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Main Area => General GS500 Discussion => Topic started by: Del on September 20, 2003, 03:37:00 PM

Title: Carb problems?
Post by: Del on September 20, 2003, 03:37:00 PM
Hi all. I'm new to this board as well as the GS500.

I bought a used '93 model about 4 months ago with only 2800 miles on it in excellent condition (whoever had it certainly didn't ride it much).  I got it from a local dealer and have since put another 300 miles on it with no problems.  The dealer is fairly reputable and they assured me everthing on the bike was inspected (they even put a new battery in).

Now, whenever I get up to about 30-40 mph the throttle lags badly.  Then, the idle lowers to the point of the bike stalling.  However, the bike still runs ok with no throttle problems at lower revs and speeds.

I've already replaced the spark plugs (very simple) and tried adjusting the idle.  I thought it might be the carb so today I put some Gumout carb cleaner in the tank and it helped a little (the bike didn't stall this time) but the problem is still there.

I also printed out the carb rebuilding section of the how-to pages assuming I'd have to do it.  But, before I pull everything apart and give myself half a day to put it back together, I wonder if anyone has some suggestions on whether I should check something else first.  Or am I thinking in the right direction?  With such low miles on the bike, should I give the Gumout more time to work?  Do I need to worry about the valves yet?

Also, there is some rust on the interior of the gas tank.
Title: Re: Carb problems?
Post by: Rashad on September 20, 2003, 06:40:47 PM
Quote from: DelHi all. I'm new to this board as well as the GS500.

I bought a used '93 model about 4 months ago with only 2800 miles on it in excellent condition (whoever had it certainly didn't ride it much).  I got it from a local dealer and have since put another 300 miles on it with no problems.  The dealer is fairly reputable and they assured me everthing on the bike was inspected (they even put a new battery in).

Now, whenever I get up to about 30-40 mph the throttle lags badly.  Then, the idle lowers to the point of the bike stalling.  However, the bike still runs ok with no throttle problems at lower revs and speeds.

I've already replaced the spark plugs (very simple) and tried adjusting the idle.  I thought it might be the carb so today I put some Gumout carb cleaner in the tank and it helped a little (the bike didn't stall this time) but the problem is still there.

I also printed out the carb rebuilding section of the how-to pages assuming I'd have to do it.  But, before I pull everything apart and give myself half a day to put it back together, I wonder if anyone has some suggestions on whether I should check something else first.  Or am I thinking in the right direction?  With such low miles on the bike, should I give the Gumout more time to work?  Do I need to worry about the valves yet?

Also, there is some rust on the interior of the gas tank.

Ok, first things first... BEFORE YOU RUN IT AGAIN...install an inline fuel filter between the petcock and the carbs. Just disconnect the line from the carb T-fitting, and splice a fuel filter in there. That will save you from doing this carb rebuild every other month.

Ok.. definitely do a rebuild. The gumout stuff etc.. wont scrub away thick grime and rust. Clean everything. The carbs can be fully dissassembled and cleaned and put back together with ease in about 30 minutes. I used to think it was hard and was intimidated until i actually did it. Go for it and get it done and youll be proud of yourself :thumb:

Also, replace any o-rings that look worn, and be careful using any harsh cleaners on the rubber bits in the carbs. Also, check your float levels.. and a good carb sync wouldnt be a  bad idea.

You say you just got it and only put 300 miles on it? If this dealer is reputable at all, they should look at it and fix it free of charge.

After all, you just bought the damn thing!
Title: Carb problems?
Post by: Del on September 20, 2003, 07:41:45 PM
Thanks for the info.

I'll probably take care of it within the next couple days.