Oooops

[1948man]

My GS1100 GL has been seeing less action lately due to cold weather, acquiring a Cavalcade which I ride part of the time, a bout with the flu, etc. I got in the habit of using the Prime setting on the petcock when cold starting since it often might sit for a week between rides (yes, I give it a good 20 minutes of running at least to get it well-heated). Well, I left the petcock on Prime the last time and found gas leaking from the PODS and dripping to the floor of the carport. Is there a set of steps I should follow before trying to start it? The oil seems about normal level in the sight window but maybe a little high. I'm not sure if I smell any from the oil fill cap. I will change it just to be safe and because it's about due anyway. Do I do anything with the carbs or is there potential for some kind of "lock" that might occur when it fires?

[Nessism]

I'd remove the spark plugs and spin the engine over with the starter after putting a rag over each hole to catch any possible gas that might shoot out. Other than this and changing the oil you should be okay. Oh, and your float needles are a little weak since they should be able to hold back the fuel flow.

[1948man]

Thanks Ed.

[1948man]

I usually change the oil warm/hot. I guess, in this case, it's no big deal to change it cold?

[bradleymaynar]

The only reason I can see for draining oil from a warm engine is to speed the process a bit IMO. The oil settles in the pan when the engine hasn't run, it may just take a little longer to drain with the oil cold.

My vote would be for a complete oil and filter change. Just to be safe. And it certaintly can't hurt anything.

Brad bk

[1948man]

Thanks Brad, got the filter and gasket and a jug of 15W40 dino Rotella and am going to change this weekend. Now if I can just resist the temptation to over tighten those filter cover bolts.