critical maintenance tip/reminder to all klr 650 riders...check your

[Peter Dore]

I didn't like my after market fmf q4 muffler that my 08 klr came with. Loud and I was stalling at lights etc. Jeff K sent me a used 09 stock muffler and I love it! Everything about the bike is better, so those that predicted that it has not been re-jetted we're probably right. Starts easier, doesn't stall .. Thanks Jeff, the FMF heads your way tomorrow. Sent from my iPad

[boulder_adv_rider]

Folks, next chance you get, just a reminder to check the three airbox vulnerabilities including the two (2) rubber boots coming out from under the plastic airbox before the air goes through the filter and the one (1) full-length breather system located underneath the airbox just after the air exits the filter. Also, check your carb clamps to make sure those seals are tight/proper. Over the last decade I have learned the hard way that these vulnerabilities can lead to costly, unnecessary repairs and hastened maintenance cycles. My lessons and recommendations: 1. MOST IMPORTANT. There is a breather hose leading from the bottom of the air box just after the air is filtered. At the end of this hose, there is (or should be) a plug in it. Inspect regularly to make sure this hose is ALWAYS plugged at its end or partially fill it (note: below the clear breather) with silicone behind the plug for added safety (you can always unplug from the breather to drain). This hose is highly susceptible to dry rot and/or mechanical damage or otherwise the plug disappearing. If this plug is removed, debris is being sucked up through the tube and compromising SEVERELY the longevity of your engine--specifically, your intake valves, piston and cylinder. Trust me, your engine will not last long if this plug is gone and you're riding dusty off-road...I guarantee it. 2. Big jumps (or bouncing heavy loads) can force the suspension and chain up high enough to completely sheer-off the airbox plastic nipple and boot on the left side (as seated on the bike). Mine was completely gone before the first 500 miles with only the telltale sign of chain grooves in the airbox plastic. (Note: I've completely pimped my rear suspension ever since.) Without this boot in place, debris can enter here, reducing longevity of your filter and thus hasten your maintenance cycle. If the nipple is damaged beyond replacing the boot, just fill any remaining hole with black silicone. Otherwise, if you haven't sheered off yours, just check the boot and clamp and replace if missing or worn/dry rotted. If you don't want to/can't order the OEM boots ($3) or clamp ($2), just get vacuum plugs from NAPA (1/2" maybe) as they're very durable and with a quick clamp won't fall off. They're more durable but not as easy to drain as OEM boots...in the unlikely event of a hard water landing.... Thankfully, with this bike, I've never had to drain the airbox of water, fish or ugly mermaids. Happy riding to all.