Motorcycle Repair: 96 Yamaha Kodiak ATV, yamaha kodiak, fuel contamination

Question
I recently repaired or attempted to repair the muffler (baffles somewhat shot and fixed a hole). Installed it and drove it for 2km. At the end of the run the engine sputtered and started to die. It seemed not to get fuel, also get quite hot but the engine oil temp light did not come on (it does work).  Replaced the plug (.025 gap) and ran again, now sputters and gurgles after a short run.  Any ideas that I might pursue (I do have the clymer book).  

Answer
Hi Reg,

There could be a number of things causing the performance problems; stale fuel, varnished carburetor, defective igntion, petcock obstruction, fuel contamination, fuel vent hose pinched, exhaust problem, poor cylinder compression, dirty or restricted air filter, worn engine, etc...

Review the troubleshooting section in the Clymer's manual. Follow their procedures and check everything via process of elimination.

Visit "www.atvfrontier.com" for more tech assistance.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively