Posted by Mike C
on 7/15/2007, 5:07 pm, in reply to "wet season"
61.7.168.98
I've had this problem before both in bikes and 4WD's. In both cases the problem was water droplet ingress into the carb proper (assuming you have such a thing) due to hairline cracking when the bike hits the (relatively cold) water. It can also occur in the fuel inlet tubes. After a while(depends on temp)the water will capsulise and slowly dissolve(scientifically incorrect, its the other way round) in the fuel. To speed things up turn off the fuel supply and start or kick the inlets dry of fuel 2/3 times (don't kill the power)before attempting to restart after about 10 mins. When you get a restart run in neutral at a fair rev rate for 20 secs or so to avoid possible water puddle(non-compressable,unlike fuel) from forming and cracking piston head. Bounce and lean the bike about if you can during this elegant procedure.
To find hairlines, rub the suspect area (particularly around moldings) with a lemon or lime and wait until dry (use a hairdrier or the wind or fan, don't rub off). The hairlines will show up as thin bright white lines on steel or alloy. Carry a little bottle of 'Locktight'thread sealer for temp repairs. Just dab it on. It will find the crack and flexibly seal it following the citric acid trail and you'll get home. Also it won't interfere with more permanent repairs later. Hope this is of some use. Mike C.
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