Resurecting the dead

[The Original Ghostrider VRCC #427]

Ok, it's time to wake up the Valk after sitting for over 5 years. I did jump start it about 2 years ago. I know I need to change out the gas and a new battery. I did put Seafoam in when I parked her. Checked and it doesn't appear any issue with a hydrolock. She's just been sitting. Tires are a little low but still holding air. Thinking desmog and have no idea what the carbs are like inside. Looking for suggestions on anything I should be looking for or what not to do. Thanks, Bob.

[Dennis from Blythe]

I would definitely change out the gas, give it some fresh stuff. Maybe drain the carbs, let that fresh gas get the floats and needles in them 6 carbs loosened up. I would also change out the oil and filter. Then fire her up.

Keep an eye on the carbs while its running,  if a float is stuck up, the needle won't shut the gas flow off and the gas will over flow out of the carb.

That happened to me once.  I just shut off the bike, then shut off the gas at the tank. I than banged on the carb with a small rubber mallet a few times.  Turn the gas back on, fired it back up. It was fine after that.

Good luck Bob, I don't think yer gonna have any problems getting her fired up.  It is a Honda 

[BigMac (SoCal)]

Hi Bob, good to hear from you. Over the past couple of years I have worked on a few bikes that have not been started for months and 1 for over a year. If gas has been left in the carbs for as long as you say I'm afraid your going to have to pull the carbs. The slow jets will be clogged and no amount of sea foam or clean gas is going to desolve the varnish left behind. Also the float valves may be dried and cracked and will not hold back fuel. I have actually had to use a very small wire or pick to chip it out. I've had to take the carbs out sometimes 2 or 3 times before the bike would run like it should. I have to say I got really good had taking them out and back in though. If you have any questions please feel free to call me anytime.

Good luck Bob and it would be great to see you back on the road with us.

Dave  

[The emperor has no clothes]

I let my standard sit for a year. No amount of Techron would clear them up. Had to pull the carbs. It's not too bad, I'd say the hardest part is getting the airbox back on correctly.

[Dennis from Blythe]

My idea sure sounds a lot easier,  but I haven't let my bike sit for any length of time. 5 years is a length of time for sure.   ???

[The emperor has no clothes]

My idea sure sounds a lot easier,  but I haven't let my bike sit for any length of time. 5 years is a length of time for sure.   ???

Oh it's definitely worth a shot. I just had no luck.

[Shepard]

Hey Dave and Dennis, I too have let the valk sit for a bit. Luckily I took it for a spin every couple of months and it still starts right up and runs great. I finally have been getting enough work to spend a little money on my poor neglected bike and hopefully will be attending a ride soon.

I sure have missed this club and tried to stay in touch with Sue & George, but even that has been awhile now.

Shepard

[BigMac (SoCal)]

Man it's been a while Shepard, Good to hear from you.

Dave

[The Original Ghostrider VRCC #427]

When I checked the tank, the gas had a green tint to it under LED flashlight. Still very clear but never seen that color of gas. Meantime been watching a lot of videos on pulling and rebuilding the carbs. The other day I started cleaning up the garage so I have room to work on the bike. Next build a new workbench and shelves to put the parts on. Couple of weeks ago went looking at some new bikes as well and came home thinking but it's not a Valk. Even the new Valk just don't feel right. I did like the BMW K1600GTL but the maintenance costs are crazy. I'd rather put money in what I have then buy something new and finance a small country.

[BigMac (SoCal)]

That's the smart move Bob and I don't think you'll regret it. My bike now has almost 134,000 miles on it and it runs like new. I think even if the motor gave up I'd just buy a parts bike and put a new used motor in her. Most bikes seem small to me and since I have my bike fixed up to fit me it make no sense to spend a fortune to buy a new one.

Dave