Unstable idle

[bryan_damone]

440 invader running first time in about 5 years. Idle is unstable. Runs a couple mins at 3k then starts bouncy higher. Never above engagement. Likely an air leak, would you agree? Seals were done the last season it was used. But I guess they could be screwed by this point?. First plan is to go through carbs, inspect oring and boots closely for deterioration. Then if it's still acting funny. Do seals again. Make sense?

[Interceptor398]

Check the gas lines on the primer for air bubbles when it is running.

[bryan_damone]

Does the air get sucked in from the plunger itself or the tubing/connections?

[Interceptor398]

I have seen both ways.  I consider them a weak spot in the fuel system.

[bryan_damone]

Thanks for the tips. Some cracks in tubing at the Tee fitting. Tried plugging the primer ports on the carbs with another piece of tubing with a 10-24 machine screw in the end. Turns out that is a rather crappy seal. Took apart primer plunger, regreased o-ring. Re-seated the check ball, replaced 1/8 tubing and it seems to have fixed the surging idle. Took a rip down the street seems pretty good. Just happy to have it move for the first time in a long time. Probably will go through carbs soon just to be sure. It was stored dry, so it shouldn't be too bad.  Thanks again for the replies, glad this site is still here 10 years later.

[bryan_damone]

Puddle of 2 stoke oil under sled today. Dripping from belly pan. Fun times with the old machines.

[bryan_damone]

Oil was coming out of the oil vent hose. Its position was low below the level of the oil tank. I had just filled the oil a little too full and the vent became an overflow and partial siphon. Lesson put your vents at the correct elevation and don't overfill your tank.

[Interceptor398]

Simple problems are the best kind.

[Vader440]

Bryan, are you using the air box?

[bryan_damone]

Yes I am running the airbox.