High Speed Engine Cut Out
 

I have a 1988 XT600Z Tenere which when ridden hard will cut out for a split second before reaching peak revs. I usually back off as a precaution as it feels like a seizure. The bike has always done it and I have assumed it is either rev limiter coming in too soon (do they have one?) or fuel starvation caused by my in-line filters. The other day I was in a BIG hurry due to a domestic emergency at home and held her open when the usual cut out occurred, but did not back off and the bike seemed to go for a full seizure. I whipped the clutch in and coasted to the hard shoulder expecting it to have locked up solid but it simply started up again on the electric starter. Everthing seems OK (no smoke) apart from a 'tinking' sound which I can't decide is new or me being paranoid. The engine had a complete rebuild about 6k miles ago prior to Morocco trip and has always been silent (i.e. no rattles etc.). I give the old girl a thorough service every 2-3k miles and generally pamper it. Before I strip it to see what mechanical damage may have occurred (if any...) has anyone else experienced these symptoms and if so was it a seizure? Any ideas?

Regards,
Craig Exley

First , remove fuel filters , often if clogged with soot cannot let pass enough fuel , particularly when second carburettor starts ..

it don't seem an electrical failure or seizure - again in case of a seizure the rumour will be greatly different ...even louder than the exaust!

hi,
first, don't be too nervous about it!
as long as there is no blue smoke and oil-consumption is normal don't worry.
did you check the kill-switch / side-stand (if you have one)? disconnect the plug and short-circuit it.
check the tank cap, sometimes the ventilation is blocked and might lead to such symtoms.
there is also a small filter inside the carburator above the swimmer needle valve (or how do you call this in english?).
good luck and let us know!
klaus

swimmer needle valve (or how do you call this in english?).

= float needle is the little piece that moves, the assembly is technically "float valve" or "float needle and seat"

"seat" is the part the needle "sits" on to seal. :-)

Thank Klaus, you're doing a great job, much appreciated!

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Grant Johnson

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