Recommendation for Valkyrie Tuner

louie wrote:
> "BJayKana" <JayKana RemoveThis @webtv.net> wrote in message
> news:8146-44FF373A-249@storefull-3336.bay.webtv.net...
> >
> >
> >
> > bjay RemoveThis @webtv.net
> > Bud, there are three Valkyrie owners that partiscipate on this group.I
> > am one of them
> > I havent had mine long, maybe about 2500 miles.
> > I cannot recommend anyone other than your local Honda store.
> > I trust -our- local store to work on any of mine, always have. I assumed
> > all Bike mechanics were fairly expensive.
> > ~The symptoms sounds like fouled plugs, or loose battery cable, bad
> > fuel, etc.
> > (?)Do you realize or remember the choke on a valk is hard to push to
> > 'full choke', and fairly hard to close.~ I have never had a Honda that
> > the choke was so stiff. I took mine back, and ask them if something is
> > wrong,the tech said you really have to push, & pull.~ Maybe you are
> > running with some of the choke on. I know Ive done that on the Shadow,
> > and it backfired, and ran ruff & smoked.
> > Bud,I know I would take mine to the Honda Store soon.
> > ==================================
> > budandhazel RemoveThis @yahoo.com (Bud)
> >
> > 'Sorry, I forgot to mention - I'm in the Dallas area.''
> > Bud wrote:
> > I need a recommendation for a good and inexpensive Valkyrie Tuner
> > (mechanic). Or, if my problem is a common one, perhaps some things to
> > check myself. I'm reasonably handy and have a pretty complete metric
> > toolset.
> > It's a 1998 Valkyrie with about 4,500 miles. I bought it new, as
> > very-old unsold inventory, in 2002. I generally only ride it around on
> > weekends.
> > After sitting for a week or so, I always need the choke for a few
> > minutes. After warm-up, the choke can be gradually opened and the engine
> > pulls strongly.
> > Recently, after about a two-week layup (just couldn't handle sitting at
> > lights in 104-degree weather), I started up the bike and noticed a
> > glitch in the way it's running.
> > Even after warmup, the engine stumbles when the throttle is cracked just
> > above idle. And when I pull away from a stop, I have to keep the revs up
> > more than usual to keep the engine from trying to stall. It seems to
> > pull strong when I open the throttle more fully.
> > Also, it used to idle around 850 RPM when hot, but now it idles around
> > 650-700.
> > Finally, when I roll off the throttle to slow down (engine braking), I
> > hear some exhaust popping (not a real backfire, just popping) from the
> > right-side exhaust only.
> > It reminds me of the way my Yamaha 650 twin used to run if I got the two
> > carbs way out of synch, but I can't imagine how that would happen to
> > this bike while it slept in the garage.
> > I've put about 100 additional miles on it now, and no change in the way
> > it's running.
> > Any and all suggestions welcome! BUD~
> >
>
> Run your finger along the vacuum hoses that come off of the backside of the
> intake tubes (the six tubes between carburetors and head). I've heard it is
> common for these to split/crack and cause symptoms as you describe.
>
> Also given the limited use of the Valk you could have fuel problems, i.e.,
> old gasoline, fuel filter plugged.
>
> ...louie

Louie,

Thanks, I'll have a look at those hoses. I don't really think my gas
was bad, it was put in the tank only two weeks before the problem
suddenly started, and I think the bike was running fine when parked.
Two-week-old gas shouldn't be an issue. Plus, I've put on about 100
miles and refilled the tank since then, with no change in performance.


On the off chance that it could be gunk, though, I may also try the
carb cleaner additive suggested by another poster..
 >> Stay informed about: Recommendation for Valkyrie Tuner 

BJayKana wrote:
> bjay DeleteThis @webtv.net
> Bud, there are three Valkyrie owners that partiscipate on this group.I
> am one of them
> I havent had mine long, maybe about 2500 miles.
> I cannot recommend anyone other than your local Honda store.
> I trust -our- local store to work on any of mine, always have. I
> assumed all Bike mechanics were fairly expensive.
> ~The symptoms sounds like fouled plugs, or loose battery cable, bad
> fuel, etc.
> (?)Do you realize or remember the choke on a valk is hard to push to
> 'full choke', and fairly hard to close.~ I have never had a Honda that
> the choke was so stiff. I took mine back, and ask them if something is
> wrong,the tech said you really have to push, & pull.~ Maybe you are
> running with some of the choke on. I know Ive done that on the Shadow,
> and it backfired, and ran ruff & smoked.
> Bud,I know I would take mine to the Honda Store soon.
> ==================================
> budandhazel DeleteThis @yahoo.com (Bud)
>
> 'Sorry, I forgot to mention - I'm in the Dallas area.''
> Bud wrote:
> I need a recommendation for a good and inexpensive Valkyrie Tuner
> (mechanic). Or, if my problem is a common one, perhaps some things to
> check myself. I'm reasonably handy and have a pretty complete metric
> toolset.
> It's a 1998 Valkyrie with about 4,500 miles. I bought it new, as
> very-old unsold inventory, in 2002. I generally only ride it around on
> weekends.
> After sitting for a week or so, I always need the choke for a few
> minutes. After warm-up, the choke can be gradually opened and the
> engine pulls strongly.
> Recently, after about a two-week layup (just couldn't handle sitting
> at lights in 104-degree weather), I started up the bike and noticed a
> glitch in the way it's running.
> Even after warmup, the engine stumbles when the throttle is cracked
> just above idle. And when I pull away from a stop, I have to keep the
> revs up more than usual to keep the engine from trying to stall. It
> seems to pull strong when I open the throttle more fully.
> Also, it used to idle around 850 RPM when hot, but now it idles around
> 650-700.
> Finally, when I roll off the throttle to slow down (engine braking), I
> hear some exhaust popping (not a real backfire, just popping) from the
> right-side exhaust only.
> It reminds me of the way my Yamaha 650 twin used to run if I got the
> two carbs way out of synch, but I can't imagine how that would happen
> to this bike while it slept in the garage.
> I've put about 100 additional miles on it now, and no change in the
> way it's running.
> Any and all suggestions welcome! BUD~

