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CX Customization and Modifications
Started by Ryan at 07-21-2010 12:58 PM. Topic has 6 replies.
 
 
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07-21-2010, 12:58 PM
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Ryan

Joined on 09-15-2007
Lethbridge, Ab, Canada
Posts 105
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Hi all,
Been having a hell of a time getting my bike to run right. She isn't firing on the left cylinder. Here's what I've tried to no avail (am open to ideas):
1.) Checked the plug/swapped it with the one from the right cylinder
2.) Ditto coil
So with that I ruled out spark. Next, I removed the carbs (what a PITA!), soaked them in vinegar and gave them a cleaning. Still won't run on the left cylinder and now the right carb is draining gas like a sieve out the the bottom...
Help!
1979 CX500D 1980 CB750f
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07-21-2010, 1:55 PM
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Blue fox

Joined on 04-18-2008
COLUMBIA, MISSOURI
Posts 1,533
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Do you actually have a spark on the left side? Pull the left plug and ground it to the engine, not the valve cover, and crank it. You should see a fat spark at the plug. If you have a spark, then it is probably carb problems.
Carb cleaning requires more than vinegar soaking and blowing out. All jets, tubes, screws, and rubber parts MUST be removed, examined, and cleaned. You don't have to separate the carbs if you don't feel qualified to realign them, just leave them attached to each other. This isn't a 20 minute job, I would guess to do it right, you should plan on 4-5 hours on the cleaning. Maybe more, depending on your skill level and how bad they are. There are many posts on how to do this, and Larry (LRCXed) has a book on the complete procedure. It is written with the novice in mind, so most people can follow it easily.
The draining on the right carb is likely a stuck float, or a cracked overflow tube. Both can usually be easily fixed. Just tapping the side of the carb with a screwdriver handle usually will unstick a float.
Blue Fox 1983 GL650I, 79-CX500C, 1980 CX500C, 82-GL500I, 82-GL1100, 76-CB550, 81-CB750C, 73-CB350F, 71-CT90,
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Yesterday, 9:12 AM
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Ryan

Joined on 09-15-2007
Lethbridge, Ab, Canada
Posts 105
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I have spark, with both plugs tested with the above method.
I disassembled the carbs, took out the jets and the big long tube on the one, but couldn't/didn't know how to get the needle out. Do you think I need to "go deeper"?
And now, both carbs are leaking out the drains. The tubes are intact and I was not able to tap the carbs to loose the floats. Is it possible I assembled something wrong that is causing this? Or are both just stuck as I continue to be unlucky in this?
1979 CX500D 1980 CB750f
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Yesterday, 10:02 AM
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RichNCT

Joined on 03-02-2006
Connecticut, USA
Posts 3,463
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Look for rust/debris in the fuel stream, or just install an inline filter. Try testing the float valve by connecting a longer fuel line to the carbs before you reinstall them, holding them level. Might save frustration from install/remove procedure which gets old real fast. Unless the float/spring-clip/valve is being installed incorrectly, crud in the float valve seat is likely. Does the tank look rusty inside? Again, an inline filter is cheap/easy insurance. Check float level/adj while they're out, they can be inadvertantly bent while handling them. Did the bike run okay until suddenly it did not? Or is this a bike that's been sitting for a long time and is being brought to life?
Refueling on The James Bay Road, 2009 Born to be relatively wild (for a grampa x 3) GL650I, CX650E, CX650T
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Yesterday, 10:58 AM
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Gorson
Joined on 07-19-2010
Posts 10
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I would start with some easier things. Do a compression test. Was there fuel in both float bowls when the carbs were on and it was running? If you have spark and compression, then start tracing the path the fuel takes from your tank until it gets into the combustion chamber.
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Yesterday, 1:45 PM
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Shep

Joined on 01-30-2007
UK.2x1980CX500A
Posts 7,647
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Yesterday, 2:37 PM
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Abes_CW

Joined on 04-17-2007
saskatoon
Posts 3,036
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I agree your overflow is most likely the FNV's are not seating correctly.
1983 GL650i Had 4 CX/GL's at one point this year, down to one, next spring is another adventure!
age 38 (29 plus tax)
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Honda CX500 & G... » CX500 GL500 Tra... » CX Customizatio... » Re: Bloody frustrated
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