1984 Suzuki GS1100 won't start

[crpowell08]

I recently got a hold of a 1984 Suzuki gs1100 it started when I got it left it sit for a few days when it got to around 2 degrees here The battery went dead and I noticed it was not the right battery so I bought the new battery(the right one) and charged it over night. but it still won't start I tried the prime and reserve and run positions with no luck. would it hurt to spray starting fluid in the carb and would it matter which one I spray it into. I have also just changed all 4 spark plugs.


Sorry I got this in two areas I didn't notice the Suzuki forum when I put this question in general discussions

[The_AirHawk]

Use carb cleaner (and not the "safe" stuff), avoid starting-ether when possible, a shot in all of 'em would be prudent.

What's the ambient temp at your place right now? If still low, it might be just too cold. Fuel has to vapourise in order to combust, and doesn't so well in the cold. Bikes aren't really "designed" to run at low temps, even EFI.

[crpowell08]

I managed to get it to start but there is gas leaking from one of the air cleaner thingsI am thinking the valve/needle might be stuck and just want to see if I am on the right track thinking that or what else might cause it

[The_AirHawk]

Sounds like you're on the right track - you've got a float valve stuck in a carb. Could be crud in a needle seat, or could be just "sticking" - try a sharp but gentle rap with a screwdriver handle on the offending float-bowl, see if it stops overflowing.

If not, it'll require a bit of minor mechanic'n to clean the carb(s).

You would be wise to obtain a copy of the Factory Manual at this point. Or a Clymer Manual, in a pinch.


Good Luck. Keep us apprised of your situation.

[MOKE1K]

Make sure you know the condition your fuel tank on the inside, you don't want to clean the carbs and send the gunk right back into it.

[crpowell08]

okay I tried tapping on the carb bowl and it is still doing it so I guess my next step is to take the carbs off clean them (which I can put in the carb cleaner at my school) and going to empty the tank inspect it and clean it out. but when I got it started today it won't idle could that be the same thing to much fuel choking it out.

I also noticed yesterday when I took it for a ride it seemed to be pulling to the right when giving gas could that be caused by the same problem since the Carb on the left is the one leaking gas

[Kenneth_Moore]

Originally Posted by crpowell08

it seemed to be pulling to the right when giving gas could that be caused by the same problem since the Carb on the left is the one leaking gas

Yes. When my rear cylinder isn't getting as much fuel as the front one, the bike tends to wheelie a lot. When I had a Honda CB 550, the right cylinders were always out of tune and the bike rode at a 20 degree angle to the left. It was a real PITA...after a while I started leaning left all the time.

[longride]

"I also noticed yesterday when I took it for a ride it seemed to be pulling to the right when giving gas could that be caused by the same problem since the Carb on the left is the one leaking gas"

Check the swingarm,. It may be loose and the pull is causing the bike to sway when on the power.

[A Star Ride]

Originally Posted by Kenneth_Moore

Yes. When my rear cylinder isn't getting as much fuel as the front one, the bike tends to wheelie a lot. When I had a Honda CB 550, the right cylinders were always out of tune and the bike rode at a 20 degree angle to the left. It was a real PITA...after a while I started leaning left all the time.

That is damn funny, made me bust a gut