petcock screens

[rover47]

Hi all , I've got this XS1100 and need to get new screens for the petcocks. I have read the article about installing filters. What affect does no screens have on res.? I think I'll be running off the bottom of the tank and have no reserve. Any thoughts? Jim

[James L]

Hi Jim, welcome to the group!
You'll find tons of useful and entertaining info here.
I'm no expert, but I believe you're right about losing the reserve function when running without petcock screens.
I hope the replacement screens are available, not sure though.
If not, maybe you could put a short tube into the "run" port of the petcocks so it won't empty your tank. This is how the petcock works on my CB 750. Of course I'd make sure I'm filtering the gas with inlines down below...
Lots of us have played around with the fuel delivery on these bikes. I'm currently without reserve capability myself, having eliminated the vacuum control "octopus" without using a "T" fitting to tie both ports together on each side of the tank. It's no biggie for me, though, as long as the fuel low light works I can get gas before it's too late.
Where in upstate NY are you? My mom lives in Auburn, south of Syracuse. Beautiful area up there!

[rover47]

petcocks

Hi James, I live just north of Albany in Latham. I'm in the process of replacing the tank. I got a used one that had already been dipped and coated. The petcocks on the original tank are messed up with no screens. I had already installed filters .But once in a while it acts like I lose fuel on 1/2 the engine. I think there is rust in the old tank I'm taking off. I has a huge dent due to a fueling mishap in the gas station.(bike fell over) The pecocks I got with the "new" tank are messed up to. The dealer told me over the phone we don't lookup parts over the phone for a bike that old('78). Guess I won't give them my business. Installing tubes sounds like a good idea. Thanks , Jim

[Texas_Steve]

Keeping reserve

Jim,

If keeping the reserve is an issue, you can just cut the filters offwhere the mesh on the filter towers starts and install in-line filters. Keeps the petcock 'pickup holes' for lack of a better word pulling fuel at the same levels they were previously.
I didn't think of doing that myself, so I just watch my odometer and make sure I fill up before I push.

Steve Mc