How to Refurbish Carb Brackets

[mjheffernan]

I'm a new guy to this forum, just posted an introduction in the New Members forum, I think my first question belongs here. I'm cleaning my carbs for the second time. The first time through was a vast improvement, but still didn't idle or accelerate off idle as well as it should. I didn't split the bank or tap and remove the idle jets the first time, and I think that may be where the problem is. There was lots of rust in the tank (and carbs) when I bought the bike, probably some still lurking in the idle circuit. Have read all the threads on removing the jets, ultrasonic cleaning, etc. One little cosmetic thing I haven't seen discussed is the steel brackets that hold the carb banks together. I think they are zinc plated steel? Mine have some rust and discoloration left after running through the ultrasonic cleaner a few times. Anyone have a good technique for freshening them up? If I sand them lightly to remove the rust, will I wear through the plating and just cause them to rust more quickly?
Thanks,
Mike

[spencer]

First, remove the clear finish and then buff them with a buffing wheel and a compound that is not too aggressive. I had a set that looked very bad, and after buffing them, they are almost like they are chrome plated.

[Kool_Biker]

First, remove the clear finish and then buff them with a buffing wheel and a compound that is not too aggressive. I had a set that looked very bad, and after buffing them, they are almost like they are chrome plated.

... and then I would certainly have them zink plated for longevity. Easy and cheap, indeed at the same time you could have a batch of other parts done up as well ...

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Aris

[daves79x]

Aris:
That is what I was going to suggest also, with the exception of the chole plate rods. You apparently got away with it, but adding thickness by plating to those is not a good idea. They are a pretty snug fit as they are. They are also a different finish than the zinc plated steel parts.

Dave

[mjheffernan]

Thanks for the replies guys. Aris, that is a nice looking pile of parts. I was actually reading your thread on tapping the idle jets this past weekend. Have a workbench covered in carburetor parts right now, slowly making their way through my new ultrasonic cleaner. My jets were not as bad as yours, only one is actually blocked, and it could be shavings from tapping it.

[Kool_Biker]

Aris:
That is what I was going to suggest also, with the exception of the chole plate rods. You apparently got away with it, but adding thickness by plating to those is not a good idea. They are a pretty snug fit as they are. They are also a different finish than the zinc plated steel parts.

Dave

Good points Dave, was not aware, this whole project has been a learning experience and yes, seems I got away with it!

BTW, here's a slideshow of my entire carburettor saga: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTcHmS3OS_w

Aris