Author Topic: cb500 starting and idle issues  (Read 349 times)

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Offline kurtkarram

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cb500 starting and idle issues
« on: August 01, 2022, 07:46:56 AM »
1973 cb500. Runs and rides perfectly, just has a few little issues on the low end.

1. When warm, it has "2" idle speeds. If I rev it and let it drop, it idles at 1500. From there, if I blip the throttle- giving it the slightest rotation for a split second, the idle will then drop to 1300. Both idles speeds sound consistent. I am not sure why it does this. There is no binding in the cable and the carbs return to its bottomed out position every time.

2. When warm, I have to crack the throttle a bit for it to start. I can't just kick, I have to hold the throttle slightly open. Once it starts I can let go and it will idle fine. I've tried adjusting the idle screw in to the point where it would start warm with no throttle, but then it just idles too high. On a second note I have to slightly hold the throttle open on a cold start for the first 15 seconds. Reading the forums I see mixed opinions on whether or not this is ideal.

3000 miles tuneup has been done. Carbs synced. Advancer mechanism cleaned and lubed, with shortened springs. Carb boots and manifold O-rings have been replaced. Stock exhaust, carbs, air filter, etc.

Offline TwoTired

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Re: cb500 starting and idle issues
« Reply #1 on: August 01, 2022, 04:11:38 PM »
Is the carb return spring the stock one?

Do you have the proper slack in the throttle cables.

Are your throttle cables frayed internally?

What setting for you carb's pilot screws?

What heat range spark plugs are installed?

Cold engines don't atomize fuel as well as warm ones, making them less efficient.  To make them run at equal speed with varying temps takes a throttle adjustment.  Some carbs have a fast idle cam linked to the choke.  Bumping the throttle upon application of choke.  Yours doesn't have that.
Modern cars have sensors for temp, etc. and a computer to adjust idle speed for various temperatures encountered.

The computer for your Cb500 is located 2-3 feet above the seat.  It might just need adjustment. :-)

Lloyd... (SOHC4 #11 Original Mail List)
72 500, 74 550, 75 550K, 75 550F, 76 550F, 77 550F X2, 78 550K, 77 750F X2, 78 750F, 79CX500, 85 700SC, GL1100

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