Fuel leaking when the bike is in the sun

[binarystarr]

I thought perhaps i had a carb problem but i'm pretty sure now it's not as i've not run the bike today at all.


It seems that when the bike is in the sun for any length of time, fuel leaks out the overflow pipe.


I know petrol expands when it's hot but surely it shouldn't leak? Is this a dodgy washer somewhere thats letting petrol out when it shouldn't be?


Anyone else had similar problems on any other bike?

[b1k3rdude]

if its from the overflow pipe at the bottom of the bike and your tank was full at the time then your going to get some expansion of the fuel - hence a small amount on the ground under the bike from said o/f pipe.

[Falcon 269]

How full is the tank when this happens?

What's the year of the bike?

[binarystarr]

Its an 02 and the tank was filled yesterday.

[know your limitations]

May not have anything to do with the sun?
Which stand do you use?
If you "brim" your tank, then use the side stand before a decent amount has been used..... overflow city. 
I use the centre stand without fail after a fill up until the fuel needle has moved to at least past the "F".

Also, if you've fitted shorter dogbones, this will increase the angle of lean on the side stand making an overflow even easier.
It may seem like a daft question but do you only fill the bike when it's nice weather and you're getting it ready for a ride? or are you an all weather rider?

[Falcon 269]

Its an 02 and the tank was filled yesterday.

It's probably that unexpected (and rare!) heatwave you're reportedly having that's done something you've not seen during the Wet Age. 

If it doesn't happen again, it was heat expansion.  If the leakage occurs again - especially if you know the tank is well below brimming - then let us know.  There's a few things that could cause it but no point in fretting them right now. 

[binarystarr]

Thanks all, i will keep an eye on it.


As soon as the sun calmed down the leak stopped.  I was on the sidestand too so will make sure its on the centre stand from now on!

[fireblake]

Quote from Falcon 269
It's probably that unexpected (and rare!) heatwave you're reportedly having that's done something you've not seen during the Wet Age. 

How very rude!!!


I drove my wife's Golf Convertible to work yesterday and have a very sun burnt head. Damn you, sunshine.   

[Falcon 269]

How very accurate, you mean, mate

As for the sunburnt head.  ATGATT.

[fireblake]

How very accurate, you mean, mate

As for the sunburnt head.  ATGATT.

I think the baseball cap will be in use, or the Deer stalker.


But not today as it's been pissistantly precipitating