Motorcycle Repair: 84 Honda Shadow VT700C, vacuum effect, honda shadow

Question
The 101 stuff you put out is great. I just bought an 84 honda shadow VT700C. Been driving it for about a week. Normal riding conditions. I ride about 30 minutes between towns with throttle full open. No real problems tell I pull to a stop or idle for a few seconds. Engine sputters and dies as if the fuel filter is clogged. However if I let the bike sit for about ten minutes it cranks back up and runs fine as if it was just flooded. The previous owner said I would need to open the gas cap everyonce in a while to relieve pressure. Does this vacuum effect have anything to do with my sputter and stall after full throttle riding? How is the gas cap supposed to vent? Is there a better solution than just letting the tank breathe everyonce in awhile or do I need to just make that a part of my startup routine? I am a beginner and my model manual does not dicuss the gas cap operation so please be as specific as possible? I'd like to change the fuel filter regardless. Its hard to tell from the BikeBandit specs but it looks like the filter is under the seat with the battery. Any general suggestions on removing the seats and other plastic shielding without cracking or bending them? Seems to me like the latch is always behind the piece and removing them without the right instructions could lead to a lot of broken parts. Not something I need or want at this point. But like I said its hard to just wait when you want to get moving on the bike maintenance. Thanks in advance for your expertise and help. Warren P

Answer
Hi Warren,

Q-1:  Does this vacuum effect have anything to do with my sputter and stall after full throttle riding?

A:  If the gas cap vent is obstructed, you'll experience problems as described.  


Q-2:  How is the gas cap supposed to vent?

A:  Via ports under the decorative cap cover.


Q-3:  Is there a better solution than just letting the tank breathe every once in awhile or do I need to just make that a part of my startup routine?

A:  Caps tend to get corroded or rustaround the vent ports. The cap can be replaced and the tank may need to be repaired/sealed by chemical process.


Q-4:  Any general suggestions on removing the seats and other plastic shielding without cracking or bending them?

A:  Seat removal is simple. You shouldn't have to use any force or bend the seats to remove them.

Get a copy of the service/repair manual. The manual has illustrated procedures for all maintenance and repairs.


Respectfully,
Mark Shively