SX/SXi/SXi Pro Rebuild my '96 SXi Carbs, just change the diaphragms, or wait? (Dual Mikuni SBN 38)

J

jondotcom

Location
Bay Area CA
My engine is completely stock except for being switched to premix only. I only ride the ski 3-4 times a year, but usually go out to sketchy locations where it needs to be reliable.

Being that the the ski is old, I'm wondering if the carbs could be a future reliability risk? The ski runs great overall but not silky smooth down low (0-1/4 throttle), so I'm thinking that diaphragms might be due.

What generally fails on these carbs? Can I typically re-use any of the gaskets, for example pull it apart and check the filters/jets and re-assemble it without leaking?

My local Kawi dealers can get the diaphragms for ~18.00 each but I can get the entire OEM mikuni kits for ~45.00 each. I just hate to burn 100 bucks if it's not needed.

Expert advice would be appreciated.
 
Magyar68

Magyar68

Really!!!
Location
Lewisville
For Me the Needle Valve is usually the First to go, so I replace the Diaphragm’s while I am at it. I have never been able to get away with reusing the gaskets after 2 years. You will generaly see the Leak if the Diaphragm has been breached, you pull the hood and there is a strong smell of gas, gas on the back of the maifold, so on. Hard starts and not so good at low speed might sugest the Needle Valve.. But I am by no means an expert...
 
J

jondotcom

Location
Bay Area CA
Magyar68 said:
For Me the Needle Valve is usually the First to go, so I replace the Diaphragm’s while I am at it. I have never been able to get away with reusing the gaskets after 2 years. You will generaly see the Leak if the Diaphragm has been breached, you pull the hood and there is a strong smell of gas, gas on the back of the maifold, so on. Hard starts and not so good at low speed might sugest the Needle Valve.. But I am by no means an expert...
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Thanks! I've ordered the diaphragms and will check the needles out while I'm in there.

I pulled the carbs and didn't find any major sign of a leak, and the diaphragms were in good shape considering they're original and ~15 years old.

Do you change out the base gaskets? They all seem perfect still, even though they seemed slightly wet between them. I wonder if fiber gaskets would seal better.
 
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