gAs leAk... common?

1981 maxim xj550

Neighbor told me he thinks the petcock needs to be replaced.. Gas leak.
Well, I put some gas in it and started it up last night and it is dripping fuel a lot worse than I thought, and it doesnt appear to be coming from the petcock fuel switch.
Trying my best to see, it appeared to be coming from the part of the motor that is right below the seat.
I am realizing this might now be enough information for a diagnosis, but if you have any suggestions/ideas I would love to hear them. Thanks!

 

Stop running your motor. It sounds like you have gas coming out of your airbox. You problay have a crankcase filled with gas. Your petcock and or carbs need some attention.

 

Ya once I got it started I only ran it for about a min but then noticed the drippin gas a look worse than I thought so I shut it off. It kept dripping down after it was off. Going to try to take a better look next time I can take a day off.
Thanks dude.

 

Get a rebuild kit and rebuild it......

Dave

 

+1 on the advice given. everything is 30yrs old. the petcock is not shutting off and is leaking into the carb bowls which has a stuck open float valve(s). imo also rebuild the gas cap. hope this helps.

 

Correct. This is a "two-pronged" issue; the petcock not shutting off AND one or more float valves not shutting off properly as well.

Petcock tech: http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=25058.html

Mikuni exploded: http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=31061.html

 

Wow thanks everyone. I will take a better look with a friend who knows more about motors than I do and will report back.
Hopefully everyone is having a great weekend!

 

Hi - Im also having probs with petcock still leaking after all rubbers and that rear diaphragm were replaced - maybe I need to stretch spring as well?? It seems to be leaking gas from rear of petcock still. Ideas? Can we purchase anywhere ....WEMOTO??? the complete petcock unit afresh?? Thanks all.