fuel in surge or catch tank

[ithitwhat]

I have a 1996 XII and recently it has started backfiring on decelaration and I am getting gas mixed with a small amount of water in the catch tank. I recently changed to larger pilot jets (hoping this would help eliminate clogging they seem to constantly need cleaning). What I need to know is the reason for the gas getting into the catch tank. Are the carbs spitting back when I hear the chuff sound or is this a backfire through the pipes? What is the remedy. Could there be a vaccum leak, would this cause gas in the catch tank. I have noticed that the engine is slow to return to idle. Does removing the the smog switch and plugging the lines on top of the head effect the running. Would this help? I know I'm asking alot, but this catch tank gas is bothering me. Thanks for any help.

[Bill O]

Gas in your catch tank can only come from two places (to my knowledge). From gas getting back into the lower air box, or from gas from the overflow pipes in the carbs through the bowl drain hoses. Cant say if the Calif vs non-Calif models makes much difference, but that is what I recall for the drainage hoses to the catch tank.

I have to step back....... I believe you must have a Calif model, since I don't believe the non-Calif models even had a catch tank! The final collection hose just opened drained onto the roadway.

Usually excessive gas into the catch tank is a result of stuck/defective float valves or mis-adjusted float levels. Easy to remedy......after the carbs are removed from the bike!!!!!!

It would also not be totally unheard of having the fuel pump providing too much pressure or contact points not shutting off with pressure. (Rare, but not unheard of!)

Bill O

[ithitwhat]

Thanks for reply, My bike is not a California, the over flow tubes go to ground behind center stand. I guess the float bowls need to be reset. I'm getting way to good at removing carbs, this will be the fifth time! Oh' well! Thanks again for reply.

[davidl]

Or bad float needles; ethenol gas is killin carbs in Voyagers. Call Carl. I got very good at taking the carbs off too.

davidl