[joemc]

My 2004 Honda Rancher 350 has had issues with a gritty slime developing in the float chamber. This eventually plugs the jets thus stops running. I have tried alcohol free fuel, Sea Foam and Sta-Bil. I even added an inline fuel filter, did not help. The bike does sit up most of year and only used during hunting season. Has very few hours.
Any help/suggestions much appreciated.

GOD BLESS
Joe

 

[Goober]

Thanks Joe
You’re probably not running it enough.
That slime is fouled fuel; i would completely drain the tank and inspect the inside to see if the same gunk was in the tank.

You can remove and clean the plastic tank with warm very soapy (Dawn) water. And a long handled bottle brush.
same with petcock—use pipe cleaners or dental brushes.

run the engine at least twice a month; this will also help to use up the older fuel. Try running it off the reserve setting or drive it around to keep the condensation out of the tank.

other than that you can empty the tank and run the carb dry, then fog the engine. Lotta effort there, but sitting idle is hard on equipment

 

[joemc]

Thanks Joe
You’re probably not running it enough.
That slime is fouled fuel; i would completely drain the tank and inspect the inside to see if the same gunk was in the tank.

You can remove and clean the plastic tank with warm very soapy (Dawn) water. And a long handled bottle brush.
same with petcock—use pipe cleaners or dental brushes.

run the engine at least twice a month; this will also help to use up the older fuel. Try running it off the reserve setting or drive it around to keep the condensation out of the tank.

other than that you can empty the tank and run the carb dry, then fog the engine. Lotta effort there, but sitting idle is hard on equipment

Goober,
Thanks for response. I have removed tank and cleaned but found no slime in the tank at the time, only in float bowl. I agree I should run it more often and will endeavor to do so - old and lazy aint cutting it. The statement about OLD fuel hits home as I never actually thought it mattered if additives were added. I think that may be a major issue also. Appreciate your great suggestions Goober.
GOD BLESS
Joe