Spluttering

[Gemz]

Hi, I need some help. I have an er500 97. It was a non runner when I bought it and managed to get it running. However, it was running on one cylinder, so I got it running on two but most of the time it wouldn't start at all, I also cleaned the carbs, new battery, new oil and filter, new relay/solonoid. Drained and cleaned inner tank as there was loads of crap in it. I took it for a spin when I thought it was running fine (2 cylinders) it was very sluggish then lost all power. So I bought it home, cleaned the carbs yet again and fiddled with it a bit more, now it's only running on one again and hardly any power in the throttle. I've only ridden it twice since I got it because of this problem and starting to feel like it was a waste of money. Please help anyone.
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Gemma king

[andy_uk]

What are the plugs like?
It will more than likely be the carbs. When you cleaned them, did you take the jets out and give them a good blast with carb cleaner (and compressed air if possible) ?

I'd also suggest checking the float heights (if you haven't already).
Mine were way out when I first got mine (it hadn't been ridden much before I got it and needed a damn good clean out etc).

What mileage is it? and is there any service history? (thinking valve clearances)
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Aprilia Classic 125, GS500E, ER5-A1, ER5-C4, ER6 & an XJ6 project frame...

[Gemz]

I put brand new plugs in it. Took jets out and air blasted them but didn't use carb cleaner. If I remember correctly the needle was a bit out. Not sure how to balance it though. Not sure on mileage and service history I can't remember. Will check when I can
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Gemma king

[andy_uk]

I'd definitely give some carb cleaner a try.
As for checking the float heights, do that before you clean the jets (see the attached PDF), then when you strip the carbs you can alter the float height if required.
There's no need to use the "special tool - fuel level gauge", I just winged it and used some clear pvc pipe & guesswork.
I also bought a carb service kit as one carb was seriously over-fuelling. Replaced the float needles & pilot jet, balanced the carbs and it has been fine ever since.
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Aprilia Classic 125, GS500E, ER5-A1, ER5-C4, ER6 & an XJ6 project frame...

[Gemz]

Ok I will try that and get back to you. Thank you very much
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Gemma king