Hello,

It’s been a long time since I’ve been here last, read on and you’ll see why.
Problem: The bike will only run with the choke out and with very slight pressure on the throttle. If I try to increase throttle or close the choke it dies out.
Background: The bike has sat unused in the barn for 6-7 years. It was purchased new in 2004 for my youngest son. Some years later he went away to college, and then stayed in the area to start his professional career. Now my wife would like to use the bike for her horse chores. Here is what I did so far to get it to start. I pulled the plug and sprayed Kroil into the hole and let it sit. I pulled the gas tank (empty from drying out) and cleaned out the varnish in the bottom. I also pulled the bottom valve and screen and cleaned them. I then installed a new battery. With tank off, I put a cloth over the spark plug hole, put the bike in third gear, and pushed it forward to see if the piston was free – it was. Then I put it in neutral and hit the starter to clear out any excess Kroil. Installed new spark plug. Installed gas tank, added one quart gas and some carb cleaner and some ethanol fuel protector. Then I tried to start it. It didn’t take long before it tried to start. By playing with the choke and throttle, I was able to get it to idle if I left the choke on and kept just a slight amount of pressure on the throttle, but that’s all it would do. I’m sure there is varnish in the carb.
Question: If I keep it idling as is, will it eventually clean out the carb and run correctly? Or, do I need to pull the carb and clean or rebuild it? I was trying to not have to pull the carb.
Thank for the help.

Chip

 

I forgot to mention the air box was open and the air cleaner was removed during this process.

 

Yes, you will have dirt or water in the carb. It is unlikely to clear itself. An old trick that sometimes works is to remove the air filter, then rev up to the limiter and put your hand over the intake for a few seconds, the resultant vacuum can pull dirt out of the jets, but honestly you are better removing the carb and blowing the jets and bowl out with compressed air.

 

Yeah, I was afraid I'd have to pull the carb. I was trying to avoid it because I have major problems with my back. Oh well, you have to do what you have to do.

Do you think I should get a rebuild kit while I have it out and apart?

Should I re-jet while I have it apart? I live in southeast PA. What jets would you recommend if so?

Thanks merryman!

 

I'd leave the jets alone.
Cleaning of a carb don't mean you need a rebuild kit.

 

Once disassembled, can I use brake cleaner on the carb housing (metal parts), as I don't have any spray carb cleaner.

 

I never use any cleaner, but have an air line with a "blow gun". This seems to shift everything, fuel itself is a fairly good solvent.

 

Thanks to all for the help.

Now I just need to pull the carb and clean it.

I'll be back if I have problems.