How to know if my pilot jets are clogged

[ivany]

Hey all, I have a 2000 GS500E. It's got about 45K on it, I drive it regularly-ish (every ~week or so). I've read many threads where people mention that pilot jets will get clogged over time. I've had the bike since 2006 and haven't had the carbs open, at least as long as I've owned it. It runs and starts fine, if it's chilly and the bike has been sitting for weeks it can require a few extra cranks but usually it starts up quickly. It also idles fine (~1200 rpm) once warmed up, and I don't touch the idle stop much.

Should I consider opening up the carbs and cleaning things out, or leave well enough alone?

[ShowBizWolf]

Based on what you described, if it were mine, I'd leave well enough alone. You know that saying, "If it ain't broke..."

I've owned my '98 since 2012 and I've never needed to get into the carbs yet either... and I'm very thankful for that. I actually just recently picked up a used set of carbs to take apart and learn from in an effort to be better prepared for when the time comes.

[mr72]

You will know the pilot jets are clogged because it will quit doing what yours does.



SBW is right on. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

Usually what gets the pilot jets clogged is letting it sit unused for months.

[HPP8140]

Once you have a known good set of carbs  ...just don't let the bike sit too long and you will most likely never need to dismantle them. The most you will need to do is remove the bottom cover to replace worn float needles.

I've owned many GS500's and never taken carbs apart....run some good gas with agents like shell vpower through them before that.

[Bluesmudge]

I have a 2006 with 53,000 miles. I have also never opened the carbs up to clean them (just to re-jet or replace rubber parts). If you never let a tank of gas sit for more than 3 months before running it through the bike then you will never have to clean the carbs. You can go even longer if you can find 100% gasoline (aka clear premium, aka non-ethanol).
Needing a carb cleaning usually happens when someone stops riding for 6+ months over a winter period without draining the carb bowls. Or when something else, like an electrical issue, takes the bike off the road for months/years without draining the carbs and tank.