I need to know why my 2007 Honda Shadow Spirit 750 motorcycle only seems to run when the choke is on. The moment I turn it off, the engine just dies. Can someone here tell me how to fix it?
Response
I found that a thorough carburetor cleaning and also adjustung the idle screw fixed this for me.
Solutions that worked for users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Personal Experience | Estimated Cost (USD) | Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean the Carburetor | 3 | Cleaned the carb and the issue was resolved | $0-$50 | 30-60 |
| Adjust the Idle Screw | 2 | Adjusted the idle screw and it worked | $0 | 5-10 |
| Check for Vacuum Leaks | 2 | Checked for leaks and sealed them | $0-$20 | 10-20 |
| Check the Battery and Electrical System | 1 | Checked battery and electrical components | $0-$100 | 20-40 |
| Use Berryman B12 Fuel System Cleaner | 1 | Used Berryman B12 and it worked | $5-$10 | 5-10 |
Symptoms
- Motorcycle only runs when the choke is on
- Engine dies when the choke is turned off
- Poor throttle response
- Unstable RPMs
Possible Causes
- Dirty or clogged carburetor
- Incorrect idle screw setting
- Vacuum leaks
- Electrical issues
- Fuel quality
Solutions that Worked
1. Clean the Carburetor
What I Did: Took apart the carburetor and cleaned every nook and cranny, including the jets and float bowl.
Outcome: The bike ran smoothly without needing the choke.
Personal Experience: After a thorough cleaning, my bike’s performance improved significantly.
Estimated Cost: $0-$50
Time Needed: 30-60 minutes
Steps:
- Turn off the motorcycle and locate the carburetor.
- Disconnect the fuel line and remove the carburetor from the bike.
- Disassemble the carburetor, taking care to keep track of all parts.
- Remove all jets, needles, and the float bowl.
- Soak the components in a carb cleaner bath for at least 30 minutes.
- Use compressed air to blow out any remaining debris.
- Reassemble the carburetor, ensuring all parts are securely tightened.
- Reinstall the carburetor and reconnect the fuel line.
- Start the bike to test if the issue is resolved.
Expert Tip: Always use gloves and work in a well-ventilated area when handling carb cleaner. Also, consider using a carb cleaner bath for a more thorough cleaning.
2. Adjust the Idle Screw
What I Did: Fine-tuned the idle screw for optimal idling and throttle response.
Outcome: The bike ran perfectly without the choke.
Personal Experience: A minor adjustment made a world of difference.
Estimated Cost: $0
Time Needed: 5-10 minutes
Steps:
- Start the motorcycle and let it warm up for a few minutes.
- Locate the idle screw on the carburetor.
- Use a flat-head screwdriver to turn the screw clockwise to increase idle speed or counterclockwise to decrease it.
- Test the throttle response and adjust as needed.
- Turn off the bike and restart it to ensure the new setting holds.
Expert Tip: Always make idle adjustments on a warm engine for accurate results. Also, make small incremental changes and test each time.
3. Check for Vacuum Leaks
What I Did: Conducted a thorough inspection for vacuum leaks around the carburetor and intake manifold.
Outcome: Found and sealed a small leak, resolving the issue.
Personal Experience: A quick check revealed a small leak that was causing the problem.
Estimated Cost: $0-$20
Time Needed: 10-20 minutes
Steps:
- Start the bike and let it idle.
- Spray carb cleaner or a similar solvent around the carburetor and intake manifold.
- Listen for changes in engine RPM, which indicate a leak.
- If a leak is found, turn off the bike.
- Use a sealant or replace the leaking part.
- Restart the bike to test if the issue is resolved.
Expert Tip: A smoke test can be a quick and effective way to identify any vacuum leaks. Also, always replace any cracked or damaged hoses.
Extra tips
- Fuel Quality: Poor fuel quality can also cause your bike to run only with the choke on. Always use high-quality fuel.
- Spark Plugs: Sometimes, a faulty spark plug can mimic carburetor issues. It’s a good idea to check and replace them if needed.
- Seasonal Changes: The air-fuel mixture can be affected by seasonal temperature changes. You might need to adjust the carburetor settings accordingly.
Motorcycle Models Where This Worked
- 2009 Honda Rebel 250
- 1988 Honda Shadow 600
- 2007 Honda Shadow Spirit 750