Carbs Rebuild

[Rigger]

I have a 2001 Valkyrie that has been stored away. It will run but does not idle well. I would like to know what can I try before I have them rebuilt. I had sea foam additive in the gas when I put it away and would start it up once in while. If anyone knows someone that can work on this let me know. I live in Savannah, GA. I can take it some where close to get it repair. I was hoping to sell it, but rather have running right before I sell it.

[Pete]

Cleaning the carbs would probably resolve the issue.

You can try doing it chemically using Berrymans, Techron, Honda or any good cleaner, but i is usually best to remove, dis-assemble and clean them.

There is lots of info on this site about this, use search to find the comments.

[da prez]

  I would try the berrymans B-12 first. Use a strong dose , run at slow speeds and then let set for a day. Fire it up and run the fuel out. Refill with fresh fuel and run it .  If you still have problems , then go into the carbs.
  It will be disputed by some , but is worth a try. Be sure to check for vacuum leaks.

                                              da prez

[Ricky-D]

Messing with the carburetors is not something for the novice.

Use plenty of gas additive and ride it.  Starting the engine occasionally along with ethanol enriched gasoline

are probably the main contributors to the poor running.

***

[Mr.BubblesVRCCDS0008]

There are some very good videos on U-tube about how to remove ,rebuild (clean) and reinstall the carbs. I just did mine on my I/S wasn't very hard and the videos are very well made.  It does take some time though. The I/S requires more time because of the pods and foglights.

[hukmut]

When you decide to rebuild your carburetors, BE SURE to replace the float needle valves. The little springs get weak and will leak, possibly causing a hydrolock . They may also be causing the symptoms you described.


Ride safe...

[Houdini]

Rigger, I went through the same experience last year and I fixed the problem with Barrymans.  The thread is <a href="http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,80943.0.html">here</a>  but the important part is;

I put two cans of B12 in a full tank, wrapped a bungy around the throttle to apply just enough pressure to hold the throttle in place, started her up and twisted the throttle until she started to stumble.  I put a fan in front of the radiator and let the bike sit there running for about 25 - 30 minutes.

She ran like a champ commuting to work today; maybe I'll rebuild the carbs next year.    

Let me add something to that post, I had a smaller fan blowing on the exhaust pipes also, to much idling and the exhaust will overheat and the pipes will change colors.