Running a little rich, carb adjustment?

[Tonyvdb]

So got my bike running after sitting all winter in the garage. Started up no problem after cranking over a few times it came to life
After running for about 15min the exhaust still smells a bit rich. I took it out for a spin and its running well but still seems a little on the rich side. Is there a simple adjustment I can make to lean out the carbs?

[Tonyvdb]

Anybody? Could it be that I need to replace the air filter, if so what filter should I use. I've read that they are hard to find.

[SgtSlag]

Sorry, Tony, I'm no fuel/carb expert. However... Check here for air filter information. Yes, a plugged/dirty air filter could cause it to run rich. Cheers!

[Tonyvdb]

Thanks, I found the Fram Extra Life III Air Filter #CA3915 at a local store and modified it to fit in the existing plastic holder of the old one. Will see how that helps although the old one was not to dirty but clearly been in there a long time as it was a yellow color.
I may change out the spark plugs next, recommendations on what is the best plug?

[voyager55]

Check the carb sync.
You can easily buy a OEM air filter at any dealer.

[doug of so fla]

First thing I would do, depending on when and how it was stored, is to drain the carbs and see if any crap in bowls, & see what color gas is, should almost be clear, amber or brown change gas or dump in some Techron or Seafoam, & run thru that tank & another one. Old rotton gas smells old & rotton!! If XII was stored properly then I would check other items and I would use Iridium Plugs, they last longer so you do not have to change them for more than 75,000mi.. cause they are kinda a pia to change. Quick check on plug wires and caps, (they get old and leak voltage) remove faux cover and run engine in very dark garage, at nite! lol and look for spark jumping around plugs and plug wires & caps

Air filter media can break down over time and cause you to lose about 10mpg, engine can't get enough air so it gets to much gas does'nt mix right & runs rich. Do all the above before you do a carb sync or you will just be wasting a sync.. good luck & let us know the out come!! .. Then:: ride safe!!!

[ghostler]

Also it wouldn't hurt to run Seafoam in the tank. I've done that a couple times and it cleared up my rough running. I thought I'd have to overhaul my carbs. Although it won't cure everything it is like tune-up in a can.

[Me Again]

Also it wouldn't hurt to run Seafoam in the tank. I've done that a couple times and it cleared up my rough running. I thought I'd have to overhaul my carbs. Although it won't cure everything it is like tune-up in a can.

I have to agree . If it was running fine last fall and now it is running poorly ,it is more likely the long winter blues and your favorite fuel system cleaner is in order.

[Tonyvdb]

Thanks guys,
Yup, sea foam is in the tank and was stored that way with premium gas. Oil change was done in August following the fine advice given here. I will ride it out for a couple months and see how she does with the new air filter in place.

[Mr Jensee]

Alcohol in the gas reduces it's longevity. I would suggest before you store the bike find some ethanol free gas, fill the tank and run it for a spell before storage. A gas freshener added before you start it after winter would help as well.

[vxiirider]

We can only purchase gas with alcohol in it here in Michigan. I just add the recommended amount of Sea Foam in the fall and forget it. Four of us went for a first of season ride today and the trike started and ran just super and for a 110 mile trip I averaged 40.25 MPG which is pretty good for this three wheeler.