Petcock & gastank ?s

[Streetshooter]

I have a question about the petcock.
Today I was cruisin' and at around 70 miles out
the bike stalled...I don't panic and I check the tank and there's
gas in there. I moved the petcock to the rear not knowing
where it would hit reserve...
she fired up and I headed to get gas...
it took 2 1/2 gallons to top off.....hmmmmmmm??????

So here are few questions....the petcock position question was
graciously answered in a different thread... Thanks for that.

Why would I need reserve at only 1/2 a tank?
What kinda mileage can I expect?
Bike is a 90' 750...
What is the prime position for.....?

I don't have an owners manual so if the questions seem silly, to me their issues...I like to ride a few hundred miles an outing....

Any replies appreciated....shooter

[Smokey]

Shouldn't need "Res" at 1/2 tank. My guess would be that either: 1) Your fuel gauge is off. 2) You have a vacuum problem. 3) Your diaphragm in the petcock needs rebuilt.

PRI- position is to fill the float bowels of the carbs when they are empty. This allows fuel flow without the engine running.

[cleankat96]

I think turning the knob pointing back is prime anyway so it wouldnt be using vacuum to get fuel flow, maybe its time to rebuild the petcock

[Streetshooter]

On my Harleys I have Pingle petcocks...
Is there a great replacement for the OEM?
If not, what's the best place for parts?

I feel like a newb......an old one at that....
Don

[Maxxrox]

As cleankat96 mentioned, knob pointing to the rear of the bike (for 98+, at any rate) is prime. Reserve is pointing at the headlights.

Check the petcock vacuum line (hooked up? not dry or cracked?), then test to make sure your petcock is functioning properly in the Run position.

If the vacuum is fine, may need to tear into the petcock itself.


--B

[Streetshooter]

Thanks guys.....after work I'll check the lines....
Don