I have a 2005 V-max with only 4000 miles in perfect condition except the last time out for a ride the fuel light did not come on and the fuel did not stop at 120 miles (the usual for all V-maxes I have owned (3)) then still nothing all the way to 145 miles. I then stopped for gas and it took 3.6 gallons. Anybody had the same failure? If so, is it the sender or anything else? This bike is perfect except for this. Any help appreciated.

When my 98 was 7yrs old and had been garage kept,the fuel tank was rusting badly and clogging filter..Get a bright light,shine in tank when almost empty,if rusty coat or replace.While in there suggest changing sending unit..the Haynes or Clymers books explain to check bulb and fuse for reserve light,I suggest buying both or either book for reference..Feel free to call me if needed as I'm terrible typing..904-477-3835,,,Randy#3539

Not that this is on the same topic but I have a '98 that seems to be burning way too much fuel. I'm literally getting about 70 miles to a tank. I know I need to take it in, but just so I have an idea, can anyone suggest what could be wrong? I was told this weeken that when I really get on the throttle I get a lot of white smoke out of my left pipe.

Thanks,,
Bud

White smoke is water/steam. Drain the oil and be sure it's not milky brown as that could mean coolant is mixing in. If the oil looks good start looking for seals along the exhaust and carbs that might be leaking and letting excessive water in.

Thanks man. I will start there. Did you make the Autism ride? looked for you but there were SOOOOO many bikes! Really great time.

Bud

I missed it. My crew of Honda riders all got sick this week and bailed on me. I was going to head up there solo but ended up waking up at 9:45am. I should have pre-registered so I could have hauled ass to get there :/

Bud,I've done all my own repair and maintance for several years including carbs,but my typing is way slow,you can call me anytime we can discuss. that much fuel use could be detrimental to your engine,we can discuss..Randy 904-477-3835

Thanks Randy - I will call today.

This post was sent in:

An interuption in the sender/fuel light circuit will cause this to happen. If you inplug the sender The system will do what you mentioned. Unplug the sender and jump the plug out. If the light comrs on, the sender is n/g. If the light doesn't come on, check the bulb, then wiring. Usually it's the sender.

Randy and Mike,

Randy: Thank you for your response and for taking my call and helping me better understanding the removal of the fuel tank. I hope this won't be necessary, but I will check for rust as you mention.

Mike: Also, thank you Mike for your response. Before I start disassembling things, Is it easy to access the sender plug (where is it?) and could you explain what "jumping the plug out" means? Sorry for my ignorance on this subject. I would be grateful for any additional help.

Along the same lines some time ago I saw a members MOD titled " A fuel tank sender that really works". This is so a fuel gauge can be set up. I think it might be in one of the Vboost mags.
Would anyone know its whereabouts and if so, could we have a link to it?
I would really like to attempt this MOD. Can anyone help?
Cheers
Fitzystrike