Diaphragm Assembly (Octopus) needed 1979 xs1100SF

[equinox1216]

Going through the troubleshooting process for high idle, inconsistent, backfiring after recent work on the carbs.
I was told it would likely be the "octopus" which needs to be replaced.
(I'm thinking it is more likely just one of many possible problems)
If anyone has one I could sure use it.
I'm not having a lot of luck finding one.
Well, actually I am, it's just all BAD luck.

[tom clisham]

octy

I can send you one for $10.00
Pm me with your shipping adress . I take paypal.
You might need to replace the seal inside. This could also be your problem with the one you have now.

[DAVINCI]

high idle, inconsistent, backfiring after recent work on the carbs.

Whoever told you that doesn't know WTF he's talking about. Symptoms sound normal to me...until you do a proper synch, that is. Unless you've got a bunch of vacuum leaks, open lines, etc. where the octopus WAS, there is no way that the lack of octopus would cause those symptoms. Most guys ditch the octopus anyway.

Do a proper synching of the carbs, that will settle her down.

[natemoen]

I would tend to agree with davinci. All the octy is, is a vacuum operated on off valve.

[DGXSER]

Ok, the only way I see it as possible, is if the Octy is only partly opening (which I doubt) or intermitently opening, causing your bowls to only partly fill with fuel, causing a very lean condition.

But seriously, this is the last place I would be looking, and if you do not have one in the system now, then by all means RUN from that mechanic, do not walk, RUN!!!! The lack of that valve will do no harm except if you leave your petcocks on, and the float valves in your carbs are not properly sealing. Even then, it will cause you to find a puddle of fuel by your bike.

If you already have one in line, the diaphram inside may need to be replaced. The easier way to diagnose if it is the problem would be to turn your petcocks to prime. If the problem clears up, you know it probable is the source, could still be a kinked fuel line in the managerie of lines to and from the Octy. If the problem persist, then it is not the Octy. Which as the others, I very highly doubt this is your problem.