Is there any reason other than a float level/stuck float for a TM36 to be puking fuel on my barn floor?

I checked the float level before installation and it was in spec (19 +/-2mm IIRC) but can't remember the exact measurement. It held fuel just fine for about a month and then just recently started leaving me puddles unless I turn the petcock off when not running. The carbs coming off anyway as I think I want to try the 15.0 pilot instead of the 17.5.

BTW, the bike starts even easier than stock and idles more cleanly as well. Haven't had a chance for a road-test though due to winter. I'll have to tune the pump in the spring unless there's a sudden turnaround of this so-called "global warming" we've been experiencing.

Good news - the skidoo's running just fine.....

 

Aside from a split fuel line (rubber, brass or otherwise) you're pretty much looking at the float to see if it's sticking or the needle and seat are damaged. The float itself can sometimes get holes as well which will drop the float in the bowl as it fills with fuel and allow more fuel in. If the carb has a little teat and drain screw on the bottom of the float bowl you can attach a short length of clear hose and check the fuel level in the carb and show up any over filling.

 

Thanks DA - should have mentioned it's coming from one of the vent hoses - not the fuel line.

I may check the level with a clear hose before removing the carb just to see where the actual fuel level is. IIRC you want it maybe 1 mm above the float bowl. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.

 

The general principle is the same for any carb but the exact measurements vary a little. Fuel running out of the vent hose really does sound like a float or needle & seat problem, but if it was only happening in hot weather then it could also be that the tank breather is blocked and the tank is pressurising and forcing fuel into the bowl. It's also possible for a bit of fluff from a cleaning rag to block jets and stick the float down (happened to me once, my own fault) so take care when you're in there.

 

I put a piece of 1/8" clear tubing on the bowl drain spigot this AM and turned the petcock on. The resting fuel level is way above the bowl flange. Right up to the rear vent hose in fact. That's why it's puking.

Apparently the float is inop so she's coming out today.

Also have a Stroker headpipe and a few other goodies to go on while I'm waiting for the superbowl.

 

dj, I just got back in from 3 days of riding out at our club's riding area. The TM36 was flawless. Sounds like you just have something holding the float open. Should be an easy fix once you're in there.

 

I'm a big believer in the clear inline fuel filters, our bikes use the 1/4" fuel line size. You know at a glance if you've got fuel too.
marc