[Barnstormer]

Greetings!
I recently got my hands on a 1971 CB175 for a song, and I have a couple questions. The bike is in pretty good shape, paint is a bit faded, but only had 4k miles, and fires right up on the first or second kick. The solenoid on the starter seems bad, just kinda stutters and wont turn the engine. No big deal as the kick starter works fine.

The questions I have are this-
I would like to change the oil, how much and what weight is best? It says 10-40 on the cap, but just checking if that is still the best choice. And where is the filter?

The tires have tread, but are pretty dry. I can't find a listing that matches the 2.75x18 and 3.0x18 tires that are on it. What is the equivalent size in metric tires available?
Is there any benefit/drawback to a wider tire in the back? I admit it is purely for looks, but I'd like a bigger tire out back. If its not too bad an idea, what is the widest tire that will fit?

Other than that, the bike is fine. It runs great, and I think I'll just clean it up real well before I decide what else I want to do with it.
Any other recomendations for this bike? I know I need a manual,(looking for one).
Valve adjust?

Thanks for your advice!
Brian

Edited by - barnstormer on May 23 2005 8:39:52 PM

 

[jbranson]

It takes about 1.5 quarts of 10-40w...actually 1.5 liters.

Filter is behind the round cover on the right side. Remove the filter cover retaining screw (phillips) in the center of the filter, screw in an 8mm bolt to remove the filter cover...as you screw in the 8mm bolt it will slowly push the cover off. Works kind of like a flywheel removal bolt.

80/90 18 should fit on the front and 90/90 on the back. You could probably fit a 100/90 on the back but it would just slow the bike down and might rub the rear brake stay arm.

Valve adjustment should be checked and set to .002" on both intake and exhaust.
JohnnyB

 

[Barnstormer]

So, I was changing the oil today (thanks for the info) and when I removed the right side cover, the screw that is in the middle of the filter is completely mangled. I didnt even try to unscrew it, I was worried I might make it worse before I knew what I was doing.
So, I filled it back up with fresh oil, and left it for the moment.
How bad is that?
There is about 4k miles on it, and obviously someone has been in there before, so how critical is it to change the filter at this time?
Thanks again.
Brian

 

[jbranson]

No biggie, should be ok. You'll need to get it off eventually though. Often they are managled, you'll probably need an impact driver (the kind you hit with a hammer) to get it out. Then replace it with a 6mm socket head screw.
Sears sells a decent impact driver with various bits. Good investment if you plan on working on old bikes.
JohnnyB

 

[Barnstormer]

I've got an impact driver, one of these days I'll get it off.
This sure is a fun little bike to ride!
Thanks for the good advice!
Brian