Ask the Editors: Float Height Flowing
Height is critical.
In stock form the the float height = 12-14mm (0.47-0.55inches) though when it comes to a carburetor’s float (or fuel) height, there really isn’t a number setting system that you can simply dial in and forget. Rather, it is a symptomatic setting based on the performance of your machine and one especially sensitive to changes to the intake or exhaust. Or another way of saying it: it rarely just goes out of whack for no reason.
How can you tell if yours is in need of adjustment? Well let’s start by talking about what it is and how it works. The float, like the name implies, floats at the top of the fuel in the float bowl. It attaches to a needle within the float valve. When the fuel level rises, the needle pushes its way into the seat and it stops the flow. It’s really that simple.
So when your float level is too high, the engine will run rich. Your throttle response will slow and often you will actually see raw gasoline coming out of the overflow ports of the carb.
If the float level is too low, the engine runs lean, there will be stuttering and hesitation when you get on the throttle.
While the following guide does not pertain specifically to your machine, this is the step-by-step of how to diagnose improper float height that we use: Click here.