Carbs are so 20th century. It seems ironic that H-D don't make bikes with
them them any more.

--
"Wakko" NTXNS TOMKAT SENS PHS BS#257
'06 FLHTCUSE "Ultra Chicken"
'03 FLSTSI - "BlingBling" (under reconstruction)
 >> Stay informed about: Recommendation for Valkyrie Tuner 

"Bud" <budandhazel.TakeThisOut@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:1157570992.805093.219210@i42g2000cwa.googlegroups.com...
>I need a recommendation for a good and inexpensive Valkyrie Tuner
> (mechanic). Or, if my problem is a common one, perhaps some things to
> check myself. I'm reasonably handy and have a pretty complete metric
> toolset.
>
> It's a 1998 Valkyrie with about 4,500 miles. I bought it new, as
> very-old unsold inventory, in 2002. I generally only ride it around on
> weekends.
>
> After sitting for a week or so, I always need the choke for a few
> minutes. After warm-up, the choke can be gradually opened and the
> engine pulls strongly.
>
> Recently, after about a two-week layup (just couldn't handle sitting at
> lights in 104-degree weather), I started up the bike and noticed a
> glitch in the way it's running.
>
> Even after warmup, the engine stumbles when the throttle is cracked
> just above idle. And when I pull away from a stop, I have to keep the
> revs up more than usual to keep the engine from trying to stall. It
> seems to pull strong when I open the throttle more fully.
>
> Also, it used to idle around 850 RPM when hot, but now it idles around
> 650-700.
>
> Finally, when I roll off the throttle to slow down (engine braking), I
> hear some exhaust popping (not a real backfire, just popping) from the
> right-side exhaust only.
>
> It reminds me of the way my Yamaha 650 twin used to run if I got the
> two carbs way out of synch, but I can't imagine how that would happen
> to this bike while it slept in the garage.
>
> I've put about 100 additional miles on it now, and no change in the way
> it's running.
>
> Any and all suggestions welcome!
>

Run a finger along the little vacuum hoses coming off of the backside of the
intake tubes (the six tubes between the carburetors and head). I've heard it
is common for those to crack/split and cause such symptoms as you describe.

....louie
 >> Stay informed about: Recommendation for Valkyrie Tuner 

"BJayKana" <JayKana RemoveThis @webtv.net> wrote in message
news:8146-44FF373A-249@storefull-3336.bay.webtv.net...
>
>
>
> bjay RemoveThis @webtv.net
> Bud, there are three Valkyrie owners that partiscipate on this group.I
> am one of them
> I havent had mine long, maybe about 2500 miles.
> I cannot recommend anyone other than your local Honda store.
> I trust -our- local store to work on any of mine, always have. I assumed
> all Bike mechanics were fairly expensive.
> ~The symptoms sounds like fouled plugs, or loose battery cable, bad
> fuel, etc.
> (?)Do you realize or remember the choke on a valk is hard to push to
> 'full choke', and fairly hard to close.~ I have never had a Honda that
> the choke was so stiff. I took mine back, and ask them if something is
> wrong,the tech said you really have to push, & pull.~ Maybe you are
> running with some of the choke on. I know Ive done that on the Shadow,
> and it backfired, and ran ruff & smoked.
> Bud,I know I would take mine to the Honda Store soon.
> ==================================
> budandhazel RemoveThis @yahoo.com (Bud)
>
> 'Sorry, I forgot to mention - I'm in the Dallas area.''
> Bud wrote:
> I need a recommendation for a good and inexpensive Valkyrie Tuner
> (mechanic). Or, if my problem is a common one, perhaps some things to
> check myself. I'm reasonably handy and have a pretty complete metric
> toolset.
> It's a 1998 Valkyrie with about 4,500 miles. I bought it new, as
> very-old unsold inventory, in 2002. I generally only ride it around on
> weekends.
> After sitting for a week or so, I always need the choke for a few
> minutes. After warm-up, the choke can be gradually opened and the engine
> pulls strongly.
> Recently, after about a two-week layup (just couldn't handle sitting at
> lights in 104-degree weather), I started up the bike and noticed a
> glitch in the way it's running.
> Even after warmup, the engine stumbles when the throttle is cracked just
> above idle. And when I pull away from a stop, I have to keep the revs up
> more than usual to keep the engine from trying to stall. It seems to
> pull strong when I open the throttle more fully.
> Also, it used to idle around 850 RPM when hot, but now it idles around
> 650-700.
> Finally, when I roll off the throttle to slow down (engine braking), I
> hear some exhaust popping (not a real backfire, just popping) from the
> right-side exhaust only.
> It reminds me of the way my Yamaha 650 twin used to run if I got the two
> carbs way out of synch, but I can't imagine how that would happen to
> this bike while it slept in the garage.
> I've put about 100 additional miles on it now, and no change in the way
> it's running.
> Any and all suggestions welcome! BUD~
>

