Hi,

Im new to this forum so im sorry if I posted this where I shouldnt have.

I have a 06 sportster XL 1200L I have recently moved and because of this my bike has been sitting in the garage for approx 7 months. Long story short it runs great but will only idle when the choke is pulled half way. I am pretty sure that the gas which is always premium went bad and messed up my carburetor. I wouldnt think 7 months wouldnt cause this but thats what im being told.

Since the tank was just about empty (running on the reserve when I originally parked it) I filled it up and have ran it approx 15 miles. I have also taken off the air filter to see if there is any difference. everything seems to be moving ok but I have the same issue.

And to my question. Is there anything I can add to the gas or spray in the carburetor that might clean out this gunk that is apparently there? I am about 200 miles over the last service I had (5000) on it. I just ordered the service manual and intend on pulling the carb off and cleaning but I would like for that to be the last resort.

Once again im sorry if this has been asked again

thanks for the help
scoup

 

Scoup
The best thing you can do is take it apart....the pilot jet hole is so small you have to hold it up to the light to look through it so it needs to be cleaned out with the use of a needle or something small like that. I heard Sea Foam will clean well but you won't go wrong with a can or two of carb cleaner.

 

Like doc said,your better off taking the carb apart.I've seen jets beond repair.The gas wont just gum up,it can turn into a hard crystal like substance that is a bitch to remove.
Gas can go bad in in 7 months.

 

Thank you for your replies.

Looks like im doing some rebuilding when my manual gets here.

Scoup