how do i check float levels?

Ok, you guys told me that i should check my float levels on my carburetors. Sorry, not sure how to do that unless that just another name for something. So... how do i check float levels?

Thanks,
KT

The basic concept is that you use clear vinyl tubing and attach it to the float bowl drain. On the tube, use a fine Sharpie pen to mark two horizontal lines that show the correct specified fuel service level for your carbs (usually about 3mm).

Some carb types have a nipple and a valve screw that makes this easy. Other carbs just have a drain screw, and you've got to get a special attachment to connect the tube to the bowl drain.

Is this your KZ1000 we're talking about here? Does it have BS34 carbs? If so, you should have the drain nipples.

Put the bike up on the center stand. Attach one end of the tube to the float bowl, and hold the other end of the tube against the side of the carb body with your marked lines higher than the top of the float bowl. Turn your petcock to "ON" (if non-vacuum petcock), or "PRI" if you have a vacuum petcock. Open the drain valve screw a few turns until you see fuel flowing freely into the tube. Wait until the fuel level stabilizes, then slowly lower the tube until the top line on the tube is even with the top of the float bowl. Do not raise and lower the tube multiple times as this will give you an inaccurate measurement. Just lower it once until your top line is even with the bowl top, then observe the fuel level in the tube. If set correctly, the fuel should be within 1mm of the lower line.

If incorrect, you will need to adjust you float levels by removing the float assembly and bending VERY SLIGHTLY the "tang" that pushes the float valve.

do i bend the tang closer to the needle? Im guessing so. Thank you very much for this information. I'll do this tomorrow if it doesn't rain.

Thanks man,
KT

Kitten Tooth wrote:

do i bend the tang closer to the needle?

That will make the fuel level in the bowl go LOWER since the fuel will cut off at a lower position of the float.

ok, i see. Also, does the hose have to be a certain length? are the two lines 3mm away from the end of the tube?

The hose can be any length within reason. It makes no difference.

And the lines should NOT be at the very end of the hose. My suggestion would be to use a tube with is at least 12" long, and put the markings about 8" from the end that you attach to the bowl.

ok thank you very much, ill check them out as soon as it stops raining.