Prepared my bike for winter storage, fuel drained and battery wired up to optimate charger. Didn't bargain for the oil tank draining down into the sump and then the garage floor.
Made the decision to fix it for good and fitted a valve in the feed line from these guys: https://www.themagnetoguys.co.uk/oil-tap-with-cut-out-switch
Fitted the valve and wired the switch into the ignition circuit and all's well.
Can't accidentally fire the bike up with the valve shut.
I had exactly this problem after leaving my M21 standing for winter. Found oil in the combustion chamber when putting on a new gasket. Drained the sump and up and running second kick. I have a valve to fit which is supposed to be a one way valve. ie no stop cock. Is this advisable? Or should I get one i can manually operate?
I looked at those automatic non return valves and decided against it.
How do you know if they're open or closed?
I would rather rely on my feeble brain to remember to open the valve. You can always put a tag on the handlebar as a reminder, similar to what they do with disc locks.
At least with my chosen method I can't start the engine if the valve is shut.
Hi,
If you search this Forum you should find a thread on this topic that include info. on a valve that is also a switch so that when the oil tap is turned off the ignition is also off. They can work with points or mag.
Dave.
Quote from: DAVE BRADY on 03 Mar, 2025, 08:52 Hi,
If you search this Forum you should find a thread on this topic that include info. on a valve that is also a switch so that when the oil tap is turned off the ignition is also off. They can work with points or mag.
Dave.
I've come to the conclusion that this is the only safe system to fit.
Anything that allows the engine to be started with the oil supply cut off is a recipe for disaster, no matter what sort of routine you devise.
I've never liked the idea of those automatic anti wet sump valves either, they only need to stick once.
Is there any real evidence of automatic wet dumping valves failing? The one I've seen is more likely to fail open than closed.
When these bikes were built 70 years ago, they were used every day to commute etc.
Therefore , oil dribbling past the pump was never an issue.
It's only
Its only us, not using the bikes, that has generated the issue.So , use them more.
My bikes have drain plugs in the sump plate (welded on a nut) , so if laid over winter,pot underneath , and tip it back when ready for a ride, then use the thing.
Quote from: Derek996 on 04 Mar, 2025, 19:33 Is there any real evidence of automatic wet dumping valves failing? The one I've seen is more likely to fail open than closed.
As my Venom has one as standard (as all the singles do) I sincerely hope not!
The only real issue with the Velo type is if the oil pipe downstream of the valve is allowed to have air in then the pump can cavitate and fail to pass oil. It's essential to check that the pipe is full after the oil has been drained and replaced.
Usually OK after a simple oil change, but if the feed pipe has been disconnected and contains air it is essential to refill it with oil before starting.