QuestionI have a '99 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic w/21.8K miles. It is stock except for exhaust which was changed out 3 yrs ago. It has always been dealer maintained. I use Amoco\BP premium gas. Two months ago, I started expiriencing carb flooding. Symptoms: while riding, the engine sputters and dies out (can only keep it going if I hold the throttle open just enough so that it doesn't die out) and leaks fuel from carb. Can only start the bike if I hold throttle open all the way. Bike has been into dealer's service 3 times for the same problem. First 2 times, the carb was flushed and all connections reset. Third time in, carb was pulled out and bathed, float and needle valve were replaced. Service Dept. has kept the bike for a total of 4 weeks and problem remains.
What else could cause this problem. What can be looked at, done to resolve this problem once and for all. Thanks for your help.
AnswerHi Al,
Conditions that may cause this problem are:
1) Varnished interior needle valve spring
2) Split/defective float bowl overflow pipe
3) Defective float
4) Rust/contamination caught between needle valve and seat
5) Worn Needle valve seat
I would need to investigate to give accurate diagnosis.
Split overflow pipes are very difficult to see. A very fine hair line crack will leak.
Visit: "www.vroc.org/mailarchive/varchive/threads.html" This is a good Vulcan owner's resource website.
Kepp me advised of what you find. My email address is: mshively1@woh.rr.com
Respectfully,
Mark Shively
