coating intake boots

[garyrc]

does using rtv sealent on the intake boots really help? and if so how much do you put on and is there a trick. also will the clear rtv sealent work.

[Pat Kelly]

RTV works.
Most cracks are cosmetic and the boots aren't leaking air.
Test by spraying carb cleaner or WD40 on the boots with the bike running. Spray all around the boots on all the cracks. If the idle dosen't change then the boots are ok.
To coat them and have them look nice use spray-on 'Plastic Coat' usually used to coat the handles of tools. Plastic dip is available too, just brush on.
I bought new boots for my E and in 2 years they were as cracked as the 25 year old boots. None leaked.

[fxrer]

You can do a search on intake boots, as there are several threads on this subject. Some members recommend something called Dip It (I think), a sort of paint on synthetic plastic. Claims it dresses up the boots nicely.

But, as there is a metal "liner" inside the boots, you don't really need it except for cosmetics.

[garyrc]

thanks pat.
i did do the wd40 test at work during lunch and i noticed no change in idle. but my boots do looked badly cracked. when the bike is running i notice that the boots a pulsing almost as if the are alive and breathing is this normal?

[DiverRay]

The pulsing is normal. almost all bikes do it, most people just don't see it. The black RTV (silicone gaskit material) will make them look almost new again.

[garyrc]

thanks,
DiverRay