KDXRIDER.NET

Ok, I've only had my '85 KDX 200 for a couple of weeks, but this bike very slowly drips fuel from one of the little hoses that comes down out of the carb. Is this normal? When I bring the bike upright (from the kickstand), it leaks a littlle more as well - normal?

Sounds like the needle and seat are letting fuel by. Take it apart and check them for crud and clean them. Then set the float which may be way off allowing the bowl to fill past the overflow outlet.

Check your float level also. But, this drip is better than the Fire when I Pee drip

Ok, so this sounds like I need to pull apart the carb. Which scares me. Is this something I want to tackle by myself (with my trusty Clymer manual), or should I enlist the help of someone more mechanically inclined? Also, when I do so, what supplies am I going to need (other than tools and cleaner)? Will I need some new gaskets and gasket sealer?

It's a piece of piss (pun intended). If you have any specific questions the guys here will be able to help you out. It really isn't anything to be scared of. Good luck and if in doubt just ask. No gaskets needed for a carb overhaul/service.

One another note - I have alot of trouble starting this bike. Are the problems related (incorrect float level causing the bike to be flooded even before i pull out the kick starter)?

If when opening petcok to get the fuel flowing and you have a wrong float/needle combo then yeah it could drip even before you actually kick it .

UPDATE: Well, I pulled the carb apart last night, cleaned 'er all up, and adjusted the float level. It seems to be better - not dripping fuel like before. This was the first time that I had pulled the fuel line off the carb - the petcock is letting a constant drip of fuel by even in the off position!?!

Is this common - what's required - pulling apart the fuel shutoff valve, cleaning, replacing "O"rings, etc?

Most likely the petcock has a groove worn in the valve. If you take it apart you can fill the groove in with JB weld and then sand it back down smooth, reassemble and it should be good to go.

Sounds like a great tip - I'll give it a try. Thanks!