Fuel Filters, Petcocks & The Job Everyone Puts Off (But Shouldn’t)
Why regular fuel system maintenance matters—and how Throttle and Shine makes it easier than you think
Let’s face it—removing the fairings and tank just to get to a fuel filter or petcock is a pain. It’s fiddly, time-consuming, and honestly, most people would rather ignore it altogether.
But here’s the truth: fuel system maintenance is critical to keeping your bike running smoothly. Whether you’re running carbs or EFI, your engine needs a clean, consistent flow of fuel to perform properly. Neglecting this area can lead to more than just sluggish throttle response—it can eventually cause real engine trouble.
⛽ What Goes Wrong (and Why It Matters)
Motorcycles, especially those not ridden regularly or stored over winter, are prone to fuel-related issues like:
Clogged fuel filters, restricting fuel flow
Worn petcock diaphragms, leading to leaks or vacuum issues
Debris buildup in the fuel system from old or untreated petrol
Fuel starvation, especially under acceleration
Hard starting, rough idle, and poor throttle response
If left unchecked, these small issues can cause:
Inconsistent fueling
Poor combustion
Fouled plugs
Excess wear on the fuel pump or injectors
In some cases, even engine damage over time
💸 The Good News? It’s Not Expensive
The actual replacement parts—fuel filters, petcock seals, or diaphragms—are relatively inexpensive. What usually drives up the bill for the biker? The labour involved in getting to the fueling system.
Fairings off. Tank off. Lines drained. Then put it all back.
But here’s where Throttle and Shine does things differently:
We don’t charge you for the time spent removing or refitting your fairings or tank.
It’s part of the job, not a bolt-on fee.
You’ll only pay for:
The replacement parts
The time it takes to properly service your fuel system
No padding. No surprises. Just solid, honest work that keeps your bike running right.
🛠️ Who Needs This Most?
Riders who store their bikes in winter
Bikes that sit unridden for long periods
Commuters who depend on their machine running reliably
Anyone noticing poor performance, hesitation, or poor fuel economy
Basically… all of us at some point
So yes—it’s a bit of a job.
But done right and done early, it saves you from bigger problems down the road.
Book your fuel system check today, or drop us a message with your symptoms.
Throttle and Shine – fair prices, full service, quality guaranteed.