86 VF500F Interceptor choke lever wont stay in position

Like the title says, I just bought an 86 vf500f and it seems to run great. one problem is the choke lever will not stay in position. when I push the choke lever all the way down and release it, it goes back into the closed position.

I'm assuming its just the actual lever itself, the ball in the lever is worn and wont hold the lever in place so I got a choke lever from ebay. Do you think this will fix my problem? and how do I go about replacing the lever? I have the service manual but cannot seem to find a section that shows me how to take apart the left handlebar controls


Thanks!

 

Don't discount the possibility of a rusted/stuck choke cable.

 

Yes, check to see if the "choke valves"are opening.

 

Choke definitely works.

 

I'll bet that reducing cable slack by turning out the adjuster (threaded section just under the lever assembly) would provide the additional tension needed to hold lever in position.