Motorcycle Repair: suzuki marauder 800cc, suzuki marauder vz800, vacuum hoses


Question
  My local Suzuki repair shop can not fix the following problem. My '98 Suzuki Marauder (vz800) will begin to stutter at 75mph and gets worse at 80mph. The bike runs real strong all the way up to 74mph. It happens with a load on the engine. The problem goes away going down hill at the same speeds. It returns if you get back into the throttle above 75mph.  It is as if you turn the spark off for just a second and then back on. The bike has been tuned, new air filters and new jets installed (all to "fix" the problem) and the local shop has been through the electrics and found no problem. The bike is still at their shop and I really would like to get the problem fixed.
Perhaps you could direct me to some one else if you are unable to help.
Thanks for your time. Joe Hall sailw_u2@yahoo.com


Answer
Hi Joe,

Good description of symptoms and problem. I'll need more intel for diagnosis.

Are there any aftermarket parts on this MC?

Describe the repair and maintenance history. Have the carbs ever been cleaned due to fuel varnishing after periods storage?

Instead of mph or rpm, use throttle grip opening positions when describing carburetor and engine performance problems. I suspect the problem occurs between 1/2 and full throttle. Is this accurate?

You may not be able to answer this, but describe the appearance of the spark plugs.

Again, you may be able to answer... what is cylinder compression? Perform a leak-down test if necessary.

What is your climate? (location)

Did shop techs find any kind of contamination or sediment in fuel, float bowls, or gas tank?

Was fuel filter obstructed, replaced, checked?

Are fuel and vacuum hoses in good condition? Vacuum hoses collaspe when weak.

Answer these questions the best you can. We'll go from there.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively