Automatic inline fuel shut-off

My petcock leaks (of course) and the other problem it has is not flowing enough gas unless it's in prime.

I want to install an inline auto fuel shutoff so I can leave the petcock on prime all the time.

I figured the best way to control it would be to have it open when I put the key in the "on" position.

Here's the unit:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayI ... 218&rd=1,1

Anybody have any experience with installing one of these? Thoughts or opinions?

 

Boy, that looks like a cool device but I bet it's HUGE.....where's it gonna fit under there? And it draws almost .75A.....better upgrade to LED's just to cover this!

Why not just fix your original petcock? When they work correctly they work well........

 

It's not really that big...the pipe thread size is 1/8", so judging from the picture, it might be about an inch and a half across? Maybe two inches?

And .75 amp at 12 volts equals 9 watts. (P = I*V) 9 watts is pretty much negligible.

And as far as repairing the petcock goes...I've read in many different threads that the thing will STILL leak after being rebuilt, which is why people just opt for the ON/OFF petcock. My memory sucks, so that's why I want the flow to be automatic.

 

Flooglebinder, you could always do like I did. I changed to the standard on/off petcock and my wife posted a note on the inside of the garage door that says "CHECK YOUR C*CK". Makes me laugh everytime, and I never forget to turn it off.

Although, I have to say, I really dig your idea too.

 

Too funny. The problem is that I'd need a note like that taped to the inside of my visor, which would make it hard to see. :?

I can just imagine stopping somewhere, shutting off the petcock, then starting the bike up again without turning it back on. Then, as soon as I pull out in front of the semi and need to gun it, it bogs out. 8O

 

Been there, done that. Well, sort of. Right after I changed over to the manual petcock, I went through my carbs because I had been having issues with it running right. I finally got everything buttoned back up and went out for a test ride. Went around the block a couple of times and it ran like a scaulded dog. Came around one more time and pulled out on the main road and it started spitting and sputtering and downright pissing me off. Got it out of the way and kept trying to get it started, but couldn't figure it out. After about 5 minutes of fiddling, I look at the petcock and immediately proceed to slap myself silly.

 

the .156 might be on the edge of smallness, but it may improve your mpg
and don't pull out in front of a semi unless your driving a train

 

You're right...it might restrict the flow. Maybe I should go with this one:

http://www.rvparts.com/index.php?a4c04c ... 2a30509af1

And you're right about the semi, too.

 

now your talk'en

 

If you dont have a fule gage just a res on the petcook youd better keep an eye on your gas in the tank as you don't have that " just incase switch"

 

The 550 Secas have fuel gauges.

 

yeah I switched over to the On-Off-Res petcock that is not vacuum operated. The original one was leaking like crazy and the inside seemed worn. I just need to make sure to remember to turn it off...but this little device might be some insurance to allow it to turn on only when the key is in the ON position...hmmmm wonder how small/big it is?

good find.

 

I can't find any dimensions anywhere for them, so I've just been guess-timating based on the size of the threaded opening on them.

I'm pretty sure even the larger of the two will fit between the carbs and the tank, but I may have to fabricate a bracket of some sort to keep it from flinging and flying around in there...

I'll post my findings after I receive it and get it mounted, for anybody who's interested.

 

well I also have an inline fuel filter there, so I am guessing it won't fit for me.

 

This sounds like an excellent idea. A really good Cure for the leaky petcock problem and a possible theft deterent also. Just install a switch inline with the power lead to the solenoid valve. Fuel still in the bowls would be it if the bike were stolen. Makes for some good thinking too. Make you want to say. Why didn't I think of that.

 

I have one too, and mine takes up quite a bit of room. It's sort of a cone-shaped deal about 2 inches long. I'm going to change it to a more compact style to make room for the shut-off valve.

 

so you'll get the shutoff valve, and two fittings to screw in to make the hose slip onto it and you'll be done. My filter is about the size of the second picture you have there that looks like a cone.

I'll have to think about this. Let us know how it works out...oh and take pictures of it installed so I can get an idea of how big it really is.

 

Well, after I get it plumbed in then I'll have to figure out the best way to wire it to the ignition switch. I'll take pics, and keep everybody posted, though.

 

Did you clean your petcock???....lol... A little piece of rust can cause havoc.
Ive seen rust cause the diaphram to restrict flow...or more commonly...run a tank of gas into your cylinders
:idea: I had problems w/ mine and intermittently...then I lined the tank(3yrs ago)...no problems since.

 

Did you remove your petcock and clean it? Lets face it these XJs are 20+ years old.

A few specks of rust get into your petcock.....wala....the diaphragm stays opened....and u have more gas on the floor and in your cylinders than in the tank. or......or...... the rust hinders the diaphragm to operate properly and you bike is starved for fuel.

Ive seen it in my bikes...and helped others.

#1 install/replace your in-line fuel filter #2 Reline your tank.....no more rust.....no more petcock messing up.

 

LOL......nothing like sayin something twice....I didnt think the 1st post took....sorry for soundin' like mom

 

Already tried cleaning everything, Mom. :lol: