Motorcycle Repair: 1984 Honda Shadow VT700C starting problems, internal passages, honda shadow

Question
Hi Rich,

 I have a 1984 Honda Shadow VT700C and I'm having some problems with. It starting running rough on me so I pulled of the carbs and gave them a real good cleaning and rebuilt them. Now I have a real had time getting it started and when it does start I have to keep the choke all the way open to keep it running and when I try to give it gas it wants to stall. I have no idea what to do. I have checked the air intake boots for cracks and changed the fuel and air filters. also new spark plugs. Please help. I miss riding.

Answer
Jason, the engine is running too lean.  It's not getting the fuel needed to run properly.  It could be that there still crud in the internal passages or the jets are still partially plugged or it may just be the float levels are not set correctly.  It could also be the fuel pump isn't delivering the right amount of fuel because of a plugged fuel filter.

It's all due to the lack of fuel.  

Regards
Rich