Black plug, black smoke

[Easy Rider]

Originally Posted by Jere

Ran some carb cleaner through the gas tank and it's running fairly decent but it's still backfiring on occasion (only when shutting it off though.)

I think I'm going to take the carb off and clean it properly then try the valve adjustment. I'll report back when that's done (won't be for awhile.)

Is it really a back-FIRE or just a back-kick in the engine? A lot of bikes will take a half-stroke or so of BACKWARDS rotation sometimes when turning off; it makes a funny clunk-whine noise and there's really nothing you can do about that. I think the thumper does it more than most.

If you DO decide to dis-assemble the carb, I would recommend getting a "kit" for it. Gasket, o-rings, a spring or two.......WAY over-priced but invaluable if you screw something up when taking it apart.

What brand of cleaner did you use ?

[Jere]

It's definitely a backfire; doesn't happen every time though.

I asked the dealership for a carb kit last week and they said they don't sell them, only individual parts. I thought that was strange.

I used something called Slick50 Fuel System Formula at Canadian Tire. See here: Slick50. The selection at the dealership was pitiful. I couldn't find the two recommended on here anywhere (went to the Kawasaki and Yahama dealers too.)

[alantf]

Originally Posted by Jere

I used something called Slick50 Fuel System Formula at Canadian Tire.

I use a similar product - Wynns fuel additive - & it certainly makes a big difference. They recommend using it every 4000 km. I reckon on 75 ml to a tankful of petrol. Only thing is - it's a lot cheaper than the slick 50 - around the equivalent of $6 or $7 for 365 ml (around 5 tankfuls)

[Easy Rider]

Originally Posted by Jere

I used something called Slick50 Fuel System Formula at Canadian Tire.

I just don't have much faith in those "multi-purpose" formulas, including SeaFoam.
I'd think you could find Berryman's B12 Chemtool 'cause I believe it is a British product.
Last can I got was at WalMart. Do you have Auto Zone or NAPA ??

You have to "train" your eye to look for a "real" can and not a plastic bottle though.
It's in a white can with black and red lettering.
Original Gumout is good too; it may come in a can or plastic bottle.