u/Plus_Donut6177

Hey y'all. Newbie mechanic here, probably asking a dumb question but it's just one way to learn, so here goes-

I was going through some maintenance today on my '74 Honda CB550 and I got to the part about adjusting the cam tension. Seemed pretty straightforward until I was told to expect a spring-loaded adjustment screw that would find its proper place once I released the nut holding it tight. I had cylinder 1 in the right position, got the nut released, and then...nothing. I ran the screw in and out a bit and no magic spring action. I wanted to ask: can that spring wear out? Is it not self adjusting because there's no spring tension on it? And if I unscrew it completely am I screwing myself by undoing a connection inside that I would have to tear apart the engine to get back to? If you read this far down, please know I appreciate your time, and any advice is welcome and respected.

This is my first time changing out the oil in my CB550 and I was amazed (and at first, alarmed) at the color difference between old and new oil. I don't have a record of when the previous owner last changed it, but I will be sticking to the manual's recommendation from here on out. Feels good to be a responsible owner, I hope I do.tge old gal proud.

Just received the side cover emblems for my CB550 and wonder if anyone here can speak to how well the interior press clips hold the metal emblems in place. I'm considering putting a dab of LockTite on the posts just for peace of mind, but I do have a tendency to overcomplicate things that don't need messing with. I am super pleased to have her wearing a proper name tag, though.

First bike, '74 CB550, and truly loving it. I have been reading in this group that this may not have been the best idea for a mechanical noob like myself, but I'm appreciating all the learning experiences and subtleties of a four carb engine. Yesterday, after falling down the rabbit hole of fuel/air mixtures, it seems I dialed it way too lean and ended up with some backfiring, and a friend suggested that the "reset settings" may not apply since I have pod filters instead of the stock air box. I really appreciate this community and the distribution of ideas, thoughts, and knowledge.

I couldn't help myself, she was just sitting there looking so perfect. A little compressed air, a new ribbon, and she did not disappoint. The instruction manual and accessories bag I found inside were an extra tasty treat. According to the serial number catalog, this trusty SM-3 hails from the year 1957. I'm glad I wasn't looking for another machine, I might have missed this one.

So ya, I know I said my last Olympia was my last typewriter. I'll just start with- that was a lie. This cute little sports car with its Italic Elite was just too irresistible. However, about every fourth or fifth line it starts to...bottom out? I can't really explain it better than that in a word. The keys still move all the parts but it's like there's a small, rubber mallet stopping the slugs from making full contact. The ribbon advances, it makes a bit of contact, but even hitting the keys harder does not solve the issue. If I reverse and try and go over it again, same issue. And then, a line or two further down, poof! Back to flawless operation. Has anyone run up against this? Any ideas what might be causing it? If I can't figure it out I'll have to take it to Bremerton Typewriter Co and see if they can solve the riddle. Thanks for reading!

I'm chalking this up to these SM4's finding each other rather than admit I can't help myself. Man, they type nice, though

Hi everyone! So ya, I just got my first SM4 yesterday and I was pleasantly surprised to see it came with an exclamation point. Upon testing all the keys, though, I discovered there was no linkage connected to the arm.of the key itself. I'm guessing it's just missing and I'll need to find a replacement, but it seems an odd thing to lose. Wondering if any other Olympia users have come across this? Thanks!

Just picked up this beauty and she types like a *dream*! She is missing one small arm to engage the exclamation point (which honestly I've never had to begin with on any other machine in my collection), but I also know that is solvable. Really happy I found one in such great condition and in black 🖤