Low Idle And Starter Problems

I have an '83 XJ650 with 2 annoying probs.I just got the bike 2 weeks ago and the probs that plague it although minor to semi-major has become an annoyance.1st is the low idle after i warm it up it never goes to or over 1k when choke is off.I have to keep set at a certain level or the idle will fall to or below 1k,sometime killing the bike.I have added Seafoam it helps but didn't fix the prob.
2nd is the starter. I was made aware of it by previous owner,thankfully he was honest about it.However when u start the bike the starter grinds.Previous owner says it starter clutch,but when i check with the local dealership he couldn't find a that clutch on the bike.He said there never was one on it.I personally not sure it he knew what he was talking about.I was looking at all issues that may cause it to grind after so many tries.

 

Have you tried to adjust the idle knob? I do believe it would be where mine is and thats between 2&3 on the carburetor near the air box. Try turning that up a bit.
The starter I know nothing about. And seafoam is a waste of money. If the carbs are dirty welcome to some fun times rebuilding them. They are pretty easy. Everyone here will be happy to help you along.
Now 2 things you should deffinitely do to this bike.
First pull the back tire and check for delamination on the brakes. If it goes while you are riding that back wheel will lock up on you. Bad day.
Second check your valve clearance. They have probably never been checked and will have to be right if you ever plan to get the carbs tuned right.

 

Is the idle knob that big knob between carb 2and 3?

 

That's the one Joseph. It is on my 82 650Seca anyway.

 

Ok anyone have any ideas on the starter issue?

 

Sure. What oil is in the bike? There IS a starter clutch; and it doesn't like automotive oil or most synthetics.

And to echo everyone else's input, SeaFoam won't "fix" anything. You're going to need to get your valve clearances in spec and do a carb service; probably sooner than later.

 

Not sure the prevoius owner didnt seem to know for sure.I wasnt sure what else would make starter grind.Could it also mean starter going bad?

 

I want to be clear here on my personal opinion.

Sea Foam I don't think is a "waste of money" at all.

It will never replace a thorough carb cleaning if your carbs are completely clogged.

It can HELP if you're carbs are a little restricted (full clean is still better)

It IS A VERY GOOD preventative measure to take every 2 or 3 tanks, to keep the little varnishing you may get from todays fuels in your float bowls etc.

$10/month i'll spend all year long if it keeps me from having to rip my carbs off every winter/spring.

It can be a VERY EFFECTIVE cleaning agent to clean out gunk from your crankcase, to run a half can in the old oil for a few minutes right before you change the oil.