Leaky peacock or leaky float needle?

I learned yesterday that I have a pretty common problem: gas in the crankcase (1982 550 Seca) From reading a number of threads, I understand it's most likely the petcock or float needles causing the problem. Is one more likely to be one versus the other? Does it make sense to rebuild the petcock first and see if the problem is resolved or am I merely delaying the inevitable carb project?

The PO said he had just rebuilt the carbs. Maybe not very well(?).

I welcome your advice.

 

Unless you left the fuel cock set to "PRI" the answer is both.

The float needles should stop the carburetors from over filling. The automatic fuel cock should turn off the gas when the motorcycle isn't running as a safety back up. So unless you left it on "PRI" (which defeats the safety) both leaked.

 

Rebuild the petcock as Mi instructed then perform the "hat trick". The inevitable is that your bike will continue to have troubles until the carbs are "right". All the help you'll need is here. Tah-dah!

Gary

 

Thanks both for the advice. The carbs scare me a little due to my lack of experience, but I guess they aren't going to fix themselves!