stock bike. Shame about the Daytona ( I have a street triple ) but unless you never ride your bikes or do anything in the garage these minor damage issues seem to be an annoying fact of life for most of us.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on April 26, 2024, 06:51:45 AM
Thanks David, it's been a bit of an evolving project really, it was meant to be a budget build!😄

It would be good if you could find the details Roo, ive just looked on Louis moto and there are a few different cables so I may give them a call to see which I need, they all appear identical.  One other question, have you blanked off the tacho drive on the cam cover?  I was looking at that very gauge too but now I'm thinking of a smaller 64mm koso
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on April 26, 2024, 11:34:21 AM
Yeah, bunged it up with a rubber grommet, I’ve plenty if you want one

I’ll have a look later on for you, just out wobbling around the mendips today with ‘The Long Haired General’ on the back.

(I’m on my best behaviour)


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Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on April 26, 2024, 12:06:07 PM
Yeah, bunged it up with a rubber grommet, I’ve plenty if you want one

I’ll have a look later on for you, just out wobbling around the mendips today with ‘The Long Haired General’ on the back.

(I’m on my best behaviour)


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🤣
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on April 26, 2024, 01:24:02 PM
Digital Speedos website is a bit crap, there's no phone number but they do have a messaging service. I've gone backwards and forwards trying to get them to answer my question about speedo cables for a cb550 but not getting a direct answer.  I'm not sure how you can operate a business with no phone number.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on April 26, 2024, 03:11:56 PM
I've noticed quite a few Websites where phone numbers, actual postal address are missing as well as a lack of e-mail address.
Some that have them keep them well hidden it seems with lots of navigation needed.

Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on April 26, 2024, 05:45:35 PM
It's so frustrating Ted, I've asked yet again today if they can confirm which speedo cable type I need for a cb550, the reply avoided answering the question.  I'm fairly certain I know having taken mine off but confirmation would be great so it's over to Roo to answer it for me.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: SteveD CB500K0 on April 26, 2024, 08:00:24 PM
I've noticed quite a few Websites where phone numbers, actual postal address are missing as well as a lack of e-mail address.
Some that have them keep them well hidden it seems with lots of navigation needed.

Companies Act 2006.

If you are a limited company in the UK you must put (at least) your registered address on your website.


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Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on April 26, 2024, 08:31:25 PM
Posted today Dom, I’ll have a look for those deets mate, haven’t forgotten…………just side tracked…


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Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on April 26, 2024, 09:33:50 PM
I've noticed quite a few Websites where phone numbers, actual postal address are missing as well as a lack of e-mail address.
Some that have them keep them well hidden it seems with lots of navigation needed.

Companies Act 2006.

If you are a limited company in the UK you must put (at least) your registered address on your website.


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That address is often one of a row of brass plaques at an office full of letter boxes!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on April 26, 2024, 10:07:52 PM
Thank Roo mate!

We've got an address in the High Street in my home town of Kington that has hundreds of businesses registered at it.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on April 26, 2024, 10:10:22 PM
Sent via wattsapp buddy deets and piccies


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Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Johnny4428 on April 27, 2024, 06:44:30 AM
Just catching up on this thread and without high jacking it the name Digital Speedos came up. Is anyone else on here been waiting for an order from them for a considerable time? I have been waiting 7 weeks now and they are proving very difficult to contact was beginning to think that I’ve just chucked £200 odd quid away. Then on the 15th April this email came through. And by the way I am still waiting. There was no mention of any delays when I ordered but yet the money came off the account pretty quickly!😡
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: McCabe-Thiele (Ted) on April 27, 2024, 09:54:59 AM
That sounds promising a change of ownership might explain the delay.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Johnny4428 on April 27, 2024, 09:59:46 AM
I was hoping that Ted!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on April 27, 2024, 03:15:46 PM
That's partly why I've not ordered from them yet, lots of iffy reviews
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Johnny4428 on April 27, 2024, 03:45:09 PM
There’s nothing yet to convince me that I’m going to receive anything Dom!😳
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on April 27, 2024, 05:04:26 PM
Have you been using their online messaging service? I've been getting some joy speaking to a chap called Jamie but as I've said before he doesn't answer some of my questions but avoids them.  I hate that, if I ask 5 questions I want 5 answers not 4!
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on April 27, 2024, 05:10:07 PM
Have you been using their online messaging service? I've been getting some joy speaking to a chap called Jamie but as I've said before he doesn't answer some of my questions but avoids them.  I hate that, if I ask 5 questions I want 5 answers not 4!
Are you boys emailing or calling, I’ve never had an issue with them?(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240427/e575a29683bbf469d32d932ae76352bd.jpg)
.


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Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on April 27, 2024, 08:41:45 PM
That's the number I've tried Roo, it has never been answered just rings
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on April 27, 2024, 08:44:18 PM
Mmm, maybe go all ninja and jump on em at 1 minute passed opening time on Monday and try to ambush them that way?       Swines!


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Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: taysidedragon on April 27, 2024, 09:40:13 PM
I've bought stuff from them before and never had a problem. They're usually at the larger bike shows too.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Johnny4428 on April 27, 2024, 10:59:51 PM
Maybe just bad luck to have ordered from their site in the midst of a take over. I just tried phone number on their website Roo not sure if that’s the same one. I’ll give it a couple of days and try again.
Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: Laverdaroo on April 28, 2024, 02:00:50 AM
Fingers crossed mate,


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Title: Re: Doms CB550F1 project
Post by: DomP on April 28, 2024, 09:14:41 AM
I think when I order I'll just stick it on a credit card for safety
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