Weekend trip. Weather quite warm Friday and Saturday and bike felt seriously out of power, but otherwise no symptoms. Returning home Sunday, weather much cooler, 60 vs 85 and bike felt much better, however as day warmed up again felt underpowered. Valves recently set, carbs balanced, timing checked (very jumpy timing mark, perhaps in need of timing chain- closing in on 200,000mi).
Have also checked that for good fuel supply.
Where to go next?
With that many miles, a new cam chain is a must. Until then, make sure your ignition is set at high RPM with the "F" mark using a strobe timing light. Static timing is no good with a loose timing chain.
After that we have to suspect a varnish type of film on the carb needles due to ethanol fuel. You'll have to pull the slides to inspect. If you see brown or green color (anything except plain bright brass) on the needles, then the bike is running leaner than it needs. You can clean this off with 600 grit emery cloth (but nothing any coarser !) and carb cleaner. With 200K miles it's time to replace the needles and needle jets anyway.
Hope this helps.
Owning an old Airhead is easy.
Keeping an old Airhead running great is the true test.
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