fuel leak

[Rodney]

I am on a 3,500K trip. This AM when I started the bike it was pouring excess fuel out the rubber drain line that connects to the 4 carb bowls. My question is do I have a float valve leaking, a fuel pump over pressure issue or a partially blocked fuel return line? it is OK now, but I have experience a raw fuel smell at times when driving but have never found a leak before.

[ekap1200]

Get a 3mm allen key socket . open the screw valve at each carb about 3 turns , drain into a small jar or can. Do one at a time starting the bike up each draining of the carb bowl. See if that will clear it out. Don't over-tighten the screws. At least you will have the crud out of the bowls, then go from there. Maybe you picked up some crappy fuel along the way.
Where are you and has it stranded you from continuing the trip..? It the bike running any different ?
Once had a member drive all the way out to PA from NY state with one of the carb / bowl / drain screws missing.
Maybe your near another member that may be able to help.
Gene K.

[Rodney]

Gene;
It seems to be an intermittent problem. The bike is running great again. We are leaving Quebec City Monday AM and will get home
tomorrow in about 6 hours.

[voyager55]

Run some Sea foam thru it. 1 ounce per gallon.

[Mr Jensee]

I'm with Gene Knapp on this one. I think you have a float that is sticking and won't close the little valve. It would have to be stuck down to do this. In other words not floating.

[ekap1200]

I'm with Gene Knapp on this one. I think you have a float that is sticking and won't close the little valve. It would have to be stuck down to do this. In other words not floating.

Or some nasty crap getting stuck in the valve seat, Or are the drain valve screws just not tight ? In either case, to start with you have to know if you have clean fuel.
open them up and see what comes out. ie rust/bits of rubber / whatever...... Sea Foam is a great product, but it has its limits... How did you do going home today ? How many miles on the machine ? How often has the fuel filter been changed out ? Are you the only one who works on the bike ?
Gene Kap.

[Rodney]

I just arrived home today. The bike is a 2001. It has only 35,000K on it. I have put 15,000K on it since June 2015. As I think back this is an intermittent problem. I will open the drains and check the fuel. Last time I did this I found only clean fuel come out. I used several cans of SeaFoam last summer to help clean up the fuel system.

[ekap1200]

Glad to hear you and the bike made it home.

[davidl]

Had this same problem. Did all the things mentioned. Ended up sending my carbs to Carl Leo, twice. Had to do with oval seats from the factory. That was 20K miles ago & all is good. Carl Leo is the best....

[Roadrash]

Thanks fixed my problem leak wish it was all this easy

[Rodney]

Final update
I drove my bike to an experienced mechanic. He replaced the needles and seats and balanced the carbs. No more leaks on the road or gas fumes in the garage. We are in AZ for the winter and it is running great.