How can you tell if your motor is running too rich or too lean?

In this video from Partzilla.com, John is walking you through the differences in the symptoms of a motor running too lean and the symptoms of a motor running too rich. But first, a little explanation.

For the purposes of our discussion here, we’re just talking about carbureted engines. And all rich or lean really means is what side of the stoichiometric ratio your motor is running. If your motor is in the middle, it will have just enough fuel and air to mix together to fully ignite all the fuel without air left behind. And what’s that magic number? 14.7 parts air to one part fuel.

More air? Too lean. More fuel? Too rich.

So what are the symptoms of an engine that runs rich? John will explain how acceleration, conditions where you ride, and the appearance of the exhaust pipe and spark plugs can tell you a lot.

What about the other side of the coin? What are the signs your motor is running too lean? Again, you’ll find some hints in how your machine accelerates, how and when it backfires, and whether it runs better in heat or in the cold. You’ll also see some hints in your exhaust and your spark plugs.

Find out more about engines running lean or rich here: https://www.partzilla.com/blog/motorc...

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