1988 Elite E - Sluggish Performance

[Pietruck]

Hi,

I am attempting to bring a 1988 Elite E back to life that I acquired at a garage sale. I have done the following:

1. Cleaned gas tank.
2. Replaced fuel lines.
3. Replaced petcock - previous owner had installed a non vacuum version.
4. Removed and thoroughly cleaned carb.
5. Check spark plug.
6. Check air filter.

The scooter starts right up with the kick starter. It runs, but is very sluggish off the line and I can't get going more than 18MPH. I know these scooters only do 30, but I should be able to get better than 20 I would think. Once it achieves around 18 MPH, it just bogs down as if there is a governor or something. I welcome any suggestions and recommendations.

[swimmingfree]

clean the carb again ....i no you did a good job but even i some times need to do it again ...
make sure the pin on the slide is clip at the middle ...
swimmingfree

[Pietruck]

Hi swimmingfree,

OK, I will re-clean the carb and see if I get improvement.

Thanks for the quick reply!

Pietruck

[swimmingfree]

hay do you have the manual for that thing???
swimmingfree

[Pietruck]

Hi,

Yes, I was able to download a PDF copy of the manual which was very helpful.

Thanks,

Pietruck

[swimmingfree]

make sure you look at the pin to make sure its set wright chapter 4 page 8 its call a throttle valve installation
swimmingfree

[Pete M]

Remove your muffler and take a look at the exhaust port from the muffler side. If it os packed with carbon you found the problem. Do not use anything sharp to clear the carbon. I use a plastic shrimp devainer.........lol

[Dio89Elite]

Did it come with the stock airbox as well? the stock carbs are designed to work well with the stock airbox and will run horrible without them.

[Pietruck]

Hi,

Yes, it came with the stock airbox. I checked it and it is clean. Good suggestion on the exhaust. It seems the exhaust is flowing freely, but can't hurt to check it.

Thanks,

[Pietruck]

Hi,

OK, I re-cleaned the carb. It turns out the issue was not related to the carb. It is the drive belt and clutch weights (pads). The engine is running fantastic, but the lack of speed is do to the belt and clutch.

Any recommendations for these? I have seen a lot of postings regarding the belt, but nothing on the clutch weights. Are these parts available? Has anyone replaced?

As always, thanks! Getting closer to riding I hope.

[Wheelman-111]

Greetings:

PatTheSoundGuy knows as much as anyone here about alternative Spree/Elite "E" belts. I encourage you to read his recent thread or send him a PM. A good used clutch should be easy to get. Post a WTB ad in that section.