Motorcycle Repair: Honda Shadow Carbuerator, vacuum petcock, carb adjustments

Question
Hi Bill! I was hoping to get some advice on where I can find info on how to fix my '87 Honda Shadow (550 CC). Last fall it ran fine, but would occasionally backfire. I figured the jets needed cleaned out, so I cleaned the carb and jets. Now I can't get it to run right. With adjustments I can get it to start and somewhat idle, but if I try to take off, it will die. I assume that I've got some adjustments off from when I cleaned it. I would rather fix it myself than take it to a bike shop if possible. I have the manual for the bike, but it doesn't really talk about carb. adjustments. Any advice is greatly appreciated!!

Thanks!
Chris

Answer
Chris, we are off to a rocky start here...  1987 Shadow 550? Is it a VT500C? or VT600C?

Depending on the model you have, the vacuum petcock diaphragm often fails, causing restricted fuel flow and an air leak to the carburetor.

http://www.cmsnl.com/products/16953-me5-025-cover_16953me5005/

If you can get it running at idle for a few moments, shut it off and drain the carb float bowls to see how much fuel comes out. Take a look at the spark plugs to see if they are showing signs of too much or too little fuel. Check all the vacuum hoses connected to the intake manifolds for leaks and the attached diaphragms for failures.

Bill Silver