Reed cage vacuum leak

[MrChimpo]

I noticed today we're working on my 1985 Honda spree that there was a week at the reed cage where it meets up to the intake flange. I noticed it making a whistling sound and a bubbling when it sucks fuel. I've also noticed that the throttle stays on longer than it should be decelerating. It seems that there would be more air getting in because of this vacuum leak which could potentially cause a lean burn situation right? I have some RTV sealant style stuff that is supposedly gasoline resistant that I'm going to use. Does anybody have any advice?

[Wheelman-111]

Greetings:

Mr. Chimpo Axt-ed:

I have some RTV sealant style stuff that is supposedly gasoline resistant that I'm going to use. Does anybody have any advice?

Yes. Abandon that plan. Don't even think about it.

1. Buy the correct Gasket from Honda-san.
2. Take yours apart.
3. CLEAN up the mating surfaces very thoroughly, with a light "Ouija-Board" sanding on a flat surface if necessary. Be careful with the razor; don't gouge the surfaces.
4. Slather your new gasket with Hi-Temp grease, and
5. Bolt it back up correctly with a torque wrench.

A leak here can prove catastrophic to your engine. One has to wonder WHY it got leaky. Stripped threads, from some ham-fisted Previous Owner of course, would not surprise me.