Motorcycle Repair: Dies at >45 mph, dyno jet kit, diaghram


Question
QUESTION: I own a 1988 Sportster 883 converted to a 1200.  It's ran well since I bought it, except at higher speeds (>75 mph) where it seemed starve for gas.  Upon cleaning the carb, I noticed the previous owner pinched the slide diaghram when he but the carb top on, putting small slices in it. I replaced the diaghram, and now the starving problem is worse. It idles great, runs around at moderate speeds wonderfully, but as I get over 45-50 mph, it seems to starve. Of course, when I twist the throttle (squirting the gas into the carb) it sputters.  Everything is set up exactly as before except the new diaghram, and possibly the needle (it fell out, and I THINK I have the right number of washers on it- if anything I may have it too high).   Thank you for any advice!

ANSWER: Are you running a stock carb? On a stock carb there are no washers on the needle
Mike

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: It is stock (it says Harley on it) but I believe it has a Thunderslide kit or something in it. The slide that came with the diaghram I bought looked different than the slide that was in the carb. Basically the same, but the slide in my carb has a more rounded, smooth bottom. I know it had 2 small washers on it... but I found another clear washer on the garage floor, and thought maybe it went to the needle also. I really should sweep that floor more, right?  I did install the new slide originally, but as a trouble-shooting attempt, I put the original slide back in to see if it made a difference (same needle, same new diaghram, but no joy.

Answer
It probably had a dyno jet kit installed, which usually has 3 washers. Also, witht he jet kit yuo get a drill bit to open up the vaccumn hole in the slide, so the new slide has to small of a hole. SInce they supply the bit, I cant tell you what size it is.
Your best bet is to get another dyna-jet kit with the slide. Then you will have all the parts you need
Good luck and happy riding
Mike