Can't fit the carbs back on the boots-GSX400

[Guest]

I tried to re-install the carbs on the boots yesterday, and they dont fit.
the boots are hard and not flexible, i know the best thing is to replace them but they actually seem to be in good condition and i don't think that they'er as old as the bike.
I tried with silicon spray and it didn't work.
there's no airbox so it's not a matter of no room to work.
Putting the boots on the carbs first looks like it wont work because i wouldn't be able to put in the bolts.

any ideas?

Eran

[mike10]

heat

I have heard of guys heating the boots up with a hot air gun. (Like a heavy duty blow dryer). If you have some way to warm them without burning them up it makes the boots more flexible.

[Big Rich]

What about soaking the boots in hot water? Same concept as the heat gun idea.

[eran_k]

I can try with the wife's hair dryer

[SVSooke]

http://www.thegsresources.com/_forum...d.php?t=169370 it really does work.

[Gorminrider]

yes, warmth works! All good ideas above.
however, I opine:
Hopefully, you have already shifted your airbox back. You usually need to unbolt and shift part of the rear fender to do this.

Hair dryers are a bit weak for the work in Northern Climates while a hot air gun (used for stripping paint) is excellent but should be used carefully on a low setting Keep the heat on long enough to thoroughly warm. In Israel, where you are, you will not need it so close as we in Northern climes. They really are a useful tool for many things.

Hot water on a rag wrapped 'round, while wearing gloves! will help and I think it is near the ideal temperature just below boiling.

Read the thread per SVsooke's suggestion - perhaps you can find
this stuff jabcb and SVSooke are using with success : "Rubber Renue" to keep it soft and save repeated applications taking the carbs off and on. It'd be good to do this now, while you can get at the boots inside and out.

http://www.thegsresources.com/_forum/showpost.php?p=1944794&postcount=22

my tinkering indicates wintergreen oil directly applied to the warmed surface also helps to soften.

[eran_k]

I'm going to use pods so no airbox, and i found a place to buy this wintergreen oil so i'll give it a try (with hot water)

thanks for all the good advice

[pete]

If they're that hard, then you will have intake leaks and will likely find yourself with the dreaded hanging idle symptoms, I had the same issue with mine.

As they go hard, they also shrink, which stops the clamps from clamping down properly and providing a good seal.

I've heard the wintergreen thing a few times now so hopefully that sorts them for you!

Definitely post results...

[cowboyup3371]

You can also lightly grease the inside of the boot to help the carbs slide in.