Cold starting tip/block heater

[Sidecar Bob]

When it is cool out (below 10c) there is a simple way make it start easily: Before trying to start the engine, whack the throttle open quickly. This will cause the accelerator pump to inject a squirt of raw fuel into the carb throats.
It works when it is cold (below -5c) too, but as it gets colder you need to whack it open more times. I find that 4 times is about right at -20.

Below -15 I take an extension cord to work and plug in my block heater.

This will only work if you have an electronic ignition/prolink model (GL500 or a CX/GL650). CX500s with twin shocks do not have accelerator pumps.

Some years ago I installed a n inline block heater on my GL500. When I put the 650 together I used the same parts for it:
- Cut the transfer pipe off to about an inch beyond the frontmost clamp, grind the chrome off of the last 1/8" or so and solder on a ring of #14 copper wire (use a torch and the same solder & flux you would use for plumbing)(the pipe should be removed from the engine while you alter it)
- Get a 1" diameter inline heater. This is the smallest size they sell. The original fittings are 24mm (15/16") but good clamps will compress new hoses adequately.
- Buy a new Dayco 71501 lower rad hose and cut the new hoses needed from it (it has the correct curves to fit the 650 and probably the 500). This will also give you a new upper rad hose too.
- Re-assemble with new stainless steel band clamps.
- I fastened the power cord to the transfer pipe with a couple of zip ties and then ran it up under the seat so that it hangs out behind the seat, but I have only a SilverWing front seat on mine, so you will need to figure out your own routing. I think I had it routed to the middle of the handlebars on the 500.

[Q]

Good idea on the block heater. My CXs have always been hard to start when it's cold.

BTW I think it's only the early CX 500s, maybe 78 and 79 that don't have an accelerator pump. Both my 80 and 81 CX500Cs have the pump, a single pump for the two carbs.

Q

[Sidecar Bob]

If they are like the later models, the single pump on the left carb connects to a tube that runs across to the right carb so that it pumps a squirt into both throats.