Hey folks - having issues with gas flow and want to do a rebuild. As I understand it, the main two types readily available are the Karcoma (a new version of the original?) or the Everbest (the newest version?). The bike is a 1978 BMW R100RS if that matters for any reason. Is there anyway to know which these are so I can buy the correct rebuild kits?
That looks like the Karcoma 90 (versus straight). I don't think Everbest was used by the factory on anything as late as 78. The Everbest have a bullet type shape to the rear (towards bike) https://www.bobsbmw.com/store/product/karcoma-petcocks-fit-1970-95-airheads
@shadeobrady, the petcocks in the photos are Karcoma - the latest version. Everbest were usually fitted to early models ('55-69). See here for more detail: http://w6rec.com/duane/bmw/petcock/
Thanks so much for the help so far. I didn't see anything on MAX BMW for rebuilds. These two seem decent, but I notice one has a filter and the other an extra o-ring or washer? https://www.capitalcycle.com/Karcoma-Petcock-Rebuild-Kit--Airheads-to-1980_p_353.html https://vintagebmwparts.com/new-karcoma-petcock-gasket-rebuild-kit-2-hose-outlet-16-12-4-084-110kit/ Any suggestions on new hosing that'll last for a while?
The original peacock should have the outlet pointing downwards...... Before you order new parts, drain the tank, remove the taps and remove any watered grunge swilling in the bottom of the tank, then check again for flow.
The petcock used for a while, most notably in 1980 was the Germa. It is identified by the screw that retains the handle.
You have Karcoma petcocks. They may only need cleaning. There are only 2 parts available if needed. An O-ring and a flat rubber disk with 5 holes. If anything else other than these 2 parts is needed you have to buy a new complete part. Most times all that's needed is a good flushing with compressed air and a flush of the debris in the gas tank. Get some new gas line too. The GL doesn't last very long.
The lower brass or aluminum washer connected to the screen can wear and not seal well.. those should be replaced as well.
Right Solo. The filtration of the system is a large screen inside the tank that is held on top of the petcock straws and sealed by a metal washer on the modern screens and a separate red fiber washer on the old ones. You can still buy the red washers if that's what you have and they are worn out but the newer screen with a metal washer is one piece so if worn out you have to buy the whole screen. No problem really they only cost about $10. If the older screens are ratty just buy the modern ones.
I have two Germa taps for my big tank. did they make a right angle outlet (where the hose attaches) for these?
Thanks folks - this was all incredibly helpful. I yanked them off... both had the screen filters that plug upwards into the gas tank. Disassembly was pretty easy besides getting that end with the incredibly strong spring screwed back on, but not terrible. The gas flows - we're good!!