Run your finger along the vacuum hoses that come off of the backside of the
intake tubes (the six tubes between carburetors and head). I've heard it is
common for these to split/crack and cause symptoms as you describe.

Also given the limited use of the Valk you could have fuel problems, i.e.,
old gasoline, fuel filter plugged.

....louie
 >> Stay informed about: Recommendation for Valkyrie Tuner 

"Bud" <budandhazel RemoveThis @yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:1157570992.805093.219210@i42g2000cwa.googlegroups.com...
>I need a recommendation for a good and inexpensive Valkyrie Tuner
> (mechanic). Or, if my problem is a common one, perhaps some things to
> check myself. I'm reasonably handy and have a pretty complete metric
> toolset.
>
> It's a 1998 Valkyrie with about 4,500 miles. I bought it new, as
> very-old unsold inventory, in 2002. I generally only ride it around on
> weekends.
>
> After sitting for a week or so, I always need the choke for a few
> minutes. After warm-up, the choke can be gradually opened and the
> engine pulls strongly.
>
> Recently, after about a two-week layup (just couldn't handle sitting at
> lights in 104-degree weather), I started up the bike and noticed a
> glitch in the way it's running.
>
> Even after warmup, the engine stumbles when the throttle is cracked
> just above idle. And when I pull away from a stop, I have to keep the
> revs up more than usual to keep the engine from trying to stall. It
> seems to pull strong when I open the throttle more fully.
>
> Also, it used to idle around 850 RPM when hot, but now it idles around
> 650-700.
>
> Finally, when I roll off the throttle to slow down (engine braking), I
> hear some exhaust popping (not a real backfire, just popping) from the
> right-side exhaust only.
>
> It reminds me of the way my Yamaha 650 twin used to run if I got the
> two carbs way out of synch, but I can't imagine how that would happen
> to this bike while it slept in the garage.
>
> I've put about 100 additional miles on it now, and no change in the way
> it's running.
>
> Any and all suggestions welcome!
>

First thing I would do is buy some Berrymans Chemtool and put in in the gas
tank. Follow the directions. This is good stuff and will make your bike run
better. Fill up with Shell (while using the Berrymans) or some other name
brand and ride the bike. Gas will gum up over time and gunk up your system.

Plain and simple, you are not riding the bike enough to run the gas through
it to keep the system clean. Bring it to me and I will take care of that
issue for you by riding it for you. Or, better yet, sell it to me cheap
since you are not riding it.

One other thing, if after riding a tank of gas out of it, it does not run
better, check the exhaust to make sure the bolts are tight and make sure you
do not have a leaking vacuum hose. Changing the vacuum hoses is not for the
faint of heart on your Valkyrie. Good luck.

Jerry
 >> Stay informed about: Recommendation for Valkyrie Tuner 

I don't have a lot to offer, I've read all the responses
thus far, and all make good points.

Additionally, I've experienced the vacuum leak(s) men-
tioned. They have several symptoms. But, one usually
can identify this experience. You can hear a hissing type
sound, synchronized with engine speed. Mine was
always louder on the 135 bank. Further, if I was to put
on a moderate engine load(by power braking) the hiss-
ing noise would be much stronger.

I would also suggest that some of the symptoms you
describe are a product of(wholly or partly) the gaso-
line/fuel in Dallas. Personally, I don't have much problem
with fuel here, but I do get deceleration popping.

Another hint not previously mentioned, is the condition
of the battery. I just replaced an OEM battery after six
years of use. The mileage at my battery swap was around
41.6K. However, although the OEM battery had done
ok up until the very end, I was shocked to see just how
much the battery had deteriorated over the years, when
measured against the new install. Not only does the bike
start much easier, with less choke required, but warms up
faster, and runs much better.

As I said, all the previous responses are certainly valid,
and I'd investigate them fully before seeking any kind of
more complicated solution, until those have been reviewed.

