For some strange reason my Honda Shadow 750 has been giving me a tough time with constant stalling, and I can’t seem to pin down the cause. It’s been a real headache, especially when I’m out on the road. Has anyone else faced this issue and found a way to fix it?
Response
I’ve had a similar stalling problem with my Shadow 750 too. It can be frustrating, but one thing that worked for me was giving the carburetor a good clean and also adusting the needles. It’s a bit of a process but definitely worth a shot. Plus, it’s not too heavy on the wallet.
Solutions that Worked for Users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Approx. Cost (USD) | Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carburetor Cleaning and Adjustment | 2 | $0 – $30 | 60 – 120 |
| Checking and Replacing the Kill Switch | 1 | $20 – $50 | 30 – 60 |
| Electrical Connection Check | 1 | $0 (if self-checked) | 15 – 30 |
| Fuel Tank Vent Check | 1 | $0 (if self-checked) | 10 – 20 |
Symptoms
- The bike stalls randomly, especially between gear shifts.
- It may die without sputtering and then start up again after stopping.
- The issue can occur intermittently, making it hard to diagnose.
Solutions that Worked
Carburetor Cleaning and Adjustment
- What I Did: Gave the carburetor a thorough cleaning and adjusted the needles for proper seating.
- Outcome: The bike’s performance improved, and the stalling issue was resolved.
- Personal Experience: The bike ran smoother, and throttle response was much better after this fix.
- Estimated Cost: $0 – $30 (DIY)
- Time Needed: 60 – 120 minutes
- Detailed Steps:
- Remove the Carburetor: Carefully detach the carburetor from the bike. Make sure to note the connections for easy reassembly.
- Disassemble: Gently disassemble the carburetor. Keep track of all parts.
- Clean Thoroughly: Use a carburetor cleaner to clean all parts, especially the needles and jets. Be meticulous to remove all dirt and grime.
- Inspect and Replace if Necessary: Check for any worn-out parts. Replace them if needed.
- Reassemble and Adjust: Put the carburetor back together. Adjust the needles as per the service manual specifications.
- Reinstall: Carefully reinstall the carburetor and reconnect all the parts.
- Test: Start the bike and test for any improvements in performance.
- Expert Tip: Use high-quality carburetor cleaner and consider using compressed air to blow out any clogged passages. Regular maintenance of the carburetor can prevent many issues.
Checking and Replacing the Kill Switch
- What I Did: Replaced the malfunctioning kill switch.
- Outcome: The bike started consistently without any stalling.
- Personal Experience: The replacement was straightforward and effectively resolved the stalling issue.
- Estimated Cost: $20 – $50
- Time Needed: 30 – 60 minutes
- Detailed Steps:
- Locate the Kill Switch: Find the kill switch, usually located on the handlebar.
- Remove the Old Switch: Carefully disconnect and remove the old kill switch.
- Install the New Switch: Connect the new kill switch following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Secure Connections: Ensure all connections are secure and properly insulated.
- Test: Start the bike to check if the issue is resolved.
- Expert Tip: Regularly inspect the kill switch for signs of wear or corrosion. A malfunctioning kill switch can cause unexpected shutdowns.
Electrical Connection Check
- What I Did: Inspected and secured all battery cables and ground connections.
- Outcome: Enhanced bike performance and reduced stalling.
- Personal Experience: Tightening loose connections improved the bike’s reliability.
- Estimated Cost: $0 (DIY)
- Time Needed: 15 – 30 minutes
- Detailed Steps:
- Inspect Connections: Check all electrical connections, especially those to the battery and ground.
- Clean and Tighten: Clean any corrosion and tighten loose connections.
- Check for Wear: Look for any signs of wear or damage in the cables.
- Test the Bike: Start the bike to see if there’s an improvement.
- Expert Tip: Use dielectric grease on connections to prevent corrosion. Regular checks can prevent electrical issues.
Fuel Tank Vent Check
- What I Did: Ensured the fuel tank vent tube was clear of blockages.
- Outcome: Improved fuel delivery and reduced stalling.
- Personal Experience: Clearing the vent tube noticeably improved fuel flow.
- Estimated Cost: $0 (DIY)
- Time Needed: 10 – 20 minutes
- Detailed Steps:
- Locate the Vent Tube: Find the fuel tank vent tube, usually running from the tank.
- Inspect for Blockages: Check the tube for any kinks or blockages.
- Clear the Tube: Use compressed air or a suitable tool to clear the tube.
- Reattach and Test: Reattach the tube and test the bike.
- Expert Tip: Regularly check the vent tube as part of your maintenance routine. A clogged vent can create a vacuum in the tank, hindering fuel flow.
Motorcycle Models Where This Worked:
- Honda Shadow 750 (Various Years)