Topic: 76' CB550F - Main jet spring clip questions

[bsanorton]

OK. I have one set of carbs that I pulled off of a bike (mileage is 5500) that sat for many years & the bowls & jets are all gummed up & I'm having difficulty pulling out the main jets. I received another set of carbs from a very good running bike with less then 5K on her & the internals look very clean. When I opened the bowls the main jet & clips just fell off. Question, is this normal for the jets to fall out on disassembly? When I clean the main jet & put back do I lube the o-ring & tap into place then put the clip on? Sorry, but I have no experience with these 'push-in' jets. Thanks, Rich.
Picture of gummed up carbs.

   

[Tim.]

Main jets should stay in place with the o-ring providing some tension - leaf springs make sure they stay up.

If they just fell out, chances are the o-rings are shot - should be replaced anyhow.  Shouldn't really need to lube the o-ring.  Chances are your fingers will be oily/greasy/coated in gasoline when you put the o-rings on the jets anyhow, providing plenty of lube.

Those are some seriously gummy carbs! 

[puppytrax]

Those are some seriously gummy carbs! 

Perhaps we should have a "Gummiest Carb" contest...   

I would take that set over mine any day...I don't see any signs of terminal oxidation there, like mine have...