free spree problems

[Free 86 nq50]

we have a 86 Honda spree nq50 and we have cleaned the carb like you guys describe in other tech questions, It will run now, only at full throttle and it will only start if you cover the air horn completely with your hand and it will start right up, so I donÔÇÖt think it is the reeds.
it is like it has a huge air leak but every thing is tight and no obvious leaks, the bike did sit for over a decade, any ideas you have would be very appreciated.

Thanks Tony

[Bear45-70]

Actually from it starting with you putting a full choke on it by plugging the intakes, it could well be the reeds. However I think your carb is still FUBAR and needs to to be cleaned again. Have you done a compression check?

[Free 86 nq50]

i really dont think the carb could get any cleaner it been done twice now, how do you know if the reeds are bad is there a easy way of checking. no we have not done a compression check. but i just did one and it was at 110psi is that two low and if it is. were is it saposed to be.

Thanks Tony

[Wheelman-111]

Greetings:

110 is less than spec, methinks, but it should run with that.

Reeds would account for both low-normal compression as well as your WOT-only running symptoms.

Checking he reeds' condition may require new reedblock gaskets unless you're both careful and lucky. Just examine the interface between the petals and the brown plastic block.

The block itself can be worn down and no longer flat. Careful not to strip those tiny screws when you remove the petals to check.

The later-model SB50 Elite E block can make for a meaningful upgrade.

[GoodDerf]

*Edit* Dang Wheelman you beat me to it.

[Free 86 nq50]

okay thanks well check the reeds out,they are behind the intake right.

Thanks tony.

[Bear45-70]

Honda manual say 113 PSI minimum for compression. The reed block is between the intake manifold and the block.

[Free 86 nq50]

ok so we pulled the reed out and they are siting flat and have good spring back, so at a 110psi it wont run or it will run poorly, so would new rings be in order,or could it still be the reeds.

[Free 86 nq50]

i also so forgot to say if you put your fingers in front of the carb and give it gas at the same time it will run but as soon as you move your fingers it will die not sure if this helps.

[hondaman]

Do you have the gasket between the carb and intake installed?

[Free 86 nq50]

yes it is installed

[Wheelman-111]

Greetings:

Pick up a new spark plug and install. You may get lucky. At 110 PSI it should be fine. Honda's spec of 113 is a note to Service Techs for replacement interval. Gauges vary at least 10%.

[Free 86 nq50]

ok well give it a try if it dosent work i will be back.

thanks Tony

[hondaman]

I see no mention has been made about your air filter. Do you have a good filter installed?

[Bear45-70]

ok so we pulled the reed out and they are siting flat and have good spring back, so at a 110psi it wont run or it will run poorly, so would new rings be in order,or could it still be the reeds.

If the compression drops below 70 to 80 PSI is when not starting and running becomes an issue. I still think you have a carb issue that you need to deal with. As hondsboy suggests, air filter is a requirement to have the engine start. But most beginners need 3 or 4 shots at cleaning the carb before they get it right.