Re: reed valves
What they do is the same as the poppet valves in an auto engine, basically. They allow fuel/oil/air into the crankcase, as the piston rises, then close as the piston falls. This pressurizes the gas and allows it to be pushed into the cylinder as the transfer ports are uncovered (by the falling piston).<br /><br />The easiest way to check them it to hold your hand at the carb throat and see if there is any 'spitting back'. This would indictae a reed not closing fully, allowing fuel/oil/air mixture to be pushed back through the carb.<br /><br />Chris............