QuestionHi Chris. My brother just bought this bike and we've been tinkering on
weekends. Sealed the tank, yanked and cleaned the carbs,and last night,
after setting the point gap got her to fire off. BUT it only starts with a dose of
starter spray. I did have it go for almost a minute while feathering the
throttle but usually once the spray is burned off the bike stalls. I'm getting
gas past the petcock; I can see it in the in-line filter. The carb boots on the
intake look worn but I don't see any big cracks. Should I go after the boots or
have I missed something on the carb reinstall (or both)? Of course we're
trying to do this as cheaply as possible and the local Kawasaki shop has
begged me not to bring it in. Any advice you have to offer would be
welcome. Thanks, Jesse
AnswerHi Jesse.
Of course the local Kawi shop doesn't want it. The parts-changers that work in the shops are not really trained to deal with bikes more than 10-15 years old.
Check the manifolds and the connections for the manfolds. If you removed the manifolds, did you use a sealant when you reinstalled them to the heads? They could be leaking. If in doubt, replace them. New ones, not used ones.
It is possible that the carbs were not completely cleaned or something is not in place correctly in them. Go through them again and check. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO ADJUST MIXTURE.
Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON
