23hp Kawisaki running rich

[GreatDane04]

I've got a 2004 Great Dane with a 23hp Kawasaki motor. The thing seems to be running way to rich. It will hesitate and then blow a black cloud out the exhaust. This is not good because the oil turns black way tooo fast.

Has anyone else encountered this problem?

What if any adjustments can/should be done?

Thanks!
Dave

[Restrorob]

You may want to check the carb for flooding (trash/stuck float valve). When was the air filter changed last ?

[GreatDane04]

air filter changed last month. It gets new plugs every month. Where should the float level be? Is there a set level?

[Restrorob]

Here is the float/float needle valve check;


http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m314/Restrorob/Kawasaki/FH/FH451Through721FloatAdjust.jpg


Below is a paste, This is reason for asking about the air filter. Just food for thought.....

There are two different air filters for this engine depending upon if it has a internally vented or externally vented carb. The filters look the same but the micron rating of the paper is different. Using the wrong one or a aftermarket not identified for the proper carb could cause a rich/poor run situation.

If your carb has a gold plate on the top held with three screws you need part # 11013-7027 air filter, With no plate on top part # 11013-7024.

[GreatDane04]

thanks rob, i'll give it a shot. The filter is the right one, I made sure of it when I bought it at the dealer.