New rider, new to the forum.

I have a 2003 Sportster 883R. She seems to take a while to come off choke after sitting for a few days. It takes at least 10 minutes for her to settle down. She wants to stall when I throttle her during this time. I was told it may be the intake seals. Is 10 minutes a reasonable time? I do need to change the fuel shutoff valve, which leaks after running for a while.

 

10 minutes is long enough to wash the oil off the cylinder walls.

 

Thank you. So there's no reason to be concerned, as long as it remains in the 10 minute range, give or take?

 

My technique with my 2004 XL1200 is choke full ON, one twist of throttle, and start. After 30 seconds (guessing) choke to HALF, and ride off. About 2 miles later choke OFF. NEVER should it run 10 minutes with choke ON. Its too rich and will wash the cylinders of oil. Then you have metal to metal and wear begins!

 

What nortyflats said,which means it'll ruin your engine to continue doing this.Get that choke back in as soon as possible after it starts.Like in 30 seconds,or a minute at the longest.

 

Leaving the enrichener (choke) on too long will wash oil off the cylinder walls but will also foul your plugs. Pull it out all the way on first start, 30 seconds in half way, about another 30 secs. or a mile, all the way in.

 

Great info everyone, thanks. My problem is that she will stall if I go to 1/2 choke within 30 seconds. What is causing that? Carb is clean. Parts counter at local HD suggested I replace intake seals. Will that correct the problem?

 

Join the Xlforum.org and read the pinned article on adjusting the Keihin carburater 101. It will take you thru the adjustment of the idle fuel, choke, and cables ect.

This will make sure the carb is adjusted correctly which should cure all the stumbling problems. And they are always willing to help a Sportster rider too. Introduce yourself, and then get all the Sportster guys/gals to help you sort out the bike. Good Luck abd Ride Safe!

 

If the carb is stock jetting, you are running lean, compensating for that when cold with the choke. If it was mine I'd check the jets, while you're there might as well change the seals and know there's no intake leak. Sounds like too much choking to me.

 

Have you checked for air leaks in the Intake? Is everything tight? I sold my '78 XLCH 35 years ago but it did have a Keihin carb which I never had to choke after I set it up. The bike always started first or second kick and ran great. You should always check for loose fasteners on and around your Sportster's engine regardless of how it's running. Check for intake leaks, and troubleshoot from there if that's not the problem.