Brand new petcock not working.

[Guest]

So I've had this 550 cafe racer project for a little while now and am almost done. Now a problem that I though I fixed. I bought a new petcock 6-ish months ago because my original one was falling apart. Got it on the tank and everything worked like it should. Had some other priorities and the bike project got put on the back burned up until a few weeks ago. Started messing with it again and it stalled on me one day. Tried and tried but couldn't get it started again. Start taking everything apart and don't you know it, No fuel.... I' have turned the valve every which way and not a drip... I have used several of these same petcocks and have had nothing but problems with them. Are they that crappy!? any ideas? anyone have a good original they are willing to sell? I never understood why they made these without levers and a tiny little slot instead. Incredibly stupid design...

[Nessism]

To engage prime you first need to turn the slot vertical with a small screwdriver, then you need to apply vacuum to the vacuum port on the petcock. Turning over the engine for a few seconds should do it. After you prime the float bowls, turn the slot back horizontal otherwise the fuel will continue to flow which may over load your carb float needles.

[BassCliff]

Hi,

Everyone gripes about those petcocks. I think they were used only one year (1980?). I am a fan of the vacuum petcock but I like a real lever too.

Quite a few riders use the Pingel manual petcock as an aftermarket replacement. But you MUST remember to turn off the gas when you turn off the engine. Or else the fuel may get past the valve seal in the carb and flood a cylinder, dilute the oil, etc. Not good. You'll find the manual petcock at Z1Enterprises.com. Don't forget the proper adapter plate, if necessary.

http://www.z1enterprises.com/ItemDetails.aspx?itemDescription=Pingel+Petcock+Pingel+Single+Outlet+3%2f8+NPT&item=SU009-305

Normally use a 44mm adapter plate. But double-check for your 550. Z1 describes these as replacements for the 750+. Give them a call if you have questions. They're generally pretty helpful on the phone.

Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff