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89 Honda Elite LX fuel leak

Posted: Fri Feb 28, 2020 12:15 pm
by oldengineangler
My scooter leaks gas only when sitting. I checked out the carb and saw intermittent dripping from the downward facing short pipe under the by starter. I tested the auto fuel valve and it doesn't seem to work. Fuel just pours out of the fuel line when it's disconnected from the carb with the engine off. Would this explain the leak or there something else wrong?

Re: 89 Honda Elite LX fuel leak

Posted: Fri Feb 28, 2020 1:52 pm
by motormike
That explains why it is leaking, partially.
The fuel petcock is definitely broken.
Replace it.
In conjunction, the float needle ALSO is suspect.
Even when the the petcock flows without engine running,
the float needle SHOULD stop that flow.

Re: 89 Honda Elite LX fuel leak

Posted: Fri Feb 28, 2020 3:09 pm
by harleyracer59
motormike wrote: Fri Feb 28, 2020 1:52 pm That explains why it is leaking, partially.
The fuel petcock is definitely broken.
Replace it.
In conjunction, the float needle ALSO is suspect.
Even when the the petcock flows without engine running,
the float needle SHOULD stop that flow.
I agree with Mike 1000% you have 2 issues petcock stuck open and a leaky float needle/seat.

Re: 89 Honda Elite LX fuel leak

Posted: Fri Feb 28, 2020 8:15 pm
by Wheelman-111
Greetings:

I would add that both problems are facilitated by debris in the fuel, preventing both the petcock and the float needle valves from seating. Check the tank for rust and address or replace. I have an SA50 tank to spare if you decide on the latter.

Re: 89 Honda Elite LX fuel leak

Posted: Sat Feb 29, 2020 10:28 am
by motormike
Wheelman presents a likely scenario.

Re: 89 Honda Elite LX fuel leak

Posted: Tue Mar 03, 2020 4:57 pm
by oldengineangler
I already took the carb apart and cleaned it. It didn't look bad, very little if any debris in the bowl. It passed the "blow in the inlet" test after I put the needle and float back in. But I'll keep that in mind if it keeps leaking after I replace the tank valve. Thanks everyone.