Thanks,

Gary






"Bud" <budandhazel.DeleteThis@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:1157570992.805093.219210@i42g2000cwa.googlegroups.com...
>I need a recommendation for a good and inexpensive Valkyrie Tuner
> (mechanic). Or, if my problem is a common one, perhaps some things to
> check myself. I'm reasonably handy and have a pretty complete metric
> toolset.
>
> It's a 1998 Valkyrie with about 4,500 miles. I bought it new, as
> very-old unsold inventory, in 2002. I generally only ride it around on
> weekends.
>
> After sitting for a week or so, I always need the choke for a few
> minutes. After warm-up, the choke can be gradually opened and the
> engine pulls strongly.
>
> Recently, after about a two-week layup (just couldn't handle sitting at
> lights in 104-degree weather), I started up the bike and noticed a
> glitch in the way it's running.
>
> Even after warmup, the engine stumbles when the throttle is cracked
> just above idle. And when I pull away from a stop, I have to keep the
> revs up more than usual to keep the engine from trying to stall. It
> seems to pull strong when I open the throttle more fully.
>
> Also, it used to idle around 850 RPM when hot, but now it idles around
> 650-700.
>
> Finally, when I roll off the throttle to slow down (engine braking), I
> hear some exhaust popping (not a real backfire, just popping) from the
> right-side exhaust only.
>
> It reminds me of the way my Yamaha 650 twin used to run if I got the
> two carbs way out of synch, but I can't imagine how that would happen
> to this bike while it slept in the garage.
>
> I've put about 100 additional miles on it now, and no change in the way
> it's running.
>
> Any and all suggestions welcome!
>
 >> Stay informed about: Recommendation for Valkyrie Tuner 

On 6 Sep 2006 12:29:52 -0700, "Bud" <budandhazel.RemoveThis@yahoo.com> wrote:

>I need a recommendation for a good and inexpensive Valkyrie Tuner
>(mechanic). Or, if my problem is a common one, perhaps some things to
>check myself. I'm reasonably handy and have a pretty complete metric
>toolset.
>
>It's a 1998 Valkyrie with about 4,500 miles. I bought it new, as
>very-old unsold inventory, in 2002. I generally only ride it around on
>weekends.
>
>After sitting for a week or so, I always need the choke for a few
>minutes. After warm-up, the choke can be gradually opened and the
>engine pulls strongly.
>
>Recently, after about a two-week layup (just couldn't handle sitting at
>lights in 104-degree weather), I started up the bike and noticed a
>glitch in the way it's running.
>
>Even after warmup, the engine stumbles when the throttle is cracked
>just above idle. And when I pull away from a stop, I have to keep the
>revs up more than usual to keep the engine from trying to stall. It
>seems to pull strong when I open the throttle more fully.
>
>Also, it used to idle around 850 RPM when hot, but now it idles around
>650-700.
>
>Finally, when I roll off the throttle to slow down (engine braking), I
>hear some exhaust popping (not a real backfire, just popping) from the
>right-side exhaust only.
>
>It reminds me of the way my Yamaha 650 twin used to run if I got the
>two carbs way out of synch, but I can't imagine how that would happen
>to this bike while it slept in the garage.
>
>I've put about 100 additional miles on it now, and no change in the way
>it's running.
>
>Any and all suggestions welcome!

You're not riding the bike long enough or often enough. Sounds to me
like evaporating gasoline has left the idle jets plugged with varnish.
I see one person suggested Berrymans and I would echo his comment. If
not Berrymans use Sea Foam. Add a can to your tank and go ride. Make
sure you are running at all RPMs including low RPM's and idle.

Check the manual for a Valk to see what it should idle at. 650 to 800
sounds a little low to me.
--


Don
RCOS# 7
If Hezbollah was to lay down their arms
there would be no war.
If the Israelis are to lay down their arms
there would be no Israel

2000 - Yamaha Venture Millenium Edition
 >> Stay informed about: Recommendation for Valkyrie Tuner 

