Check out some similar questions!

lancelkraft · Feb 11, 2013, 02:14 PM

I recently purchased 1996 HD Fatboy FLSTF with the EVO 1340 engine. This bike had been stored for approximately 5 years. On the initial startup, after dropping old gas and replacing with new, the bike fired right up and sounded as it should but was dripping/leaking gas and oil from the air cleaner housing. Also was emitting white cloud of smoke from exhaust pipe. Please troubleshoot for me and thanks.

odinn7 · Feb 11, 2013, 02:28 PM

You have crap in the carb and now it needs to be rebuilt to clean it out. This happens when they sit for extended periods with fuel in them.

lancelkraft · Feb 11, 2013, 10:33 PM

Thank you odinn7. This being my 1st harley, I didn't think of that, but it makes plenty of sense. Im now going to research on line for some instruction on how to do the carb. Rebuild myself. Also going to ask if its recommended to have tank cleaned and fuel lines replaced. Do you have an opinion there?

odinn7 · Feb 11, 2013, 10:40 PM

As much as I like to make jokes about Harleys to my HD friends, the problem you are experiencing can and does happen to all bikes if they are left sitting with gas in them. The gas goes bad and gels up in the carb and leaves deposits that get in the needles and jets.

To be honest, it's not an impossible job but if you aren't much good with mechanical work, you are better off paying to have it done. Just be warned... I don't know your level of experience but you may want to think about it and consider if it's worth trying.

I know some people like to clean the tank and all but I would just take it off and dump it out then inspect the inside. If there is no flaking or rust, I wouldn't go any further with it.