How to Repair a Two-Stroke Reed Valve
Repairing a reed valve on a two-stroke motorcycle engine typically involves getting access to the unit. This will require you to remove the carburetor and the reed valve assembly from the engine. The process is fairly straightforward and can be performed with basic automotive tools. If done correctly, you should be able to finish the job in about an hour.
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Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver
- Socket wrench and sockets
- Crescent wrench
- Carb cleaner
- Shop rag
- Gasket (optional)
- Nuts and washers
Instructions
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1
Turn off the fuel valve from the motorcycle's gas tank. Locate the carburetor. Use a screwdriver to loosen the banjo clamp holding the carburetor to the intake hose attached to the reed valve assembly. Use a socket wrench or crescent wrench to loosen and remove the nuts if the carburetor is bolted directly to the reed valve assembly.
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2
Remove the carburetor and set it aside. Use the screwdriver to loosen the base of the intake manifold hose and its lower banjo clamp from the reed valve assembly, if this applies to your engine. Remove the intake hose and set it aside.
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3
Loosen and remove the reed valve assembly securing nuts. Pull the assembly off the engine studs when loose. Pull apart the assembly to expose the reed valve petals inside. Examine the petals for damage or bending. Use a shop rag to wipe the engine mating surface clean. Remove any gasket material that exists and throw it away.
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4
Place a new gasket if necessary between the engine unit and where the reed valve assembly will bolt. Remove the old reed valve petals after unscrewing them with a screwdriver. Wash the assembly down with a solvent such as a carb cleaner. Insert new reed valve petals into the assembly and tighten them into place. Reinsert the rebuilt assembly onto the engine. Tighten it with a socket wrench and new nuts and washers.
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5
Reinsert the intake manifold hose if it applies and tighten to the reed valve assembly with a screwdriver and the lower banjo clamp. Insert the carburetor into the other end of the hose and tighten it with the upper banjo clamp. Bolt the carburetor to the reed valve assembly directly if no hose is required, and tighten it with a socket wrench.
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6
Turn on the fuel valve and start the engine. Test the engine while in park and activating the throttle. Take the motorcycle for a ride.
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Tips & Warnings
You can quickly see if a reed valve needs repair just by looking inside the intake entry once the carburetor is removed and the intake opening to the reed valve is exposed.
Do not have any flammable sources nearby when working with a fuel-delivery system. Gasoline fumes can travel away from their hose lines and ignite easily.
