Topic: Petcock Rebuild or Replace

[OldSchool_IsCool]

I've searched for threads on petcock rebuilds.  Seems simple enough, but, where can I get the parts?  Should I just get one already rebuilt or maybe new?

My bike is a '77 550K.  The petcock isn't leaking bad, but enough that I can smell gas.  The body of the petcock is wet, almost like it's sweating.  I'm not sure yet if it's the threads holding the valve to the tank or if its leaking from the lever.  This is my main ride and I'm not ready to put her up for the season.  My goal is a speedy and safe repair.

Any advice/experience on this matter will be greatly appreciated!!

[bryanj]

you cant buy parts for the 77 petcock so you will have to replace it if its weeping

[ProTeal55]

Just buy a new one and call it a day.

I cant see why you would "rebuild" such a small part when you can get a brand new one.
Not worth burning your bike down with a weeping/leaking petcock to save a few bucks...

My 3 cents...

[GoatBaSS]

Doug Sheldon In MN sold me a rebuild kit for my 72 petcock and it did save about 35 bucks over a new one or repacement. He is on ebay selling lots of stuff like that. Real good guy.

[OldSchool_IsCool]

I pulled the petcock off.  It's riveted together, so not serviceable.  I also found that the strainer was missing and that the rubber seal (the one at the threaded tank nipple) is shot and is the source of the leak. 

I bought a 50-cent fuel injector O-ring that looks to be about the right size, but, when I put it on, it leaks.  I'm thinking that rather then flattening out, the O-Ring slips into the reserve port of the petcock causing more leakage.

I got a hold of Doug and he's sending me a new strainer and gasket for a good price.

And yes PT... no sense in cutting corners when it comes to fuel dripping on a hot engine!