86 500 sputters and stalls

[Kahla]

That definitely sounds like a possibility, since it wasn't just starting and dying but also surges of power and then nothing. No trace of the problem today, but I'll mention it to him just in case.

[gypsy]

keep us posted as to what you find...

[ernie12b]

Originally Posted by gypsy

there is a fuel filter. maybe one in the tank and another near the fuel pump.... even being all tuned up, well a filter can be clogged and letting in gasoline sporadically. any way sounds like a possibility to me. good luck getting to know your bike. and truly, enjoy the adventure.

the 500 has only a screen in the tank from the factory,if it has another filter it would be aftermarket and no fuel pump. warm it up and run it. this bike likes to rev.

[HardRock]

Have you checked the petcock vacuum line? If it is weak it may be collapsing or if there is a pinhole in the line or the petcock's diaphram it can cause symptoms like what your describing.

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[Kahla]

Awesome, thanks for all the suggestions. I'm writing them down so our mechanic buddy can take a look next time we're in his shop, or sooner if it acts up again.