Low Idle 1981 GS550T

[asphalt guy]

working on a 1981 gs550t i just replaced my petcock the only reason i did that was because my bike would only run if it was set on (res) now it starts and runs on (fuel) my problem is now it acts like it don't want to idle when i turn off the choke i think i need to turn up the idle any suggestions i checked all the boots and things i could think of i am not a cycle mechanic could someone let me know where to start
thanks in advance

[Nessism]

By all means, turn up the idle and see if that helps. Look for a metal knob underneith the carbs - turn in to set the idle higher. If the idle hunts, you either still have a vacuum leak or you need to open up the pilot screws - set them to 3 full turns out and see how it runs. If you don't know what I'm talking about, check the GSR homepage and find the carb rebuild series.

[waterman]

Not to overstate the obvious, but you may consider turning up the idle speed. If not sure how, there is a knob under the carbs that will adjust the throttle positions. This knob is located between the second and third carb bowl (in the middle). Turning it clockwise will increase throttle position and therefore increase speed. Counter clockwise will lower speed. I shoot for around 1100 rpms for idle.

If you can't find knob, write back; I can get a picture of it for you. I have a spare set of carbs in garage. BTW, where in the great state of OHIO are you?

[asphalt guy]

Not to overstate the obvious, but you may consider turning up the idle speed. If not sure how, there is a knob under the carbs that will adjust the throttle positions. This knob is located between the second and third carb bowl (in the middle). Turning it clockwise will increase throttle position and therefore increase speed. Counter clockwise will lower speed. I shoot for around 1100 rpms for idle.

If you can't find knob, write back; I can get a picture of it for you. I have a spare set of carbs in garage. BTW, where in the great state of OHIO are you?

i am in columbus

[Nessism]

Knob in question visible in this photo...

[Nessism]

You also should adjust the air screws as shown in this photo - 3 turns out from fully seated. If there is a cap over the screws, drill down lightly into the cap (not deeper) and insert a screw into the cap so you can then pry the caps out.

[asphalt guy]

Knob in question visible in this photo...

thank you i should be able to check it out tomorrow weather surposed to be in the 50's

[asphalt guy]

i just wanted to as you a question i found the idle screw under the carbs. i tried to set the idle up but it doesn't help the idle does pick up but it falls back down when it gets to around 1000-900 the bike stops running any suggestions
thanks in advance, ron

[Nessism]

Did you adjust the pilot screws as described above?

[asphalt guy]

thank you again

[quote=Nessism;778366]You also should adjust the air screws as shown in this photo - 3 turns out from fully seated. If there is a cap over the screws, drill down lightly into the cap (not deeper) and insert a screw into the cap so you can then pry the caps out.
thanks for all your advice i just got done adjusting the air screws and now it seems to idle just fine #1-#3 was able to adjust #4 would not move didn't want to force it thanks again

[Nessism]

Get some sort of penetrant spray, like PB Blaster, and spray the air screw in that last carb. Spray a little every day and after a few days the screw will hopefully free up.