Motorcycle Repair: starting, yamaha maxim, dodge dealership

Question
Hello Mr. Shively
          My name is Aaron Williams and I recently purchased a 1985 Yamaha Maxim with 19,000 miles on it from one of my co-workers.  He is an automotive mechanic here at the Dodge dealership where I work.  When I initially purchased the vehicle from Joe back in November I had test drove the bike and made a deal, I didn't arrange to pick up the bike from him until 2 weeeks ago, now the bike will not start.  There is a hose that run from the bottom of the carburator to the bottom of the motor that permits the fuel to run freely to the ground when I try to start the vehicle.  The vehicle started one time but when I tried to give it throttle it stayed at the same rpm for several more seconds then cut off completely.  Someone that supose to be a motorcycle expert told me that I need to have the carbs cleaned which I am finding in this area to run between 250.00 if I remove myself and take to the mechanic to as much as 600.00 if I take the bike to a mechanic and have the mechanic remove the carburator clean it, put back on and check it out.  Other people are telling me that it may not be the carburator.  I don't know anything about a mortorcycle and feel that I may be taken advantage of when I take it to a motorcycle person.  Is there anything that I can try before I start putting a lot of money into this old bike.  Basically it won't start.  Thank you.
Aaron Williams

Answer
Hi Aaron,

The carbs have varnished and will need cleaned. Sounds easy, but it requires thorough care and some time. You probably can do this yourself at home with a few inexpensive supplies and some basic tools.

Carburetor cleaning around Dayton, Ohio shops go for about $280.00 for a typical in-line four cylinder engine such as your Maxim. That's with the tech removing, reinstalling, and sychronizing the carbs.

Send me an email address as requested in my directions. I'll return several files on cleanin carbs for you to review. Then, you can decide if you can handle the repairs.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively