'77 gs550 restoration project

[skynet.porter]

hi out there,
just picked up a "new" 77 gs550. it's going to need alot of work, but im going to give it a shot. we found it in a barn not running. the original owner said it ran fine when he put it up in '89. so far the motor turns over, starter will crank the motor, but im not getting any any compression in one cylinder. this is my first rebuild so any help will be appreciated.

[waterman]

Welcome to GSR, I am sure BassCliff will be around to officially welcome you. Be sure to check his website for his archived info.

Nice looking project, a bit more ambitious then most but it looks like it is mostly there. I like the looks of the early 550s, I may pick one up someday.

Before you get to carried away, check to see about a title. Would hate to spend too much time and effort if you can't make it legal.

Ask questions away, who knows, you may even get some correct answers.

[skynet.porter]

Welcome to GSR, I am sure BassCliff will be around to officially welcome you. Be sure to check his website for his archived info.

Nice looking project, a bit more ambitious then most but it looks like it is mostly there. I like the looks of the early 550s, I may pick one up someday.

Before you get to carried away, check to see about a title. Would hate to spend too much time and effort if you can't make it legal.

Ask questions away, who knows, you may even get some correct answers.

no worries on the title. here in TN, I can antique plate it with or without the title.

[Nessism]

I wouldn't worry about the compression just yet since it hasn't run in a long time and the rings may be stuck. I'd dump a good sized shot of Marvel Mystery Oil on top of each piston since that stuff is great for loosening up rings.

Before trying to run it do yourself a favor and go though a full carb rebuild and replace the intake boot O-rings. Make sure the airbox is installed, airfilter is in good shape, and everything is sealed up like stock before trying to fire up the bike. Oh, and check spark and deal with the points as needed too.

Maintenance first, run the bike second. Most people do it backwards and wind up getting frustrated when the bike doesn't run.

[tkent02]

Check the valve clearances first. They normally get tighter as they wear. If they are too tight, there will be no compression. The engine may or may not be OK after that, but it's the first place to look.