I have an 84 Honda Shadow VT700C. It runs fine when I first start out, but from my observation, after the temprature gets in the red it starts to sputter to the point where it finally stalls. This has happened twice to me so far this year. What do you think this problem may be and how much do you think it would cost to fix it? I would appriciate any answers you may give.
2007-07-16 13:29:28 · 4 answers · asked by Michael P 2 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Motorcycles
If the motor is water cooled and the temperature gauge is in the "red" the motor is overheating. The gasoline will then vaporize as it passes into the carburetor which will mess up the gas/air mixture and the engine will die.
Assuming the coolant level is proper, you should check the thermostat to be certain it is opening up. Remove the thermostat and put it in a pan of water. If you have a meat thermometer (they show temperatures of around 150 to 200 degrees Farenhiet) dip the thermometer in the water. Heat the water and, before the water boils, the thermostat should be open. Depending on the motors specs, the thermostat should open around 160 to 180 degrees.
2007-07-16 13:45:33 · answer #1 · answered by academicjoq 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
If the temp is going into the RED your overheating. THATS your problem. Start with replacing the thermostat and coolant and check to make sure the electric fan works. When it goes into the red do you hear or see the fan kick in?
With a bike that age I would just replace the thermostat anyway as a routine item. By the time you take it out and test it and all you can just pop a new one in. The same goes for the coolant. You should replace that every two years on that bike.
2007-07-16 13:47:06 · answer #2 · answered by pappy 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Check for spark immediately when the bike stops running.
Worn out coils stop working when they get hot and mysteriously start working when they cool down.
Keep a good spark plug handy while you're riding.
When the bike stops running, check for spark at all 4 spark plugs.
Remove a spark plug cap.
Insert the good plug and rest the threads of the plug against the engine.
Key on, kill switch in run position, push the start button.
No spark somewhere - have that coil checked.
2007-07-16 13:58:29 · answer #3 · answered by guardrailjim 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If it is in fact water cooled, I might suggest having the radiator flushed.
2007-07-16 15:28:46 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