Motorcycle Repair: Fuel leak, yamaha xt 250, float bowl

Question
Chris, I have never taken apart a motorcycle carb before. What solvent should I use to clean it?

What do you mean by resealing the fuel tank? There is no leakage from it

Are parts very easy to come by for this bike...fuel, oil, air filters?

Thanks again,

John.

PS. I love the Internet mostly for the ability to get info like this and good on you for volunteering your expertise.



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Followup To
Question -
Hi Chris,

Hi Chris,

I have a 1982 Yamaha XT 250. I have not started it for some time (2 yrs). Anyway, last week I got it out and started it up. There was a small amount of gas in the tank. I filled up the tank about half way. It started fine but when I opened the fuel valve (for both reserve and main fuel) a stream of fuel comes out what appears to be a drainage hose  that is clear in color. The engine will keep running with the fuel streaming out and shuts down, as one would expect when I shut the fuel valve. There are two such hoses that run just behind the engine. If I stop up one, the fuel just comes out the other. Can you tell me how to stop this? I have a suspicion that gas sitting in the tank for so long is the culprit.

Also, what should I do to this bike to get it ready for more regular riding (at least once a week)? It was last tuned up about 6 years ago and only has 5000 kilometers on it.

Thanks in advance for your help.

John
Answer -
Hi John.
 You have a sticking float valve in the float bowl.

 As far as getting it ready to ride, here's what you need to do.

1)  Empty and reseal the fuel tank.  DO NOT USE ANY OLD FUEL.  It will undo any work that you have done on the fuel system.  Use only fresh fuel.

2)  Replace the fuel line.

3)  Remove, disassemble and completely clean the carb.

4)  Check the valves as per the repair manual.

5)  Check all wiring for external cracks and check major systems for shorts and internal breaks.

6)  Check all fuses for function and connection.

7)  Check and clean all connections.

8)  Replace fuel, air and oil filters.

9)  Chance all oils in engine.

10)  Check function of brakes.  Replace pads and shoes as needed.

11)  Replace all cables.  Choke, clutch and throttle.

12)  Check tires.  If they are cracked, replace them.  There is no fix for dry rot and your life depends on the tires not blowing out on you.

 Anything beyond that is up to you.  But remember to consider safety above all other things.

Good luck.
FALCON

Answer
Hi John.
 Even though there are no leaks in the tank, there was old fuel which left residue that will contaminate the fuel system.  Resealing the fuel tank seals out the residue and prevents future contamination.

 As far as what to use for cleaning the carbs, just use what you can get at the autoparts store.

Good luck.
FALCON