New KZ Rider

Hello. My name is Tom and I am brand new to the motorcycle and KZ world. I just purchased a non running 1980 KZ440 as a starter bike and am already running into trouble. I inspected and cleaned the carburetor, but I am still not getting fuel. I can see through all the jets so I know they are not plugged. I noticed that the vacuum hose on the right side carburetor has been plugged with a bolt by the previous owner, and I do not see a hole at all in one of the carburetor's pilot airscrew. The bike has new gas, new oil, a clean filter, and will fire up for a second with starter fluid in the carburetor. Is there something I am overlooking? It seems like it should be an easy fix. I appreciate any help, and thank the administrator(s) for creating such a resourceful site. Thank you,
Tom

Hi Tom,

Welcome to ZJungle!

A Problem like you describe usually results from a blocked pilot jet or low speed circuit. Do you have a manual?

Why don't you post something about it in the carb forum?

Welcome aboard.

Bill
KZCSI

I do have a manual, and I will post in the carburetor section, thank you for the suggestion. I did notice that I could not see through the pilot jet, but I thought this was due to its passage taking a turn. Should I be able to clearly see through the pilot jet into the carburetor? Thank you for your help.
Tom

Is the petcock turned on?

donthekawguy wrote:

Is the petcock turned on?

The petcock is turned on and fuel is flowing. I have created a thread in the carburetor section that contains more information. Thank you for the help.

Not to be a wise-guy, but maybe the carbs and fuel aren't the problem. It could be a small bit of dirt blocking the float valve, but usually that doesn't happen on all the carbs at the same time. Check the plugs to make sure they are clean and firing. The start up/short-run/shut down sounds like dirty plugs. Ether is a much hotter fuel than gas so it lights easier but burns off quick leading to a shut down. Pull one plug at a time spin the engine and see what you have. Plugs are cheap enough, so a fresh set is worth the investment. Good Luck. - Jim

Don't know squat about the 440's, but I can welcome you to KZR!