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Keihin 39mm FCR Carb worth it


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I have a '03 400S and I'm looking into changing the carb out. It seems every one is happy with the Keihin 39mm FCR.

My question to those that have done this conversion is it worth just buying it from tt store or piece it together and try to save some bucks. I think that buying it from tt might be more expensive, but then won't have the head ache of trying to track down parts. Any sugestions welcomed.

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I have a '03 400S and I'm looking into changing the carb out. It seems every one is happy with the Keihin 39mm FCR.

My question to those that have done this conversion is it worth just buying it from tt store or piece it together and try to save some bucks. I think that buying it from tt might be more expensive, but then won't have the head ache of trying to track down parts. Any sugestions welcomed.

TT Store = Headache free. Everything you need is included. That's why I'd get it from the TT Store.

Let me add a couple of questions to your question(s), tallasatwee, because I've been wondering about a few things before I take the FCR plunge.

I've been happy with the performance of my bike w/ the stock carb so far. The only times that I've thought that I needed more hp(fcr) is when I'm chasing "moto-scoot" on his 1300cc Buell Ulysses, usually we we're out hitting twisties maybe 1x every 2 months.

Ok, here are some questions for you w/ FCR's.

1. The 4-5hp gained worth the $500+ price?

2. How often are you in a situation that you have used or needed to use the added hp while riding your bike?

Thanks in advance!?

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I did it, same year and model. Best bang for the buck performance wise is putting in an FCR. I did not price out the parts individually so can't speak for any savings. I myself preffered having kit and everything in one box. (Although I did have to order a separate jet and fuel screw.) In addition everyone seems to know about the TT FCRMX kit. I've seen on occasion someone would purchase used or different style FCR and this seems to complicate any troubleshooting you may run into. In addition you get the great TT customer service and support this great forum.

Instead of accelerating through the gears I am now trying to shift fast enough to keep up with the motor.

To me it's worth every penny and there would have to be a huge savings not to order from TT.

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I did this mod to my XR 400 and it was the single best improvement I made to the bike. Buy a kit, figuring out the jetting turned my hair white.

For me it wasn't the power increase that made the change worth it, it was the throttle response that was worth the money.

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Just a few comments to add on the worth of the FCR. I ride about 90% off road. I had issues with the stock carb bogging out when it would really get jolted going over rocks and rapid elevation changes. It was not a kickstand kill switch problem but rather an inherent problem with the stock carb per Eddie.

I tired the 3x3 and rejet with a JD kit which helped but did not solve the issue.

Since installing the FCR all is cured. I love the extra HP but my goal was to cure the bog. All around the FCR is better in design and function in more ways than I can describe.

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I didn't get the TT carb, I acquired a used carb from an E. I wish I would've got the TT carb & here's why; it took a few weeks of gathering bits-N-pieces, scouring 'FCR' threads, & trial & error to get it to fit. The bits-N-pieces added up quick. I also had to buy E model throttle cables. The float bowl gasket was pinched & leaked, so I had to order another.

Looking back, I'd definitely get the FCR MX from TT.

In fact, here's a link to my garage with the notes on my particular FCR upgrade:

https://www.thumpertalk.com/forum/garage.php?do=viewmod&mid=47396

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I bought mine used from a member of TT and SMJ. I had to buy the parts and pieces to adapt it to my bike. I saved money going this route but it was more work than just ordering the kit.

If you are not the type of person that enjoys being "resourceful" then I would just order the kit and pay the extra bit of money. Plus, as Eddie says, you do not risk getting junk.

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I lucked out and got a 39fcr off of ebay for 200.00 It came off of a drz400e model and it had the jd jet kit in it, and the guy gave me the airbox boot,throttle cables and spare jets. I had it installed by my mechanic and it was not much in labor either. The bike rips and i have no problems to speak of. I have the 440kit, hot cams, fmf powerbomb w/Q2, 3x3, twin-air filter. The carb was the last thing i did and man it really woke the bike up, i was shocked by how much of a difference a carb can make! I guess i am one of the lucky ones that got one off ebay and had no problems. The way im looking at it is i saved like 300.00 and change from buying new and having it installed.

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I was just about to post a thread regarding an FCR.

I just brought one off Ebay. I was going to purchase a TT kit in the neer future but this came up for £65 including p+p. Its actually off a KTM so I know its going to need all the extra bits and pieces but I work for suzuki so I can get E model parts easily and cheaper.

I beleive that these carbs are all the same except the addapters etc so I presume with the right bits this will work fine. If I'm wrong then please let me know.

I couldn't pass this opportunity and thought if all else fails I could probably sell it for more than I brought it.

I will let you know hoe it all goes.. for now at least I have a big smile on my face ?

FCR39.jpg

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I was just about to post a thread regarding an FCR.

I just brought one off Ebay. I was going to purchase a TT kit in the neer future but this came up for £65 including p+p. Its actually off a KTM so I know its going to need all the extra bits and pieces but I work for suzuki so I can get E model parts easily and cheaper.

I beleive that these carbs are all the same except the addapters etc so I presume with the right bits this will work fine. If I'm wrong then please let me know.

I couldn't pass this opportunity and thought if all else fails I could probably sell it for more than I brought it.

I will let you know hoe it all goes.. for now at least I have a big smile on my face ?

FCR39.jpg

as long as it has the removable intake bell it should work fine.the throttle wheel assembly will contact the frame so you do have to tilt the carb
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I bought a used FCR off of ebay and after using it with an EMN needle and jetting noticed higher fuel consumption. I thought the thing was a piece of crap(the FCR). Eddie told me to get the EMP needle and the main jet holder. After fooling with the Taffy mod, new throttle plate and another round of jetting and all the gaskets, the carb is finally sorted(runs good). Haven't done a fuel mileage check, but it rips. Finicky piece if you ask me, but definetly more power. Order from TT, the price I have into this and all the screwing around, it is worth the 500 from the TT store. The used ones are prone to wearing out, I got somewhat lucky and mine hasn't ended up on the garage floor, but it was close. Good Luck if you go on Ebay, you will need it. ? vanram

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  • 2 years later...
I did this mod to my XR 400 and it was the single best improvement I made to the bike. Buy a kit, figuring out the jetting turned my hair white.

For me it wasn't the power increase that made the change worth it, it was the throttle response that was worth the money.

I know this an old thread but I have a line on a used FCR39 for $200.00 locally(possibly out of a WR/YZ400) and would totally appreciate what jetting you used.

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$561.66

The FCR is about better throttle response no matter the motor, and tune/usability in other MOD'ed applications.

If You MUST choose between a 94mm BB kit and an FCR kit..Start with the BB, tune your present carb.

How much does the complete kit actuallycost??? sounds like its better than a big bore kit???thanks Tom
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