Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 1997 skidoo mxz 440 (air Cooled), carburetor body, mxz 440

Question
I am having starting problems.  Unless I install fresh plugs the engine won't start.  The removed plugs appear to be fine (not fouled,fuel soaked)  I am starting to think it could be a fuel pump issue.  Not sure how to tell or repair.

Answer
Hello Bob:

Sorry for the Delay. High Winds Downed Trees and my Electric has been On and Off and the Darn Generator is Giving me Problems. lol  Its been a Fun Past Few Days. Is this the LZ or F Model? Is the Gas Free Flowing to the Fuel Pump? Pull a Vacuum on the Fuel Pump. If the Pump Holds Vacuum, then the Diaphragm is Good. I had the Same Problem with a 350 Wolverine and it Turned Out being the Carburetor Not Choking Properly.  **Remove, Disassemble and Soak the Carburetor Overnight in Carburetor Cleaner (I Use Gunk). I have Found that Most People can Use a Breakdown/IPL and Disassemble the Carburetor Enough for Proper Cleaning. You Only have to Remove the Bowl (if Applicable), Float Pin (if Applicable), Float (if Applicable)  and Needle Valve and Any Adjustment Screws that Go Into the Carburetor Body. The Welch Plugs Do Not have to be Removed. Then Soak the Carburetor Body and Parts in a 1 Gallon Can of Gunk Carburetor Cleaner Overnight. The Can has a Parts Tray Inside it for the Small Parts. Once the Carburetor and Parts are in the Cleaner, you can Replace the Lid for Safety and to Prevent Accidental Spillage. Then Blow Out the Passages with Compressed Air. Install New Parts if Required.** You can View a Breakdown of this Unit at this Site Addy; http://www.xtremepowersports.com/Ski_Doo_Parts__Skidoo_Parts__W/ski_doo_parts__s... and Ski Doo PArts Look Up. Now Select the Ski Doo Logo. Now Select the Year. Noe Select the Model. Now you can Select the Section of the Unit you Wish to View. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John