adjusting the float level

Does anyone have any good tips/techniques for measuring the float level on hitachi carbs? I have checked for a thread but everything seems to be the same information that is in Haynes (clear fuel line used to measure the level is 3mm +/- 1mm below the carb body). Being that there is only a +/- 1mm window for error, it just seems to me that there should be a more precise way to adjust the floats then to take the bowls off and bend a tab to an approximate degree just to fill the bowls with more fuel then dump that fuel and take them apart again.......... Maybe this is the only way??? If anyone has any tips, I would really appreciate it.

Cheers

 

I just found a really good thread on this so if anyone is interested.

http://www.xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic ... level.html

 

Actually this is the most precise way. I don't like bending things either but once bent the metal stays where bent. Screws vibrate loose over time and really mess up settings. I have attached a pic that shows the method on one carb. I do this on all four carbs together. I find the ones with low or high levels and adjust them. I also wait for a while when refilling the float bowls to see if a level rises. This would indicate a leaking float needle.

 

Where do you get the the fitting for the tubing you used there to check the levels??

If I just jam tubing in there, it leaks. I need something to fit in there that doesn't leak.

thanks

 

Thanks BlueMaxim. I think that is the pic I found last night. Great shot. My issue is the lack of precision in how far to bend the tab. If I was measuring something as I was bending the tab I would be a little more comfortable. Following Haynes, you measure the fuel level, then take the bowls off, make a guestimate adjustment, just to put the bowls back on and measure again. I guess Im just complaining about nothing. Things could be much worse. Thanks for the help.


PghXJ: I just used a piece of clear tubing from Home Depot for my carbs. Not exactly sure what the size is but I know it was a standard size with a nice tight fit. Sense there is no pressure behind the fuel I have not had a problem with the fuel leaking.

 

when my rack of carbs was upside down I measured the float level of one of the carbs that had the right level when there was fuel in the bowls with the clear line hooked up.

I use a straw from a WD-40 can and mark it with my Sharpie to the correct level from the carb with the correct level and then match all the floats to the setting on the straw.

Piece of cake!!!

Then you get to put them back on and check them again.
I've found that if the level is quite a bit off, then I tap on that carb, and the float that was hung up from being upside over frees up....usually.

 

How much play do you have from the picture in this thread?
I have messed with my float levels and they are alittle higher than that.
Just below the top of the float bowl, but not above.
Is it better to be alittle lower than alittle higher?
I think I've had the bowls off 3 or 4 times trying to get them just right.
They are very touchy.

 

This one is actually a little low. I stole it from Nick's gallery sometime ago for the purpose of showing how to check the float level , not to show the correct level.

 

good,
Maybe mine are OK then.
They are really close to the gasket area of the bowl.
I first tried to ajust them, not really level. just eye balled.
I decided to put them in a clamp and level them.
They ended up alittle higher than I had expected.
But maybe that's good.

 

I found it. I know I had a photo of the correct fuel level. (another that I stole form Nick)

 

Damn that's a mighty fine picture!

 

I agree good ol Nick!

Just think where we'd be if he wernt here to take care of us.
Thanks to Blue Max too

 

Yes, and Nick is so modest too!

 

i have a xj700 maxim air cooled which has been stood for 12 years,i have cleaned the carbs twice and still can not get it to go on number 1 if i put my hand over th back of the carb and restrict air flow it runs on four and if i blow down the breather it runs on four,has anyone got any sugestions as why this carb is not working or other bikes with thesame carbs which will fit as there are not many maxims in the uk

 

OK, I had some of these things when I got my bike after sitting for 10 yrs.
1st check you compression, low compression on that hole will cause those symptoms.
2nd, check your exhaust for restrictions, mine had a mouse nest in it.

You will need to be reading your plugs, if you have a Colortune, you will be able to determine if it's a lack of fuel or too much fuel.

also check the plug wire and cap on that hole.

OK that's alot, so let us know what you find out.

Good Luck

 

thanks for your reply but i have now found that the inlet gasket was leaking as soon as i sealed it the carb worked fine .
Back on the road !!!!!