"Gary Walker" <twf.TakeThisOut@swbell.net> wrote in message
news:0qILg.21850$kO3.15127@newssvr12.news.prodigy.com...
>
> I don't have a lot to offer, I've read all the responses
> thus far, and all make good points.
>
> Additionally, I've experienced the vacuum leak(s) men-
> tioned. They have several symptoms. But, one usually
> can identify this experience. You can hear a hissing type
> sound, synchronized with engine speed. Mine was
> always louder on the 135 bank. Further, if I was to put
> on a moderate engine load(by power braking) the hiss-
> ing noise would be much stronger.
>
> I would also suggest that some of the symptoms you
> describe are a product of(wholly or partly) the gaso-
> line/fuel in Dallas. Personally, I don't have much problem
> with fuel here, but I do get deceleration popping.
>
> Another hint not previously mentioned, is the condition
> of the battery. I just replaced an OEM battery after six
> years of use. The mileage at my battery swap was around
> 41.6K. However, although the OEM battery had done
> ok up until the very end, I was shocked to see just how
> much the battery had deteriorated over the years, when
> measured against the new install. Not only does the bike
> start much easier, with less choke required, but warms up
> faster, and runs much better.
>
> As I said, all the previous responses are certainly valid,
> and I'd investigate them fully before seeking any kind of
> more complicated solution, until those have been reviewed.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Gary
>
>
>
>
>
>
> "Bud" <budandhazel.TakeThisOut@yahoo.com> wrote in message
> news:1157570992.805093.219210@i42g2000cwa.googlegroups.com...
>>I need a recommendation for a good and inexpensive Valkyrie Tuner
>> (mechanic). Or, if my problem is a common one, perhaps some things to
>> check myself. I'm reasonably handy and have a pretty complete metric
>> toolset.
>>
>> It's a 1998 Valkyrie with about 4,500 miles. I bought it new, as
>> very-old unsold inventory, in 2002. I generally only ride it around on
>> weekends.
>>
>> After sitting for a week or so, I always need the choke for a few
>> minutes. After warm-up, the choke can be gradually opened and the
>> engine pulls strongly.
>>
>> Recently, after about a two-week layup (just couldn't handle sitting at
>> lights in 104-degree weather), I started up the bike and noticed a
>> glitch in the way it's running.
>>
>> Even after warmup, the engine stumbles when the throttle is cracked
>> just above idle. And when I pull away from a stop, I have to keep the
>> revs up more than usual to keep the engine from trying to stall. It
>> seems to pull strong when I open the throttle more fully.
>>
>> Also, it used to idle around 850 RPM when hot, but now it idles around
>> 650-700.
>>
>> Finally, when I roll off the throttle to slow down (engine braking), I
>> hear some exhaust popping (not a real backfire, just popping) from the
>> right-side exhaust only.
>>
>> It reminds me of the way my Yamaha 650 twin used to run if I got the
>> two carbs way out of synch, but I can't imagine how that would happen
>> to this bike while it slept in the garage.
>>
>> I've put about 100 additional miles on it now, and no change in the way
>> it's running.
>>
>> Any and all suggestions welcome!
>>
>
>

I think the battery is an excellent candidate for review. It very well could
be bad. My bet is on the gas needing to be run out while using an additive
and fresh gas put back in. If he would sell it to me cheap, by the time I
got back to Houston on it, I just know it would run fine.

Jerry
 >> Stay informed about: Recommendation for Valkyrie Tuner 

Bud <budandhazel.RemoveThis@yahoo.com> wrote:
: I need a recommendation for a good and inexpensive Valkyrie Tuner
: (mechanic). Or, if my problem is a common one, perhaps some things to
: check myself. I'm reasonably handy and have a pretty complete metric
: toolset.

Sounds like an intake or vacuum leak. With the bike idling, spray
WD-40 around the intake manifolds and see if the idle changes. You can do
the same with the hoses, just might take a little longer for the idle to
change.

--
George Pollard BS235
"An organic pain collector, racing to oblivion"
Ride reports: http://georgerides.blogspot.com/
There's only 1 RE
 >> Stay informed about: Recommendation for Valkyrie Tuner 

Calgary wrote:
> On 6 Sep 2006 12:29:52 -0700, "Bud" <budandhazel RemoveThis @yahoo.com> wrote:
>
> >I need a recommendation for a good and inexpensive Valkyrie Tuner
> >(mechanic). Or, if my problem is a common one, perhaps some things to
> >check myself. I'm reasonably handy and have a pretty complete metric
> >toolset.
> >
> >It's a 1998 Valkyrie with about 4,500 miles. I bought it new, as
> >very-old unsold inventory, in 2002. I generally only ride it around on
> >weekends.
> >
> >After sitting for a week or so, I always need the choke for a few
> >minutes. After warm-up, the choke can be gradually opened and the
> >engine pulls strongly.
> >
> >Recently, after about a two-week layup (just couldn't handle sitting at
> >lights in 104-degree weather), I started up the bike and noticed a
> >glitch in the way it's running.
> >
> >Even after warmup, the engine stumbles when the throttle is cracked
> >just above idle. And when I pull away from a stop, I have to keep the
> >revs up more than usual to keep the engine from trying to stall. It
> >seems to pull strong when I open the throttle more fully.
> >
> >Also, it used to idle around 850 RPM when hot, but now it idles around
> >650-700.
> >
> >Finally, when I roll off the throttle to slow down (engine braking), I
> >hear some exhaust popping (not a real backfire, just popping) from the
> >right-side exhaust only.
> >
> >It reminds me of the way my Yamaha 650 twin used to run if I got the
> >two carbs way out of synch, but I can't imagine how that would happen
> >to this bike while it slept in the garage.
> >
> >I've put about 100 additional miles on it now, and no change in the way
> >it's running.
> >
> >Any and all suggestions welcome!
>
> You're not riding the bike long enough or often enough. Sounds to me
> like evaporating gasoline has left the idle jets plugged with varnish.
> I see one person suggested Berrymans and I would echo his comment. If
> not Berrymans use Sea Foam. Add a can to your tank and go ride. Make
> sure you are running at all RPMs including low RPM's and idle.
>
> Check the manual for a Valk to see what it should idle at. 650 to 800
> sounds a little low to me.
> --
>
>
> Don
> RCOS# 7
> If Hezbollah was to lay down their arms
> there would be no war.
> If the Israelis are to lay down their arms
> there would be no Israel
>
> 2000 - Yamaha Venture Millenium Edition

