85 XJ700 Maxim X Petcock/Radiator Problem

Howdy once again guys, in my last post I mentioned I was going to be doing the sync on my carbs with my homemade manometer and we have had an incredible success! My throttle response problem was solved by readjusting my mixture screws and allowed for the achievement of a sufficient and very stable idle. I ran my sync with little to no issues however right after I had gotten carbs 1+2 and 3+4 finished (to continue on to the middle screw) I noticed a small puddle of coolant. No big deal since I figured I had probably overfilled it. After finishing the synch rather hurriedly but successful nonetheless I noticed that my bike wasn't keen on retaining it's coolant whatsoever. I mentioned before that I cannot notice any coolant from the reservoir's inspection window. This was after the bike had gotten up to temperature. I forgot to check the function of my fan on my radiator but figured I'd ask; when should the fan be coming on? more specifically at what (indicated) temperature? This is only my first issue, however, as my petcock seems to be misbehaving as well.

I have done the complete rebuild on my petcock but it still seems to leak. I have looked all over the place for a solution and for the life of me cannot stop the leak. I have replaced every washer, inspected the wave washer, re-seated the diaphragm, tightened all screws, and I'm completely out of ideas. I just want to run a sealer around the outside of it but I realize my impatience would most likely cost me a new petcock. The leak is coming from the "sandwich" as I'm calling it, the layers between the main petcock body, the rubber diaphragm, then the plastic plate, the rubber once again, and finally the back plate of the petcock. This is the only place I have seen gas leak from as my seals between the tank and petcock are good, and as is my connection to a fuel line. It should be noted however that the leak is more noticeable when on "Prime" but exists whenever fuel is able to flow.

Thanks a bunch guys, I'm looking forward to this season and because of y'all it's actually possible,


Medici

 

I have not much help to offer, but it would be helpful to us if you would keep all the questions and issues you are having about this motorcycle in one thread.
That will save you from having to retype all the work you've previously done each time you have a new question.

 

My apologies, I figured that for other people to search for problems with their own bikes and issues it would be easier to search through threads and not individual comments. I will keep all further technical questions in this thread for simplicity's sake, but every question I have asked thus far have been unique enough to dictate it's own post (at least in my mind) so I haven't retyped much. Thanks.

 

according to the FSM the thermo switch develops continuity beyond 105C +- 3c or 221F +-5.4F.