Cleaning the carbs

Just purchased an 1981 Maxim XJ650 for my first bike, and I'm pretty sure it's getting gas in the oil.

I've spent quite a bit of time reading the various posts here, and I've been able to gather that carbs probably need some work along w/ the the petcoc valve. I have virtually no experience with engine work beyond changing oil, so my question is, should I have a mechanic at a Yamaha dealership do the carb work or attempt to this myself? I wouldn't mind learning, but i'd hate to have to tow my bike to the shop the fix something I may not be able to back together. Any insight/suggestions? Thanks!

 

Wendall:

I'd give this intro thread a day or so to breathe. You might be nearby a couple of Members who can wrench and help bail you out.

If that don't happen ... I would NOT suggest you undertaking a Carb Overhaul as your "Introduction and initiation into XJ-Bike Ownership"

The Carb Cleaning process requires some special tools and skill to initiate repairs if there is a complication requiring going beyond the steps of a routine disassembly and overhaul. Not something you want to be doing by yourself at the beginning of the riding season.

 

I would agree with Rick BUT...

if you have a buddy that likes to wrench (we all do - usually it's us though!) get your friend to spearhead the job with you assisting. Great time for some beers and to learn a few things.

 

I just did mine it wasn't hard, but you could encounter some issues you won't be able to solve. I was lucky (If we forget about my little incident...http://www.xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=4663.html)

If they look ok, I would go for it, but if they are rusty or really dirty I would pass.
As Rick said, you could be getting yourself into a world of pain...even if they look ok.

 

Don't break an Intake Manifold Cap Screw in a hurry to get them off and cleaned.

Break a Manifold bolt and this Summer riding time is going to be cut short while the head comes off for drilling.

Do NOT go it alone first time.
There's too many Land Mines that can go off and mess you up for trying.

 

Not attempting to hijack, but Rick's post has me wondering if the price quote of $430 to refurbish the carbs "Like New" on a 85 700 Maxim X with Mikuni carbs(I'm getting for free with 2300 miles on it), is worth it to another newbie with a bike that needs obvious carb work from sitting for 15 years.

I received the quote from http://www.motorcyclecarbs.com/ They know how rare these bikes and rebuild kits parts are.

Any other good carb rebuilders out there to check into.

Thanks

 

There are exceptionally good Mail Order Service's that can clean the carbs for under $250.00

If the Carbs require parts or kits ... it will increase the price accordingly.

 

Come on Rick, from my lurking here, your the Obi Won Kenobi of XJ's. Give a wannabe Maxim X rider some leads on a good alternative mail order for carb rebuilding.

TIA

 

Thanks for the advice. As I have already scheduled a tune-up with a shop nearby, I'll ask them about the cleaning/rebuilding the carbs and checking the petcock valve.