Petcock Replacement

1980xsRider · Posted: September 6, 2009, 9:39 am Post subject: Petcock Replacement

So, it appears I have defeated the initial electrical issues, and now it is time to focus on a petcock where the vacuum no longer works. Has anybody replaced theirs using the non-vacuum type from Mikesxs? If so how difficult is it? I am putting onto a 1980 650SG.

2-Skinny · Posted: September 6, 2009, 9:57 am Post subject: Re: Petcock Replacement

Drain fuel from tank. Unscrew old one. Install new one. That's it! Don't even have to take the tank off, just drain fuel out of other petcock or both...

1980xsRider · Posted: September 6, 2009, 10:05 am Post subject: Re: Petcock Replacement

Do you recommend changing the fuel lines and all gaskets and washers at the same time?

gordo · Posted: September 6, 2009, 1:29 pm Post subject: Re: Petcock Replacement

Rider, not a bad job to do. I have the Mike's replacement petcock without the vacuum port, because mine leaked, was full of crap, and, most important, when I'm close to needing more fuel, I like knowing that I have a reserve if needed.
Yes, change the fuel line's for sure. Recommend using clear line's with a filter. You can get clear line @ Advance auto parts, in the lawn mower section. Cheap,too. Filter's are there also.

ejdirin · Posted: September 19, 2009, 8:12 pm Post subject: Re: Petcock Replacement

I ended up using a non-vacuum petcock on my 650 chopper. I used the following link for advice...

www.650motorcycles.com/Petcock.html

Worked great and looks nice. Costs less then $40 total. Only problem is the 2 parts you need aren't available at the same place, so you have to pay for shipping twice.

The only thing I didn't do was use the rat tail file. Instead I used a multistep drill bit while the tank was facing up, so most filings would fall. The rest I got out of the tank with a telescoping magnet. I like the drill bit better because its more precise and leaves less room for error/leaking.

Good luck!

ejdirin · Posted: September 19, 2009, 8:13 pm Post subject: Re: Petcock Replacement

I ended up using a non-vacuum petcock on my 650 chopper. I used the following link for advice...

www.650motorcycles.com/Petcock.html

Worked great and looks nice. Costs less then $40 total. Only problem is the 2 parts you need aren't available at the same place, so you have to pay for shipping twice.

The only thing I didn't do was use the rat tail file. Instead I used a multistep drill bit while the tank was facing up, so most filings would fall. The rest I got out of the tank with a telescoping magnet. I like the drill bit better because its more precise and leaves less room for error/leaking.

Good luck!

pumps · Posted: September 20, 2009, 7:42 am Post subject: Re: Petcock Replacement

I got some right angle inlet/outlet fuel filters that seemed to make routing the fuel lines a bit easier. I think 650 central has them too. Don't forget you need to cap the vacuum nipple that used to hook to the petcock.

xsleo · Posted: September 20, 2009, 9:28 pm Post subject: Re: Petcock Replacement

Hook both of the nipples on the carb holders together with a hose, helps balance the carbs.

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