Honda CB400 Hawk motorcycle engine won’t stop dying out? [SOLVED]
I have a 1979 Honda CB400 Hawk motorcycle. I ride it every few weeks in the summer and even start and run in the winter to keep the fuel flowing through the lines. This past weekend it started as usual (full choke), but suddenly the engine dies out within 5 to 10 seconds and won’t start again unless I let it sit for a long time. Should I try Sea Foam in the gas tank? Will that fix the problem?
Thanks for the question Mark. What I would do: The first two things that come to mind are (1) a sticky carburetor float [sticky old fuel varnish is the most common cause of carburetor issues – Sea Foam melts fuel varnish] and (2) whether your fuel filter needs to be replaced. From there I would add a full can of Sea Foam to your tank (don’t add fuel), then remove the spark plugs. With the plugs out, crank the engine several times (10 to 20 seconds) to draw the Sea Foam and gas mixture through the carburetor circuits…Then let the motorcycle sit with the plugs out for at least 24 hours (2 to 3 days is better)…After the sitting and soaking period, put the spark plugs back in and start the motor. If it runs, let it idle at least 5 minutes and then take it for a short ride. You should be good-to-go at that point and can add fresh fuel when needed. Keep in mind that you still have a lot of Sea Foam in the tank to continue cleaning and lubricating as you work through the tank gasoline. Hope this helps!
Jim D.TECH
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