Kz1000 shaft rich with pods

I have a 1980 kz1000 with pod air filters and i read a lot about these bikes running lean with pods on. I just got it running today and i couldn't get it to run without choke on atleast half way. I pulled a plug and it is black and dry so i believe it is running rich.
Has anyone else had this problem before?

I plan on putting the stock air box back on as soon as i get the parts for it so i don't wanna rejet it.

Sent from my SCH-S720C using Tapatalk 2

Having to use choke (enriching) circuit to keep it running would indicate a lean condition. Black/sooty plug means either rich or weak spark condition or probably both huh? So I would say, yes, it is lean but running with the enriching circuit throwing extra fuel in there is creating an over rich condition? I wouldn't spend too much time trying to figure it out if you plan to get back on the airbox. I vote you get the airbox back on it and go from there.

Without changing jetting, pod filters should cause it to run WAY lean. Resist the temptation to keep riding it like this. Get the airbox back on there first. Then if you're still having problems you can start nailing them down.

Put box back on and set to factory specs. Is your exhaust stock?

I am with 74u, you have an artificially induced rich condition by using the choke.
Wait until you have the airbox installed, test, then report your results.

I will get the air box back on asap. Yes my exhaust is stock. Id like to keep it that way but a battery leaked onto it and now it looks like crap.

Sent from my SCH-S720C using Tapatalk 2

Got the box installed still pops out number 1&2 carbs and those 2 cylinders are running way cooler than the other 2.

Sent from my SCH-S720C using Tapatalk 2

ChopFinger123 wrote: Got the box installed still pops out number 1&2 carbs and those 2 cylinders are running way cooler than the other 2.

Sent from my SCH-S720C using Tapatalk 2

Why don't you post the same reply on just one thread instead of multiple threads?


.

Because there was different people commenting on the different posts. Im trying to get all the help i can.

Sent from my SCH-S720C using Tapatalk 2

ChopFinger123 wrote: Got the box installed still pops out number 1&2 carbs and those 2 cylinders are running way cooler than the other 2....

Would suspect lack of combustion, perhaps due to insufficient cleanances on intake valves.

Good Fortune!

Did you set the mix screws at idle using fastest idle method? Try that. Maybe your bike has air screws, not sure, but the book should tell you how to adjust them, unless you have the screws they didn't want you to adjust? I'm not sure on your model but I think the later models had plugs over the screws to appease our overlords at the EPA.

You have a factory service manual correct? You need to just do the entire ADJUSTMENT-ENGINE section in the book. There are so many things it could be, just run thru that list and you will narrow it down.

You will almost certainty need to replace the carb holders if they are original. They will leak and cause popping at idle. You can check for leaks with a can of carb cleaner, spray around the base where the holders meet the head and see if idle changes, if so you found a leak.

Look at this thread....(not exact to your situation but close enough)

www.kzrider.com/forum/3-carburetor/59157...ff-idle?limitstart=0

....there is a list posted by Patton, along with some good info, and then he posted a pic about cleaning the pilot system in the carbs. On page two I posted a list from my manual of 'preliminary checks' to do before adjusting the carbs. I bet your manual has a similar list.

Keep at it and eventually you'll figure it out, you still have a lot of things to check.