Carburettor refurbishment

[Arctic Fox]

Finally got around to putting the first of four carbs into the sonic tank today, and then thought occurred that I need new gaskets etc.

So, question is, do I need replace other bits? Like jets, valve etc., and does anyone have experience of different part manufacturers?

[ADRIAN H]

I would have thought it was essential to replace buy a carb rebuild kit. You need to buy either Genuine Kawasaki / Mikuni parts , or Keyster carb kits - NRP carbs, Allen’s performance, Saisei.com.

PS I think this thread should be in BIKE HELP.

[Arctic Fox]

Can it be moved? Is it something I can do?

[chrisNI]

Moved.

[Arctic Fox]

Thanks.

In same vein, how can you tell if needles or jets need Replacing?

[chrisNI]

If it’s running ok you don’t... if you’ve never had the carbs on a running engine and you’re going to refurb them you might as well replace anything you can unless you’re trying to save money.

[PAULJAC47]

As Chris said,if they work ok ok leave well alone,i have found a lot of the refurb kits leave a lot to be desired...

[ZedHead]

Pretty much as the guys have said. I see little point in refurbing, only to find out later the bike is not running properly because you have put the old worn out jets back in. I don't know which carb kits Paul has used in the past but have to agree you get what you pay for.

[ADRIAN H]

If it’s running ok you don’t... if you’ve never had the carbs on a running engine and you’re going to refurb them you might as well replace anything you can unless you’re trying to save money.

He says in the original post, he has already put the first carb through ultrasonic cleaner. Therefore In my humble opinion he will require full carburettor rebuild kits. Keyster kits also in my humble opinion the best available. I would not contemplate using any of the cheaper kits available on eBay.

[chrisNI]

Doesn’t change the point that if the carbs came off bike that ran well ultrasonically cleaning the carb bodies wouldn’t mean you needed to throw out all the jets and needles.

[Ultim8pc]

Keyster kits also in my humble opinion the best available. I would not contemplate using any of the cheaper kits available on eBay.

+1 for Keyster. That's what I use.

[Arctic Fox]

For the cost of the gaskets, or gaskets plus jets, I'll go for the latter. I'm short enough on time not to want taking them apart again to replace jets.

Thanks for the comments and advice.