Hi Don,

Daily riding isn't an option for me, as I'm only home a couple of days
each week, sometimes less. Unless, of course, Jerry is willing to come
up from Houston every day or two and put a couple of hours on it

I'm certain the gas in it is fresh, but of course it's possible that
there is residue from prior evaporation. This weekend I will try the
Berrymans and will check the vacuum hoses. Vacuum is a logical
problem, as air leaks generally affect low-speed running and not high
speed, where the extra air becomes insignificant compared with the
total flow.

Do I need to remove the tank to inspect the vacuum lines? I haven't
had the tank off before, but I assume it will be obvious how to remove
it. I can't remember how much is and isn't visible from the side of
the bike.
 >> Stay informed about: Recommendation for Valkyrie Tuner 

"Bud" <budandhazel DeleteThis @yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:1157639027.828600.57210@b28g2000cwb.googlegroups.com...
>
> Calgary wrote:
>> On 6 Sep 2006 12:29:52 -0700, "Bud" <budandhazel DeleteThis @yahoo.com> wrote:
>>
>> >I need a recommendation for a good and inexpensive Valkyrie Tuner
>> >(mechanic). Or, if my problem is a common one, perhaps some things to
>> >check myself. I'm reasonably handy and have a pretty complete metric
>> >toolset.
>> >
>> >It's a 1998 Valkyrie with about 4,500 miles. I bought it new, as
>> >very-old unsold inventory, in 2002. I generally only ride it around on
>> >weekends.
>> >
>> >After sitting for a week or so, I always need the choke for a few
>> >minutes. After warm-up, the choke can be gradually opened and the
>> >engine pulls strongly.
>> >
>> >Recently, after about a two-week layup (just couldn't handle sitting at
>> >lights in 104-degree weather), I started up the bike and noticed a
>> >glitch in the way it's running.
>> >
>> >Even after warmup, the engine stumbles when the throttle is cracked
>> >just above idle. And when I pull away from a stop, I have to keep the
>> >revs up more than usual to keep the engine from trying to stall. It
>> >seems to pull strong when I open the throttle more fully.
>> >
>> >Also, it used to idle around 850 RPM when hot, but now it idles around
>> >650-700.
>> >
>> >Finally, when I roll off the throttle to slow down (engine braking), I
>> >hear some exhaust popping (not a real backfire, just popping) from the
>> >right-side exhaust only.
>> >
>> >It reminds me of the way my Yamaha 650 twin used to run if I got the
>> >two carbs way out of synch, but I can't imagine how that would happen
>> >to this bike while it slept in the garage.
>> >
>> >I've put about 100 additional miles on it now, and no change in the way
>> >it's running.
>> >
>> >Any and all suggestions welcome!
>>
>> You're not riding the bike long enough or often enough. Sounds to me
>> like evaporating gasoline has left the idle jets plugged with varnish.
>> I see one person suggested Berrymans and I would echo his comment. If
>> not Berrymans use Sea Foam. Add a can to your tank and go ride. Make
>> sure you are running at all RPMs including low RPM's and idle.
>>
>> Check the manual for a Valk to see what it should idle at. 650 to 800
>> sounds a little low to me.
>> --
>>
>>
>> Don
>> RCOS# 7
>> If Hezbollah was to lay down their arms
>> there would be no war.
>> If the Israelis are to lay down their arms
>> there would be no Israel
>>
>> 2000 - Yamaha Venture Millenium Edition
>
> Hi Don,
>
> Daily riding isn't an option for me, as I'm only home a couple of days
> each week, sometimes less. Unless, of course, Jerry is willing to come
> up from Houston every day or two and put a couple of hours on it
>
> I'm certain the gas in it is fresh, but of course it's possible that
> there is residue from prior evaporation. This weekend I will try the
> Berrymans and will check the vacuum hoses. Vacuum is a logical
> problem, as air leaks generally affect low-speed running and not high
> speed, where the extra air becomes insignificant compared with the
> total flow.
>
> Do I need to remove the tank to inspect the vacuum lines? I haven't
> had the tank off before, but I assume it will be obvious how to remove
> it. I can't remember how much is and isn't visible from the side of
> the bike.
>

Bud, if I can offer advice again. Try and ride at least one tank (2 if you
can) of gas out this weekend with berrymans in it. This stuff is so good it
will mix with water and burn. I would use about half the can per tank to get
it clean.

