Warning: Petrol (gasoline) is extremely flammable, so take extra precautions when you work on any part of the fuel system. Don't smoke or allow open flames or bare light bulbs near the work area, and don't work in a garage where a natural gas-type appliance is present. If you spill any fuel on your skin, rinse it off immediately with soap and water. When you perform any kind of work on the fuel system, wear safety glasses and have a fire extinguisher suitable for a Class В type fire (flammable liquids) on hand.
Check
1. Check the tank, the fuel tap(s) and the fuel hoses for signs of leakage, deterioration or damage; in particular check that there is no leakage from the fuel hoses. Replace any hoses which are cracked or deteriorated with new ones. On XL models, similarly check the vacuum hose to the fuel tap.
2. If the fuel tap is leaking, tighten the mounting nut, bowl or any assembly screws according to your model and the source of the leak. Slacken all the screws a little first, then tighten them evenly and a little at a time to ensure the cover seats properly on the tap body. If leakage persists disassemble the tap (where possible), noting how the components fit (see Chapter 4).
3. Inspect and clean all components and rebuild the tap. On XL650V and XRV750 models, if leakage persists, replace the whole tap with a new one - individual components are not available. On XL600V models, if leakage persists, some components are available individually - consult your dealer.
4. If the carburettor gaskets are leaking, the carburettors should be disassembled and rebuilt using new gaskets and seals (see Chapter 4). On XL models, refer to Chapter 4 for checks on the operation of the vacuum diaphragm.
Filter cleaning
5. Cleaning or replacement of the fuel strainer and/or filter (XRV750 models only) is advised after a particularly high mileage has been covered. It is also necessary if fuel starvation is suspected, or if the filter looks clogged or dirty. Honda do not specify a replacement interval -fuel is so clean now that this may not always be necessary. Check the condition of the inside of your tank - if it is old and there is evidence of rust, remove, drain and clean the tank and tap (see Chapter 4), and fit a new filter afterwards.
14.5a. Remove the strainer from the tap...
14.5b ...and discard the O-ring
Fuel strainer - all models
4. A fuel strainer is fitted in the tank and is held in place by the fuel tap. Remove the fuel tap (see Chapter 4).
5. Remove the gauze strainer and discard the О-ring (see illustrations). Clean off all traces of dirt and fuel sediment. Check the gauze for holes. If any are found, a new strainer must be fitted.
6. Replace the О-ring with a new one. then fit the strainer onto the tap. Install the tap (see Chapter 4).
In-line fuel filter - XRV750 models
7. An in-line fuel filter is fitted in the hose from the fuel tap to the fuel pump. To replace the filter, raise the rear of the fuel tank, or remove it altogether for better access (see Chapter 4).
8. Release the clamp and detach the fuel hose from the tap (see illustration). Have a rag handy to soak up any residual fuel, then release the clamp securing the fuel inlet hose to the fuel pump and detach the hose (see illustration).
14.8a. Release the clamp (arrowed) and detach the hose from the tap
14.8b. Release the clamp (A) and detach the hose from the pump, then free the filter from its holder (B) and remove it
Release the filter from its holder and remove it along with the hoses, then disconnect the hoses, noting which fits where, and discard the filter.
9. Fit the hoses to the unions on the new filter and secure them with the clamps (the hose from the fuel tap goes on the plain end, and the hose to the pump goes on the lipped end). Install the new filter so that its arrow points in the direction of fuel flow (i.e. towards the pump). Fit the hose to the inlet union on the pump and secure it with the clamp. Fit the hose to the fuel tap and secure it with the clamp, then lower the tank (see Chapter 4).
10. Start the engine and check that there are no leaks.