when trying to learn how to adjust valve spacing, i noticed they seemed a little tight. not a whole lot of free play. from what i’ve researched, everyone says it’s better to run valves too lose than too tight. could this cause it not to run? i’ll keep the oil in mind. i’ll drain it at some point this weekend and post an update. if there are plastic bits, i assume that means i’m gonna have to replace the cam chain/chain guide?
yes, but see if you can get the engine to idle first. this way you will assess all that needs to be done
I forgot to mention that after putting a new float bowl gasket on the LH carb and plugging the vacuum hole, gas started leaking from the bottom spout on the float bowl. any ideas on what could cause this?
I would consider a good carb cleaning essential on a new to you bike. Confirm float level, proper jet size and type and be sure that all the small passages are clear. I'm always a bit suspicious of inline fuel filters like the ones in your pics. Verify fuel is getting to the float bowls. Valve gap will rarely be the cause of no-run unless they are waaaay out. Good luck.
do you have any suggestions on where I can find proper jets for and parts for the Mikuni Carbs? I’m running straight pipes. Also if you have any manuals or anything that can guide me on rebuilding/adjusting the carbs would be great. Fuel is definitely getting to the float bowls because both of them have been leaking like a motherfucker from the bottom. what do you suggest I use for the fuel filters? Do you have a link on where to buy what I’d need to swap them?
spend some time in the tech section: https://www.xs650.com/pages/tech/
credit to @5twins