Since this bike is 8+ years old with such low miles, it has had a lot of
time for the fuel to gunk up. If you can, put the berrymans in now and fill
up the tank and try and ride it for 10 or 20 miles to get the fresh gas and
berrymans into the carbs so it can be working to dissolve things until you
can ride it. Do not spill any Berrymans on anything painted that you want to
keep painted.

I would really doubt the vacuum hoses are bad, unless it has been in the sun
and weather a lot, but they could be. It is a pain in the ass major league
to change the vacuum hoses on the Valkyrie and it is not worth the effort
unless it is truly needed. If you do change them, you can get some high
temperature silicone hose from the parts house that comes in red or black
cheaper than what Honda would charge you.

If anything is loose, I would suspect the exhaust where it bolts onto the
head. Honda bolts are soft, so using your manly, gorilla strength will only
bring you sorrow.

If you need some help, I can send you my phone number.

And, the offer for me to buy it really cheap still stands.

I should be one to talk, I have not put 1000 miles on mine since I hurt my
back a year ago.

Good luck.

Jerry
 >> Stay informed about: Recommendation for Valkyrie Tuner 

"Jerry" wrote:>"Gary Walker" <twf RemoveThis @swbell.net> wrote in message
>news:0qILg.21850$kO3.15127@newssvr12.news.prodigy.com...>>>> I don't
have a lot to offer, I've read all the responses>> thus far, and all
make good points.>>>> Additionally, I've experienced the vacuum leak(s)
men->> tioned. They have several symptoms. But, one usually>> can
identify this experience. You can hear a hissing type>> sound,
synchronized with engine speed. Mine was>> always louder on the 135
bank. Further, if I was to put>> on a moderate engine load(by power
braking) the hiss->> ing noise would be much stronger.>>>> I would also
suggest that some of the symptoms you>> describe are a product of(wholly
or partly) the gaso->> line/fuel in Dallas. Personally, I don't have
much problem>> with fuel here, but I do get deceleration popping.>>>>
Another hint not previously mentioned, is the condition>> of the
battery. I just replaced an OEM battery after six>> years of use. The
mileage at my battery swap was around>> 41.6K. However, although the OEM
battery had done>> ok up until the very end, I was shocked to see just
how>> much the battery had deteriorated over the years, when>> measured
against the new install. Not only does the bike>> start much easier,
with less choke required, but warms up>> faster, and runs much
better.>>>> As I said, all the previous responses are certainly valid,>>
and I'd investigate them fully before seeking any kind of>> more
complicated solution, until those have been reviewed.>>>> Thanks,>>>>
Gary>>>>>>>>>>>>>> "Bud" <budandhazel RemoveThis @yahoo.com> wrote in message >>
news:1157570992.805093.219210@i42g2000cwa.googlegroups.com...>>>I need a
recommendation for a good and inexpensive Valkyrie Tuner>>> (mechanic).
Or, if my problem is a common one, perhaps some things to>>> check
myself. I'm reasonably handy and have a pretty complete metric>>>
toolset.>>>>>> It's a 1998 Valkyrie with about 4,500 miles. I bought it
new, as>>> very-old unsold inventory, in 2002. I generally only ride it
around on>>> weekends.>>>>>> After sitting for a week or so, I always
need the choke for a few>>> minutes. After warm-up, the choke can be
gradually opened and the>>> engine pulls strongly.>>>>>> Recently, after
about a two-week layup (just couldn't handle sitting at>>> lights in
104-degree weather), I started up the bike and noticed a>>> glitch in
the way it's running.>>>>>> Even after warmup, the engine stumbles when
the throttle is cracked>>> just above idle. And when I pull away from a
stop, I have to keep the>>> revs up more than usual to keep the engine
from trying to stall. It>>> seems to pull strong when I open the
throttle more fully.>>>>>> Also, it used to idle around 850 RPM when
hot, but now it idles around>>> 650-700.>>>>>> Finally, when I roll off
the throttle to slow down (engine braking), I>>> hear some exhaust
popping (not a real backfire, just popping) from the>>> right-side
exhaust only.>>>>>> It reminds me of the way my Yamaha 650 twin used to
run if I got the>>> two carbs way out of synch, but I can't imagine how
that would happen>>> to this bike while it slept in the garage.>>>>>>
I've put about 100 additional miles on it now, and no change in the
way>>> it's running.>>>>>> Any and all suggestions welcome!>>>>>>>>>I
think the battery is an excellent candidate for review. It very well
could >be bad. My bet is on the gas needing to be run out while using an
additive >and fresh gas put back in. If he would sell it to me cheap, by
the time I >got back to Houston on it, I just know it would run
fine.>>Jerry >>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Hey Jerry, trailering it
back to Houston wouldnt do the job. Just messing with ya. How is your
Back doing? ~Talking about the ''choke''lever on the bars, that I
mentioned. ~Is yours stiff like I mentioned? <g>~Mine really is
exceptionlly stiff to push to full choke. It ain't now, that I'm use to
it.~But when I first got the Big V. I was not 'slidding it enough for it
to be on full! ~Anyway.how do ya' like my news Newsgroup provider, that
I am trying out here. I think it is sorta close to how your system works
on the computer. OVER? BJK

