Question I bought my CB350 2 years ago, 1973 with 7500 miles on it, great shape. I really enjoy riding in the area. Runs like a sewing machine. Didn't ride it for about 3-4 months, now, it starts right up, but won't idle, and runs rough at slow speed. I think trouble is in the left carb. Slow jet maybe? What do I need to do. I have manuals, but am a little leery messing with the carbs. Should I try to tackle this? If I take it slow? (Lol). Everyone I talk to say these bikes are easy to work on. I really would like to learn about cleaning the carbs if this is a fairly common problem. I did put some carb cleaner in the gas, and have been riding it short distances, and it does seem to be improving a bit. Any and all advice is appreciated. Randy P.S. I am in Charlotte, N.C.
AnswerRandy,
it may be plugged carb jets and would require
taking the various jets out and cleaning them.
There are also passageways in the carb body
itself that can plug up. A good soak in some
carb cleaner is helpful there.
Here is a good link to a carb rebuild/cleaning.
It was written for Suzuki's but applies generally
to most japanese carbs. Has lots of pictures
too, so you can see if it looks like something
you might want to tackle.
http://www.thegsresources.com/gs_carbrebuild.htm
You can download the whole "pdf" or use it online.
Your bike also uses points and condensors,
(under the top shiny left cover)
you may want to check the point contacts
and see if they open okay when the motor turns.
They are set at about .014" inch gap.
Then you move the back plate until
they break open on the "F" mark on your engine
flywheel or rotor. You will have running problems
if the points are bad.
Also check the air filter and spark plugs.
The gas tap should have a steady flow
of fuel to the carbs as well.
They can also get plugged up.
