Fuel problems????
 

I think my 2000 SV650 had bad gas. I say that because I could not get it to start and when I removed the fuel pump and drained the gallon or so that was in the tank it looked the color of tea (american that is without the ice cubes) Anyway, I need to know if there is anything else I need to do prior to adding new fuel to the tank. Any help would be appriciated. Paul

Drain the carb bowls, you'll need a screwdriver and something to catch the fuel in. If it still won't start you may have to strip and clean the carbs.

How much do I need to tear down to get to them?

Should be able to do it with just the tank lifted and airbox removed.

There are a couple of hex socket screws in between the carbs in the sides of the float bowls which you can just get a key into (a bit tricky, but can be done). Slacken them off a turn or so and the fuel drains out of the bottom of the bowl.

I wouldn't go any further at this stage, just add fresh fuel and add some carb or injector cleaner (more or less the same stuff) available from any auto accessory store. It'll help clear any varnish or gum which might have formed in the jets etc.

I was able to get to one of them. The other is going to be tough.

If I remember right I shortened a hex key slightly in order to get it in there a bit easier. :-k

I normally use a ball ended 5mm driver, the drain screws are rarely that tight, and if you're careful you can do it without taking the airbox off.

useful info. The only time I've done it was while I was doing other stuff and had the airbox off anyway. :idea: cheers.

I did as you said and varoom! MY SV IS ALIVE AGAIN!!! Many thanks! Paul in Texas