--
Sent via MotorCycle Newsgroups
http://www.motorcyclenewsgroups.com
 >> Stay informed about: Recommendation for Valkyrie Tuner 

"Bjay" <jaykana.DeleteThis@webtv.net> wrote in message
news:1157668965_76107@sp6iad.superfeed.net...
> "Jerry" wrote:>"Gary Walker" <twf.DeleteThis@swbell.net> wrote in message
>>news:0qILg.21850$kO3.15127@newssvr12.news.prodigy.com...>>>> I don't
> have a lot to offer, I've read all the responses>> thus far, and all
> make good points.>>>> Additionally, I've experienced the vacuum leak(s)
> men->> tioned. They have several symptoms. But, one usually>> can
> identify this experience. You can hear a hissing type>> sound,
> synchronized with engine speed. Mine was>> always louder on the 135
> bank. Further, if I was to put>> on a moderate engine load(by power
> braking) the hiss->> ing noise would be much stronger.>>>> I would also
> suggest that some of the symptoms you>> describe are a product of(wholly
> or partly) the gaso->> line/fuel in Dallas. Personally, I don't have
> much problem>> with fuel here, but I do get deceleration popping.>>>>
> Another hint not previously mentioned, is the condition>> of the
> battery. I just replaced an OEM battery after six>> years of use. The
> mileage at my battery swap was around>> 41.6K. However, although the OEM
> battery had done>> ok up until the very end, I was shocked to see just
> how>> much the battery had deteriorated over the years, when>> measured
> against the new install. Not only does the bike>> start much easier,
> with less choke required, but warms up>> faster, and runs much
> better.>>>> As I said, all the previous responses are certainly valid,>>
> and I'd investigate them fully before seeking any kind of>> more
> complicated solution, until those have been reviewed.>>>> Thanks,>>>>
> Gary>>>>>>>>>>>>>> "Bud" <budandhazel.DeleteThis@yahoo.com> wrote in message >>
> news:1157570992.805093.219210@i42g2000cwa.googlegroups.com...>>>I need a
> recommendation for a good and inexpensive Valkyrie Tuner>>> (mechanic).
> Or, if my problem is a common one, perhaps some things to>>> check
> myself. I'm reasonably handy and have a pretty complete metric>>>
> toolset.>>>>>> It's a 1998 Valkyrie with about 4,500 miles. I bought it
> new, as>>> very-old unsold inventory, in 2002. I generally only ride it
> around on>>> weekends.>>>>>> After sitting for a week or so, I always
> need the choke for a few>>> minutes. After warm-up, the choke can be
> gradually opened and the>>> engine pulls strongly.>>>>>> Recently, after
> about a two-week layup (just couldn't handle sitting at>>> lights in
> 104-degree weather), I started up the bike and noticed a>>> glitch in
> the way it's running.>>>>>> Even after warmup, the engine stumbles when
> the throttle is cracked>>> just above idle. And when I pull away from a
> stop, I have to keep the>>> revs up more than usual to keep the engine
> from trying to stall. It>>> seems to pull strong when I open the
> throttle more fully.>>>>>> Also, it used to idle around 850 RPM when
> hot, but now it idles around>>> 650-700.>>>>>> Finally, when I roll off
> the throttle to slow down (engine braking), I>>> hear some exhaust
> popping (not a real backfire, just popping) from the>>> right-side
> exhaust only.>>>>>> It reminds me of the way my Yamaha 650 twin used to
> run if I got the>>> two carbs way out of synch, but I can't imagine how
> that would happen>>> to this bike while it slept in the garage.>>>>>>
> I've put about 100 additional miles on it now, and no change in the
> way>>> it's running.>>>>>> Any and all suggestions welcome!>>>>>>>>>I
> think the battery is an excellent candidate for review. It very well
> could >be bad. My bet is on the gas needing to be run out while using an
> additive >and fresh gas put back in. If he would sell it to me cheap, by
> the time I >got back to Houston on it, I just know it would run
> fine.>>Jerry >>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Hey Jerry, trailering it
> back to Houston wouldnt do the job. Just messing with ya. How is your
> Back doing? ~Talking about the ''choke''lever on the bars, that I
> mentioned. ~Is yours stiff like I mentioned? <g>~Mine really is
> exceptionlly stiff to push to full choke. It ain't now, that I'm use to
> it.~But when I first got the Big V. I was not 'slidding it enough for it
> to be on full! ~Anyway.how do ya' like my news Newsgroup provider, that
> I am trying out here. I think it is sorta close to how your system works
> on the computer. OVER? BJK
>

I know u didn't ask me...but that is real nice Bjay..... if not just like
Jerry's system, it's real close.

Keep up the good 'netting ....louie

> --
> Sent via MotorCycle Newsgroups
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