Just a note, the retaining bolt is actually a 23mm socket, not 24mm. 24mm will work though, but might slip occasionally.

Just happened on this video and sure took me back in time! 43 years to be exact. I bought a brand new '74 CB 550. Metal flake orange. I don't think the oil ever got dirty in the 4 years I rode it. Really enjoyed riding back then but I'd be scared to death to ride now. Thanks for video!

Thanks for your videos, I just purchased a 74 CB 550 and I am in the process of cleaning it up to ride. Your videos have been extremely helpful.

Just picked up one of those test lights at the local auto store, can't wait to try this and see if my timing is set correctly. Looks pretty easy. I was able to check my valve clearance after watching one of your videos. A lot of this stuff isn't that difficult. Just did my first carb clean and carb sync recently too.

Years ago on a CB750 I owned, I had an aftermarket point set that used Delco (GM) points that could be adjusted with an Allen wrench and then set with a dwell meter. I checked timing with a timing light. This was the same set-up I used with my 71 454 Vette.

Hey man, just want to thank you for making this video. It really helped me out with the timing part. Love other videos you made as well. Awesome!

Be sure to adjust the points first. Also, you can just use a multimeter without having to buy a light. Also, it's a good idea to replace the condensers (cheap) when you adjust the timing.

Great video men right on point!

Always set point dwell (point gap) with dwell meter first on each set of points. Then adjust timing with a stroboscope (timing light) with engine running. This can show the actual ignition timing above 2500 rpm (full advance) which is where your engine will spend most of it's operating life on the highway.

Japanese motos of that era do not use Phillips screws, they are JIS screws. Get a set of JIS screwdrivers to avoid camming out/messing up the screw heads.

Great video and helpful.....Thanks!!

Awsome. Thanks!

thanks!

Hey classic, I have a 83 NH cb550 but under my timing cover looks completely different.. is there another cover to get to this?

Would this be the same process for a 97 cb750? The manual says to open the left crankcase well the insides look completely different and oil spilled out lol (in the manual it didn't show oil )

solid video, thanks!

I just picked up a 74 cb550k thats been sittong for years! I got it running but only stays running on choke and giving it gas. Do I need to adjust carbs? I don't know what I'm doing. I need some parts for it, am I able to find parts for a bike this old? Clutch isn't engaging even when i lift the piece on motor that cable connects to. Main concern is keeping it idling on its own. Any help is appreciated. Thanks

Any info on wiring a 72 cb500 as of now I have 1 green and 1 black coming from the points n that's it

I just got a cb550ss 76 it ain't ran in years and it isn't getting a spark at all I don't have a battery in it im just using the kick start can you help me??

I think I broke or stripped my timing nut. How do I fix that or am I totally screwed? Thanks for any info and love your vids!