Topic: CL350 runs really choppy and low power

[zeech]

Back again, this time for my CL350.

This bike was a pile when I bought it, but since then I've rebuilt the carbs and all passages seem clean and clear. I set the float heights, though they don't have any bounce off the float needle when seated, they just sit there... maybe that's an issue?  I tried new float needles from a rebuild kit and they held the floats up too high where fuel wouldn't even flow into the carbs.

I also cleaned out the tank and put a brand new petcock on and fresh fuel.

When I run the throttle when the bike is in neutral it will wind all the way up and seems strong and good, but as soon as I ride it in 1st, there is very little power, it sputters a lot and seems like it's trying to get power out of the engine but just can't. It's a little better in 2nd and 3rd but still very choppy.

Any ideas of what else to do or where to look? Timing? Bad battery or electronics? Also, when I try and use the electric start, I hear a click in near the solenoid but the starter motor doesn't go. Not sure if this is the starter or other electronics.

Thanks!

[MoMo]

Start from the beginning, is the battery fully charged to 12.7v?...Larry

[zeech]

Yes. Though I don't know the health history of the battery. Might be better off getting a new one. Will that really affect the entire riding of the bike?

[Rodger]

I would check timing.  But you should do full tune up, i.e. adjust timing chain, new spark plugs, adjust valves, adjust points or replace if worn(set gap) and set timing.  When they pull good with no load and have issues like yours under load most times its ignition related.

[MoMo]

Yes. Though I don't know the health history of the battery. Might be better off getting a new one. Will that really affect the entire riding of the bike?

Yes, charge it and let it sit for a couple hours and then read the voltage,  should be 12.7...Larry