Adjusting idle

[casticus]

My 04 RT as I fired it up after winter hibernation now seems to have its idle set too low (under 1,000 maybe 950) and when cold won't stay running, backfires a little if rolled off all the way and then roll throttle back on. Any thoughts?

[dan cata]

My 04 RT as I fired it up after winter hibernation now seems to have its idle set too low (under 1,000 maybe 950) and when cold won't stay running, backfires a little if rolled off all the way and then roll throttle back on. Any thoughts?

 

Hi,

 

I would do a valve adjustment if needed, then a idle sync followed by and 2500 rpm sync.

 

When performing the idle sync, first take off the 2 BBS out, clean them using a rag and then screw them all the way in, take them back 2 turns and adjust/sync as needed Idle speed should be 1100 +/- 50 RPM.

 

Dan.

[dirtrider]

Morning David

 

Well, if it idled OK before winter storage but doesn’t now I doubt any of the base mechanicals have changed.

 

SO, that leaves the possibility of oil/or/fuel fouled lower spark plugs or the possibility of phases-separated gasoline.

 

I guess I would start by removing and inspecting the lower spark plugs, if they look OK and not all oily then possibly a gasoline issue. Maybe ride it a while unless the engine runs so bad you feel you can’t.

 

Otherwise look for mouse damage to sensor wires or a plugged air cleaner from small animal nest building.

 

[casticus]

Thanks for the info, I drained the tank and put "fresh" fuel in and it went from not running at idle at all to running at idle when warmed up. I gotta check the air box and spark plugs still. Good advice, thanks.

[ianboydsnr]

you may want to check that the main coil caps are working correctly, as low idle is a symptom of a failed coil!