Article By: Daniel Donley At Pandemonium Custom Choppers – www.pandemoniumc2.com
Originally Published In The June 2012 Issue Of Cycle Source Magazine
Just purchased a barn find? Or you just need to clean and rejet your carbs? Mikuni CV carbs have been used for many years on many different models of bikes. They are simple and very straightforward. This month I am going to give you the quick and simple steps on how to clean and rejet your carbs so you can get your sweet ride on the road and running smooth!
Start by disassembling your carbs by removing the carb tops. Carefully remove the diaphragms and slides. You will want to replace these if they show any signs of cuts or tears in the rubber.
Flip the carbs over and remove the float bowls.
Next, remove the floats, needles, seats and jets.
Now that the carbs are stripped, clean all passages making sure to get in all of the nooks and crannies with carb cleaner. Then use compressed air to blow air through it. Make sure you get them nice and clean.
This set of carbs leaked really bad. The float needles were actually stuck in the seats. I will be installing new float needles and seats along with new bowl gaskets.
I am also installing a jet kit in these carbs for use with free flowing style air cleaners and a non-baffled exhaust. I have found it to be easier to buy the jet kit versus the trial and error of picking out jets and needles and pulling my hair out for days.
Install your jets and needles per your jet kit’s instructions. You will also want to check your float level on your carbs per your manual.
Reinstall your bowls, diaphragms, slides and carb tops. Now you are good to go; put them back on the bike and get it fired up. You want to get the bike to operating temperature so you can adjust your air/fuel mixture screws. Turning them in is lean and turning them out is rich. What you’re after is the highest idle in or out on these screws. Now you can set the idle screw to your desired level.
This is a basic overview on carbs. I could write a book on the subject. Since I am not the one to turn things into a rocket ship, I won’t. So with these basic pointers you should be able to get your bike running well.