Cold weather carb problem
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Intermediate
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 33
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Cold weather carb problem
I have a little problem with the 2003 HC - Carb version. I have been riding to work, and the mornings are a little chilly. When the morning weather is below 32 degrees,she dies at every stop light, and stumbles off idle. On one particularly cold morning of 28 degrees, she never cleaned out, even on the freeway at 70 mph, poped and sputtered all the way to work. However, when I light her up for the trip home in the afternoon, all is well again, with no problems.
Any thoughts on cause?
Any thoughts on cause?
Novice
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
From: virginia
RE: Cold weather carb problem
I don't have an answer but I do share the same problem on my 99 Low rider. Works great unless it gets below 30. i ride 65 miles to work and alot of that is 75-80 mph on the interstate and the problem doesn't go away even after that long haul. i had the dealership look at it and they say there is nothing wrong. I have changed the little black box, ignition coil, plugs and wires. Still have the same problem.In the afternoon when it warms up it is fine. if it sits over night and is in the 40's the bike runs fine. i'm curious have you ever checked to see which cylinder is having the problem. when I get off and stick my hand over the exhaust the front cyclinder is blowing cold air while the rear is hot. if you rev it just a little bit the front turns hot, but at idle it returns to cold air again. I'm thinking of trying to put a windbarrier up on the frame to see if that'll help the front cylinder retain heat. I'm just not sure if I block too much air if I'll have an overheating problem.I have noticed if I stop for gas the bike seems to run better for a short while, I'm guessing because the heat radiates up through the motor and warms the cylinder. I'll let you know how the wind break does.
Tourer
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 436
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From:
RE: Cold weather carb problem
Same here on my '94 EGC.....had the same problem on my '93 EGC........no-one that I have talked to over the years has had a good answer for this....maybe gas is freezing a little when it atomizes going into the carb...only guess we have really come up with......mine usally runs good after the first tank of gas....150 miles of so when on a trip....pretty frustrating I know....probally nature of the beast........
BC
BC
Stage II
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From:
RE: Cold weather carb problem
Have you guys checked your intake manifold seals? I'vehad relatively new bikes come into my shop with the owner complaining of a pop ora cough, coming off an idle. He's been here and there and nobody can get the carb set right. Often the carburetor gets blamed for what is in fact a leaking manifold seal. Theseshould be checked at each service as they do deteriorate and will begin leaking air into the intake tract which will cause a lean air/fuel mixture in the affected cylinder.
Here's what you need to do....
All you will need is a aerosol can of carburetor cleaner with the little red "pinpoint" straw.Warm the bike up to normal operating temperature. Now with the motor idling, spray each manifold flange where it mates to the heads. If the motor changes RPM, you have a leak at that seal.
Here's what you need to do....
All you will need is a aerosol can of carburetor cleaner with the little red "pinpoint" straw.Warm the bike up to normal operating temperature. Now with the motor idling, spray each manifold flange where it mates to the heads. If the motor changes RPM, you have a leak at that seal.
Tourer
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 436
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From:
RE: Cold weather carb problem
Haven't tried this..only because..it only happens when they get below freezing....after the day warms up it goes away...never in warm weather....what do you think on this??? thanks for taking the time to figure on this....BC
1st Gear
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 5
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From:
RE: Cold weather carb problem
Your problem is Condensation in the fuel, the tnak, lines, and more than likely, the fuel bowl. Any water that has built up from condensation will sit in he bottom of the bowl. Pick up some Fuel line anti-freeze at a Auto parts store. and you will be good to go. Just dont use the whole bottle, its made for a cars fuel tank.
Think about it' if the only thing that is changing is the temp falling below the freezing temp of water than that would be your problem.
20 yrs experience riding almost year round in Rochester NY....
Think about it' if the only thing that is changing is the temp falling below the freezing temp of water than that would be your problem.
20 yrs experience riding almost year round in Rochester NY....
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Tourer
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 436
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From:
RE: Cold weather carb problem
That's been our thinking also....have had this happen since '92...on both of my EGC.... I'm also from the NE.....although have drained the tanks before....maybe a little dry gas...not much in a tank or two here and their......will have to experiment...happens out West and wherever if it gets below freezing nad has sat out at night before taking off........
BC
BC
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Road Warrior
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,281
Likes: 8
From:
RE: Cold weather carb problem
If it isn't moisture in the system, you may be jetted too lean in the low jet. Do you know what size is in there now? A #46 low jet should do you good. I assume the slide isn't drilled? (reason for stumble in the cold)
Tourer
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 436
Likes: 0
From:
RE: Cold weather carb problem
Happens with both the old CV and the upgraded.Mikuni 42....good thoughts...another route to look at....plugs look real good....only a cold weather (32 or lower) condition....thanks for the imput.....BC