Topic: 73 CB500/4 runs poorly

[SaskCB500]

Hi folks,

I have a 1973 CB500/4 that has new plugs, condensors, points end of last season. I recently pulled the bike out of winter storage and .....the problem I have is that I can only get the bike to run for a few seconds (10-30seconds) before it dies. It turns over fine but in in order to get it to run at all I have to have the throttle full on. It's like it flooded.

For those who are better versed in these machines than I, would this appear to be a fuel issue? There was one carb that leaked (overflow) last year that the tap to the side seemed to correct. I also remember before I put it away that 2 pipes were typically cold to the touch when the other pipes were hot. I only had about 1/2 hour to play and try to get it going but I'm hoping to tackle this more on the upcoming weekend. Any tips or items I should be looking for? I am suspecting fuel and the carbs from my limited knowledge and time spent so far. Would I be in the ball park? (o rings, float etc....)

Thanks,
Thom

[OneWheelDrive]

*sigh* The search function above will be of a huge help.  The bike definitely needs the carbs pulled and cleaned.  It's easy enough if you have the time and motivation.  Most likely it is the tiny holes in the pilot jets that are clogged.  Springtime is carb cleaning time! Also, find the Honda service manual (it's at the top of the SOHC4 bikes forum) and perform the 3000 mile service.  Your bike, and the other forum members will thank you!

[brooze72]

Yes, it does sound like a fuel issue.  OneWheel's advice is good, a carb cleaning would probably help a lot.  Was it stored properly with some fuel stabilizer?  Also, the ethanol gas is terrible for the carbs, do you try & find gas without ethanol content?  It's not so bad if you are using the gas regularly, it's the storage & sittng that can be an issue, ethanol absorbs water if left standing too long & can gum up carbs too.