Float Bowls became Waterfalls

After taking the bowls off for a cleaning, then replacing the gaskets and fuel line, Carb's #3 and 4, (Right side looking forward) both were pouring fuel out of the top while #1&2 stayed dry.

Would this be a problem with the float settings or something deeper. I put on brand new gaskets and did not tinker with the floats at all, it's just been sitting with the bowls off upsidedown for about 6 weeks before my garage became habitable enough to sit in after the cold.

I did get the bike to fire up (on all cylinders) before I cut it off, and then took the carbs off (pain in the ass) to try to investigate the problem.

Has anyone else had problems like this?


83 XJ550R ~20k Mikuni Carbs

 

I'm sure someone else will go into more detail, but when I had that happen to me, the problem was with both my float levels and my petcock.

 

If they didn't leak before, I'd wack them with a rubber mallet. Sometimes small bits of crud gets into the float seats and the mallet helps remove it....but once you get it clear, install a fuel filter. Use your head though, don't beat them like a rented mule!!

jeff

 

Stuck floats, pure and simple (or crudded up float valves, same thing.)

You're going to need to do a carb service. Not horribly difficult but you do need a manual.

 

Sharpen a wooden golf Tee and ream the "seat" to polish it.
Ultra-fine sandpaper on the float pin, AND the hollow part where it lives, to give the least friction.
And of course, clean everything if they are apart, and wet-set the floats with the "clear-tube" method.
If they don't leak on the bench, they won't leak on the bike.

 

I just threw in the towel and trailered my bike to my mechanic.

He did tell me that one trick he uses is to take a q-tip in an electric drill, dip it in brass-x or chrome cleaner and then polish out each of the float pin seats.

I probably could have fixed them, but with the temps over 70 in the forecast, I just wanted them done.

 

Now there's a good idea, never would have thought of that one, thanks!

I wonder if one of these Dremel pointy polishers would be small enough:

 

One of the easiest way to "Re-finish" the Bore inn a Float Valve Seat is to acquire a Disc of 1500 Finishing Paper from an AutoBody Shop Supply Store.

Cut one edge square.
Roll the paper into a tight "Cigarette" roll.
Twist the Roll in the Bore.
6 to 10 revolutions ... dry.
Brush on some WD-40.
4 - 5 revolutions ... Wet.

Cut-off the "Used" portion.
Do the nest one, ...
And so on ...