TIMING MARKS FOR YAMAHA XS 1100 SPECIAL - 1981 Yamaha XS 400 Special

SOURCE: looking for a manual for a 1979 Yamaha XS 1100.

Get on the web and Google " motorcycle service manual yamaha "
Also try your local library. Often manuals are donated.

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SOURCE: Where can I find a new starter motor for a 1981 yamaha 400 cc xs

Here is a possible source in the USA:
http://www.cycletronics.com/home.htm

SOURCE: what is the best kind or type of oil to use when

Use 10w40 motor oil in the gear box. Don't use any synthetic oils, oil marked "EC", or oil with "special" additives. Stick with the major brands; Pennzoil, Quaker State, Mobil or Shell.



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SOURCE: when idling engine spits back thru carbs

You should check the valve clearances, camshafts timing and make a compression test on the engine too.
One or more of your inlet valves is/are either not closing entirely or they close but their stem is damage and it doesn't seal off the combustion chamber properly.

SOURCE: 1980 Yamaha XS 1100 Carduretor diagram

It is part of a detent mechanism for the choke. No, all 4 carbs do not have them, only 1.
Here is a link to Yamaha's website, where you can pull up a diagram of your bike's carbs. The ball is #10 and there is also a spring with it.
http://www.yamaha-motor.com/sport/parts/home.aspx
They are saying there are 2 balls and 2 springs, but I do not remember them having 2. I also don't see another #10 or #11 on the picture anywhere. You should be able to look at the rod that connects all the chokes together and see if there are 2 sets of dimples for the balls. Obviously there will be one set in carb #1, if you find another set of dimples for a detent ball, then there indeed would be 2. Also, the carb body would be drilled for the spring and ball like the #1 carb is.
Thanks
RSRBOB