QuestionHi I have a 1987 honda elite 50 and I can't get it to start. It gets spark, gas gets to the carb, and it almost fires but it doesn't what do i do?
AnswerTim, scooters aren't my specialty, but a number of things can affect any engine to keep it from starting, 2 or 4 stroke. GOTTA HAVE:
Compression... either get compression test done or pull the muffler and look up into the exhaust port to see if there is damage to the rings/piston/cylinder. Also notice if the exhaust port is plugged with carbon. Look at the exhaust pipe to see if there is buildup inside the inlet and of the tail pipe seems to be plugged up. Exhaust port and pipe have to be free flowing, otherwise fuel/air mix cannot go through the engine. If the crankbearings are shot the crankshaft movement will allow air to be drawn in around the seals instead of mixed with fuel in the carburetor.
Spark... strong and steady, at the right time. Spark timing is non-adjustable, but is generated by a pulser coil in the generator section that feeds the CDI ignition module, which regulates the timing. Spark plug needs to be clean and free of deposits, including gas/oil buildups that can short out the spark down the center electrode, instead of having it jump across the gap. The spark plug cap may have a resistor inside, that needs to be checked. Normally they are around 5k ohms. When in doubt about the plug's condition, buy a new one and try it. Plugs can foul quickly with gas/oil soaking the porcelain insulator.
Fuel/Air.. Idle jet must be clear and clean, so engine gets fuel at idle speeds/closed throttle. There is a cold start solenoid unit (bi-starter set in Honda speak) on the carb, that acts as the choke. If it isn't working, then you can have starting problems. The float bowl must be clean inside. Try draining the fuel out at the bottom drain screw and see if it looks dirty or contaminated with rust/water, etc. There is a screen for the petcock, up inside the fuel tank that could be plugged/restricted or the petcock can be worn/damaged. If you pull the carburetor and manifold you can check the reed valves for any kind of problem and look for signs of intake tract air leaks. If the gas in the tank is over a month old, drain it and put new fuel in!
Here's a site if you want to go DEEPLY into your machine.
http://www3.telus.net/dougsimpson/Elite_1.html
Bill Silver
