Motorcycle Repair: carb problem?, cause havoc, tiny particles


Question
michael am in the process of trying to restore a 1980 kawasaki kz750g twin.the bike has 3445 miles on it. the bike has been setting for 18 yrs.i have cleaned the tank and carb..2problems 1.. turns slow when starting...2 starts good and runs good at high speed,around 1500 rpms it starts running rough and stalls. can you help? thanks

Answer
John,
 Not my area but I think that bike is equipped w/ an electronic ignition so you don't have all the variables that points will give.  Assuming the igniter unit is ok, you are probably dealing w/ a carburator problem.  Here is some basic info I've given others on cleaning and setting up carbs.:
Make sure air/fuel adjustments are not the culpret, you'll need to experiment with these, trial and error, usually 1 and 1/2 turns out from seated. Be absoulutly sure all orrifaces and jets are clean and not damaged. If someone used anything but compressed air and solvents to clean these they could have damaged the precise venturi action that takes place. Carburators can get pretty complex and require tuning from time to time. In addition there are different systems and effects that come into play at different throttle positions. Performance can be fine at one throttle position and terrible at another. All you can do is look closely for damage and carefully adjust all tolorances according to a good service manual. Do not overlook the float level and condition of the needle valve, be very sure you are not starving for fuel. In relation make sure fuel flow is unobstructed and use a good in-line fuel filter from the tank to the carb. Even tiny particles in the fuel can get logged in critical areas and cause havoc.

Hope this helps,
Mike