QuestionHi Bill,
I read your answer about the 1970 cb350 having idling issues and high RPM. Sounds like the same issues I am having. I have adjusted the points and timing properly but after that it was idling anywhere between 2K and 3K. Took it in and mechanic adjusted the points again statically. (we adjusted them with a strobe). He said that fixed the issue and then I took it out for a ling ride. About 20 minutes into it I would come to a stop and the bike would just die(not idle) We adjusted the idle screws and then it was back to idling at above 2K. I am going to try and see about the plate behind the points and weight lubrication. If that doesn't work should I look at getting a rebuild on the carbs? Any help would be appreciated...
AnswerTJ.... Do the simple stuff first....
Make sure the valves and camchain are adjusted properly. Then, check the compression. If you have about 160-175 psi in each side, then you can go troubleshooting the other stuff.
Take the points plate off and check the advance/retard function of the spark advancer before you do anything else. Once that is cleaned, lubricated and reinstalled, then set the ignition timing (static is fine), then fire it up, warm it up and then set the idle speed screws/mixture screws so you have optimum running on both sides.
Once you have the foundation built, for proper engine and ignition function, then you can go into carburetor issues and take a close look at the intake manifolds for signs of air leaks where the spigot of the carb fits into the manifold rubber. If the manifolds are intact, then you can investigate the carburetors for correct jetting calibration, float levels and inspect the o-rings and all jets for blockages. There are about 5 different carb calibrations for 350s, depending on the series code stamped on the web above the inlet.
All of this assumes that you don't have throttle cable issues from improper routing or kinked cable strands internally.
Bill Silver
