Honda 450es Won't Stay Running

[k46tank]

My 450ES won't stay running. It had been sitting for several months, so I drained the tank and carb bowl, filled up with fresh gas, replaced the spark plug and checked the air cleaner which is clean. Now when I start it, it will run with the choke pulled all the way out (and has relatively good throttle response), but if the choke vibrates in, even a little, it dies. I have let it idle for about 15-20 minutes to warm up but that does not help. I have tried adjusting the idle speed screw (the one with the plastic knob on it) and can get it to idle up, but it still will not run if the choke is pushed in. I did manage to get it to stay running by reving it up, then pushing in the choke, but it runs very rough (missing and popping) and will not stay running if I release the throttle. The air temp is around 40 degrees here and I am not at high altitude. The machine is stock and has relative low hours on it.

Any help will be greatly appreciated.

[rpyfz450]

Originally posted by k46tank@Jan 16 2005, 05:40 PM
My 450ES won't stay running. It had been sitting for several months<div align='right'><{POST_SNAPBACK}>

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This is a common problem with Hondas and just about every other small gasoline engine.

Sounds like your old gasoline varnished the carburetor and one or more of the carb's fuel circuits. Sounds like you're going to need a thorough carburetor cleaning or else your machine may never run right again. You can try and run "Sta-Bil" through the carb and see if that solves the problem or else disassemble the carb and clean it, or buy a new carburetor.

[k46tank]

I pulled the carb out and took the bowl off. I was expecting to find a layer of varnish, but it looked pretty good. I'll pull it again and see if I missed anything. I don't think a new carb is called for yet. Now after I tear it appart, thats another story. Thanks.

[k46tank]

Sure enough, the pilot jet was gummed up. I gave everything a good cleaning and it is running great now. :smiliethumbup: