Should I switch out pod filters for intake plenum?

[mrbrowning]

Hi all, new poster. I'm the new owner of an '82 GS650G, which doesn't yet run but (taking the former owner's testimony at face value) should only require a starter motor replacement to get going. For context, I've worked on cars for a while but I'm new to wrenching on bikes. My question is: this bike came with pod filters on each carb. From what I've read about pod filters, they seem to be a boon if you're frequently at WOT, but a detriment otherwise. I'm moderately skeptical that whoever was responsible for installing the pod filters on this bike took the time to tune the carbs appropriately, and as far as I can tell it's outfitted with a stock exhaust. Assuming that it's mobile after I replace the starter, should I prioritize swapping the pod filters out for a standard intake plenum/airbox? I'd prefer low-end torque and reliability over making maximum power at WOT, so I'm wondering if it's a big enough deal that I should go ahead and make that change before running it daily, or if it's a marginal-enough difference that I can defer going back to the standard intake for a while. Thanks!

 

[Tom R]

That depends on how much you enjoy taking the carbs on and off to dial it in... the good news is the pods make them much easier to remove... the bad news is it probably wants a different needle to get it just right.

 

[Rob S.]

I would defer all until you get it running and see how you like how it rides. Personally, I prefer the look of pods over stock air boxes, also think a nice 4-into-1 looks better than stock exhausts.

Just for the record, it is possible to gain the WOT advantages of pods without any noticeable losses on the low end. Judging from my reading here over five years, very few DIY'ers get it just right. I had a very experienced tuner jet mine on a dyno.

 

[Guest]

I’d get the bike running first and do a compression test to see what you have to work with. PODs are usually used with 4 into 1 pipes but can just as easily be used with a stock system but most definitely you’ll need to make needle clip adjustments and jet changes. Sometimes it’s nice to get the bike running in stock form before you modify things. One thing for sure when you get the bike running and are chasing idle issues it would be a lot easier to sort issues out with a stock setup than with PODs.

 

[Buffalo Bill]

For the kind of reliability you want, put the airbox back on. Check the jet and needle OEM specs, restore those as close as possible.
Having to restore a boogered up bike will be really tough to a novice, but you can do it.
Here's a good source of GS info: http://gsarchive.bwringer.com/

 

[LAB3]

I'm with Rob S on this one, get it running and see what you've got. It's like the old saying goes "If it ain't broke don't fix it"

 

[Gorminrider]

as an aside, these pods-paper filters? does anyone ever replace them or clean them? so...maybe check that before you even start the bike...or just suck on em with a vacuum cleaner which is what I'd do

oh, and

should only require a starter motor replacement to get going

They are pretty rugged and unless the previous owner was an expert I think most here would agree that a quick bench test is always the first thing before buying a new one....even exhibiting symptoms these can often be "fixed" by taking them apart and cleaning them up, or next level; replacing brushes and cleaning up the commutator.
If it checks out,(a strong leap on the bench test!) goto solenoid and then actual handlebar starter button...the latter being most common.

The starter clutch, internal to the engine, well, another subject. If you haven't already, go here for TonsOfGs STUFF
BikeCliff's Website

 

[Rob S.]

As an '82, I'm assuming it has no kick starter. Can't it be push started? (Assuming it's otherwise in running order.)

 

[RichDesmond]

I agree with:

Trying to bump start it. If your battery is good and the bike is otherwise fine that should work. Second or third gear, not first. Helps to have a friend and a gentle hill.

See how it runs first, before deciding on changing anything.

That said, airboxes are a good thing, and especially given your priorities I think you'll likely be happier with the pods gone and the stock setup restored.

 

[tom203]

I vote with the "get it running first group"... Should start and run sorta ok even with pods. Be skeptical of PO's analysis - and figure he skipped the jet changing during pod upgrade. Understand that this critter's "choke" is an enricher, (not a plate across carb throat). Do NOT apply any throttle during "choke" use or you defeat its purpose. Hope fully a second gear bump start will bring it to life and give you more clues as to its health.

 

[Buffalo Bill]

Start it up with ****ty oil and ruin the bearings, not a bright idea.

 

[gustovh]

A clean up of connections just might get it to start as well. Check voltage at the starter celinoid and especially your battery ground. Don’t forget that you also must pull in the clutch to start. Bought a bike for cheap once because the owner didn’t know that.

V

 

[KEITH KRAUSE]

Pod filters and a stock exhaust are a poor flow match. You don't get near the extra HP at higher rpm's. A waste of time performance-wise. You said you favor low and mid-range power anyway, so a stock intake would be best for you.
I agree with others that if the bike has been re-jetted correctly then maybe you should leave things alone. The problem is that many bikes are not re-jetted correctly. The fact that the bike has a stock exhaust and pods is a red flag to me.
You could just get it running and see if it runs well enough for you. You could at least look for signs of lean running such as the header turning bluish, etc. But to be sure you'll have to take the carbs apart and inspect all the jetting and the condition of the carbs.