Topic: won't run without choke...

[rtqlat]

Got this 1974 cb550 about 2 weeks ago.  spend the last few weeks fixing little stuf tha it needed.  New air filter (Uni NU-4055), plugs (d7ea), cleaned carbs, rebuilt forks.  Can't seem to get it to run without choke.  I let it warm up alot and even rode it around the block.  All this was done with choke on.  It runs with just the minimalist amount of choke even.  I realize that I may have to remove carbs again but what should I be looking for.  Also adjusted airscrews 1-1/2 turns out.  Tried to fiddled with those to see if they mae a difference but still can't get it to run without choke.  Adjusted them all the way out 2 full turns.  Any help or advice would be appreciated.  I feel like I am close but just can't seem to get over this last hump.

[paulages]

when you cleaned the carbs, did you have compressed air? did you pull the emulsion tubes from beneath the main jets? did you blow through all of the air jets? most importantly, did you make sure all of the pilot jet orifices are clear? this sounds like a classic case of plug idle circuit to me.

[rtqlat]

when you cleaned the carbs, did you have compressed air? did you pull the emulsion tubes from beneath the main jets? did you blow through all of the air jets? most importantly, did you make sure all of the pilot jet orifices are clear? this sounds like a classic case of plug idle circuit to me.

compressed air yes, emulsion tubes no, yet blew through air jets.  Going to take them apart again and try again.  Damned carbs.

[pablo78cb550]

get yourself a ultra sonic cleaner.
you won't even need the compressed air.

[duc750f1]

what solution do you run in the ultrasonic tank? thanks

[TwoTired]

Pay particular attention to the the slow jet's tiny orifices, and the passageways behind them.  Verify you have clear passage between slow jet, slow air jet, Air bleed screw, and entry hole into the carb throat.

Don't curse the carbs, curse the previous mechanic! 

Did you oil the new filter?

Cheers,

[speedy gonzalais]

its sounds like the carbs are still blocked to me thats why u need the choke on cause theres a stronger draw on the fuel in the chambers when choked i would check the main jets again

[pablo78cb550]

what solution do you run in the ultrasonic tank? thanks

you can use whatever you want...
i use laundry detergent.

[Sporkfly]

Had the same problem. It was a combination of slow jets being plugged (one of them anyway) and an improper needle clip setting. Checking the temperature of each pipe can let you know which carb could be the culprit. Regardless you should be taking them apart again and rechecking those slow jets. It sounds like the culprit to me.

So +1 on slows.