Motorcycle Repair: 1981 honda ct110, honda ct110, jet needle

Question
Hi, have 1981 ct110 just got it running,new plug, cleaned carb and installed carb kit, checked valve clearence, timing with new points. it runs and idles fine but sputters once you get on the throttle. it is running rich and smokes, i have rejetted to smaller jet, needle is on top clip. it runs fine when we remove the end cap on the air filter box. any info would be appreciated! thanks, chris

Answer
Chris, the engine is running too rich.  Try lowering the float level 2-3 mm.  That will improve it but it may require a little more than that depending on how out of adjustment it is.  If you have a manual, it will tell you what the float level should be and how to set it.  You need to get the float level right or it won't run right.  If you set it too low you could damage the engine to the point of burning a hole in the top of the piston.  So it's important to get it right.

Regards
Rich