QuestionI just puchased a 2005 YZ250F this week but im having a tough time getting it to start. It has started a couple of times and ran well, but it takes a high number of kicks to get it running and sometimes I can't get it to start at all. I've read that the fuel sometimes can evaporate and cause "varnish" to glog up the carburator. Can this be the problem or something else like bad gas? Do you know of anything I can do to solve this problem or should I take it back to the dearler. When I originally went to buy the bike the first one they gave me had the same problem. I had to take the bike back twice before the just gave me a different one. The new did start up at the store but when I got it home the trouble began. Please help all I have now is a $6000 paper weight. Thank you.
AnswerHi Russ,
You should be kind to your dealer. The were very accommodating.
I suspect the problem is with the engine starting technique. Maybe improper use of choke or throttle, or combined use of the two are causing the difficult starting, respectfully. Follow manufacturer's starting procedures to the letter. Also, with any engine, allow the engine to warm to operating temperatures before putting a load on it.
First thing to do is remove and clean the spark plug. It is likely wet fouled. Use a brake parts spray cleaner to clean the plug. Brake cleaners do not leave plugs with a conductive oily residue as carburetor cleaners will.
Gasoline left in a carb's float bowl will begin to varnish in as little as three weeks. A chemical change occurs causing the gas to gum or gel. Eventually, the gas changes into a crystal like substance. When the process reaches this stage, aluminum surfaces are etched. Usually, cleaning is fruitless and the entire carb(s) must be replaced. $$$
Contact the dealer and inquire as to what the techs found causing the first MC's problems.
Try the above and see what happens.
Respectfully,
Mark Shively
