Water in Airbox

[saddletramp]

After my last ride I noticed a fair amount of water in my air box. I had the snorkel out with 4,5/8 holes drilled in the lid. It was raining pretty hard but will contribute some of the water to wash up afterward. I put the snorkel back in and put duct tape over the holes. Do most of you seal up your airbox for winter riding?

 

[strider80]

Is the airbox "drain" clear? It is a rubber nipple dealie on the bottom.

 

[saddletramp]

Yeah, I guess I did not explain that very well. The water was draining out, but after it soaked the bottom of the filter and foamed up the filter oil and sealing grease.

 

[glad2ride]

Yep, the more open an airbox is, the more air AND water it will let in.

 

[strider80]

Was it from the wash down or were you actually fording water over the seat?

 

[saddletramp]

I am guessing some or most was from wash down I dont know, I rode thru some deep puddles but nothing close to the seat. I just installed a new 1173 and I could see some of the foamy looking oil in the carb body.

 

[strider80]

Hmm, I never have noticed any water.....but I don't remember ever opening up the carb or airbox immediately after washing or riding the bike through water.

Where have you been riding lately? I am not sure where to go to avoid gigantic puddles.

 

[saddletramp]

I know its rained at least 12" since fri. sunday morning it stopped for a while. There is a pipeline close to here on ft. lewis kind of risky though. I have read that people are riding up in shelton, I dont know if Belfair is open year round?

 

[X Fab]

When running through water fast, at times i've gotten water in my airbox (lid off, no holes elsewhere). I added foam between the frame and lower left side of the gas tank to block what looked like a direct shot to the top of the airbox. I haven't the prob since. Hmmmm.....maybe I need to go faster now.

 

[saddletramp]

Stellar idea, I just test rode my bike with the airbox sealed up and it wont wheelie any more. :(

 

[strider80]

Belfair is usually the best bet in winter, it is open year round. It is mostly sand/silt, so it drains okay, not much mud, but there are huge puddles that you can usually skirt. Lots of wet rocks and roots too, but it is still fun!

 

[saddletramp]

Well next time you go I want to tag along. I like riding new places with some one thats been before.

 

[strider80]

Cool!