Leaky petcock, fixable?

[Guest]

My petcock is leaking fuel into the vacuum feed on carb #2, and I wonder if I can fix it or need to replace the petcock. I also wonder how urgent it is. There's not a ton of fuel moving, but I can clearly see it, and it does build up if I pinch the line, so it's actually leaking.

This is on my 81 gs650gl. I've heard that the petcock rebuilds are not worth it. Should I look around at the classifieds?

[Larry D]

Sometimes they are fixable...but, it's more a crapshoot whether the repairs will work. Much better to buy a new one IMHO.

[Dogma]

My petcock is leaking fuel into the vacuum feed on carb #2, and I wonder if I can fix it or need to replace the petcock. I also wonder how urgent it is. There's not a ton of fuel moving, but I can clearly see it, and it does build up if I pinch the line, so it's actually leaking.

This is on my 81 gs650gl. I've heard that the petcock rebuilds are not worth it. Should I look around at the classifieds?

If that leak progresses, it can fill your crankcase, leading to some large scale unpleasantness called-hydraulic lock, or merely diluted oil that no longer protects the engine. I would consider it urgent. I wouldn't be surprised if you could smell gas in your oil now.

Disassemble the petcock and see if you can identify the problem. A weak spring and a perforated diaphragm could be fixed with a rebuild. There have been successes. If you do decide to buy a replacement, stay away from used. Used ones may well be in the same or similar condition. New ones are available, though they cost a bit more than anyone would want to spend.

[tom203]

Don't waste your time - just replace it. You can get one for less than $50 shipped and eliminate it from your maintenance worries.