I have a 1981 550 maxim. It has been sitting for some time. I'm pretty confident that the carbs, from sitting, have gotten a little gummed up. I took them apart, cleaned them and have been able to get it started. But it won't idle. You have to nurse the throttle and it very erratic. some times you can keep it going for ten minutes. Sometimes it will quit as soon as the ether wears out. It needs about 3/4 throttle to stay running and at times it will rev up on it's own. Fuel seems to flow freely. I think I have a vacumn problem., but any, ANY, advice would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance,

Marc Smith

Cleveland ,Ohio

Fuel starvation could be causing this as well as any air leaks from the carb mountings. Sticking float or wrongly adjusted needle or jets. Air leaks from the throttle butterfly spindle or slide will also cause weak running.

Thanks, for the reponse. I'm new and it's good to know someone out there is listening. I think I'm going to take her apart again (Gently) And start with "A" and then see if I get a better result before the snow flies.

Definitely sounds like a vacuum leak somewhere....

Make sure to also check for cracks or tears in the rubber manifolds between the carbs & the cylinderhead.

Used to ride a 550 Seca for about 13 years......pretty familiar with those carbs.

PM me if ya need any assistance.

BTW.... to the forum Marc