Spring is comming and the weather is dry as of sunday in London. So, today I decided to give my GS a quick 5 minute wash. This was with a coin operated Jet soaker which I used intermittently and mostly from afar. The thing is, starting up my bike after doesn't seem right. It won't idle below 3k rpm unless given loads of choke, then above 3k it zooms off. I turned the idle mixture screw but it hasn't helped all that much.
Are there any possible problems that spring to mind?
As well as this, can you please tell me what are the side affect of a rusty chain which is always lubed well inside.
Thanks Simon
Do you mean that you turned the idle speed screw with the knob under the carbs, or the recessed individual mixture srews under the carb? I'd begin by checking your spark plug leads, then have a look at other ignition connectors. After that, I'd look for a soggy air filter (not likely) and drain the carbs. Also, you might want to check for water in your gas tank.
I would think that surface rust on the outside plates on a chain won't hurt anything. If the inner plates are rusted, the o-rings that seal the pins will wear out in short order, your grease will leak out, while allowing dirt and crap in. In that cast, the chain is pretty well knackered. :cheers:
Spring???? that must have been Monday morning then, 72 miles South it's been peeing down for what seems like months. Mon 9th was freezin' but bright and blue.
I think JLK is probably right, incidently in my owner manual it says don't jetwash. On reflection probably good advice.
The fact it doesn't run well after a jetwash could simply be due to the fact you have cooled the engine right down by spraying water all over it. In effect, you are starting from cold again.
I'm speaking from experience here as I am too lazy to wash mine by hand most of the time.
Don't put a pressure washer any where near things like wheel bearings or an O-ring chain - it's liable to force water into the places where grease should be, with the inevitable results.