Vintage Dirt Bike Q & A

Hi there-

I recently picked up a 76 250 MT for free that had been sitting for a few years. It is my first motorcycle and a project at that. I know nothing about anything mechanical and have jumped in with both feet and a manual. After a few weeks of work I am ready to ride. Unfortunately, when I put gas in the tank to fire it up for the first time, it leaked like a sieve. I believe I need a whole new petcock, as the gasket is obviously shot, the stem for the reserve tank is broken and the little filter that should be in there is not (in-line filter installed). Any info on where to find a petcock would be greatly appreciated as well as any other tips for a true novice. Incidentally, there was enough fuel in the line and in the carburator to fire it up. It only took four kicks and sounded and idled well. The bike is in good shape, with only 3000 miles and one owner. Thanks for the help, and I look forward to joining what seems to be quite an elite group.

Jon

Hi Jon,
Congrats on the MT250. I just pick up a 1974 MT250 for fix up. Mine is in pretty good shape. I wouldnt start, but I have it running now...sort of Anyway between the 2 or us we should be able to figure these bike out. Let me know if I can help with anything. This is my 3rd Honda restoration project, but my first Elsinor.
Keep in touch,
Andrew
PS check out the bike through the link below

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Newfie
1974 MT250
1974 MR50
1975 CB750F
http://spaces.msn.com/members/andrewmer ... photoalbum

Occasionally you can find petcock rebuild kits on eBay, but they cost an arm and a leg.

The local Ace Hardware to me sells neoprene sheets and O-rings. You may want to try making your own gaskets from those.

You can also bend the washer/spring to get a little more seating force.

Thanks for the tip ricortes.

Newfie- As for parts and what not, what I've got is what I've got. I can't help much in the advice column- my knowledge of these machines is sparse at best. I should be ready to roll once this problem is dealt with, however. I just need to get this hog on the road.