Questionmy newly acquired '66 superhawk is not turning over. what is the proper starting technique (i.e., the choke) with the electronic ignition. also, what is the technique for the kick starter. any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
AnswerPaul, "not turning over" could mean a seized engine, defective electric starter or not starting to me....?
Which one is it? Does it really have the electronic ignition system installed?
Take the spark plugs out and plug them into the plug wires, then lay them on the cylinder head and either kick start or electric start the bike. Look for spark at both plugs. If good, then you can focus on fuel delivery. If the plugs are black, wet and fouled, replace them and begin again.
With properly tuned engine and functioning ignition system, etc. the drill for starting most 305s is FULL CHOKE and NO THROTTLE. Kicking it or using the electric starter should get it fired up and it will spit and sputter at first. Lower the choke lever about 10-20% immediately and use the throttle to keep it running, as it warms up. These bikes are cold-blooded normally, but it is worse if the compression is low, the ignition timing is incorrect and carbs are out of synchronization. Give the engine several minutes to warm up and settle down to where it can idle on its own. Normal idle speed is around 1200 rpm...
I have restoration guides, engine repair manuals and all the tune up info that you can imagine for these bikes on CDROM.
Bill Silver
www.vintagehonda.com
