Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): atv will not start for anything, ign, crazy today

Question
Hi John-
My atv just doesnt want to start, theres gas and a new plug and all and a
spark. The thing is, i havent used it for a month and left the petcock on the
whole time. I never had a single issue with the carb so i know its not dirty or
anything, plus the gas i put is was brand new a month ago, and gas lasts
longer than one month. I was trying like crazy today to try and start it. Is it
just plain old flooding? What are some good ways of deflooding? Thanks

Answer
Hello Victor:

Send me the Make and Model Numbers, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. Is the Spark Plug Wet After Trying to Start the Engine? To Clear a Flooded 4 Cycle Cylinder; 1- Remove the Plug. 2- Turn the Engine Over Several Times. 3- Leave the Plug Out of the Engine for 5 Minutes or Longer. Replace the Plug and Try Again. To Clear a 2 Cycle Engine; Simply Turn Off the Ign and Hold the Throttle at Full. Turn the Engine Over Several Times and then Turn on the Ign and Start the Engine. There is a Quick Way to Clear a Flooded Engine. I have Never Given Out the Quick Way to Clear a Flooded Engine Due to the Procedure Being a Little Tricky for a Novice. Anyway, Have you Checked the Flywheel Key? Sometimes when an ATV Engine is Shut Off, the Flywheel Key will Become Damaged and the Engine Fires the Plug Out of Time. I have a Yama 350 Wolverine that has this Problem. No Matter what Torque I Use on the Flywheel Nut, it Seems the Flywheel Loosen Over a Period of Time and the Flywheel Key Gets Damaged About Every 9 to 12 Months. I have Even Contacted Yama Support and have Been Told that the Flywheel Torque is Not Enough. I Think 200 Foot Pounds is More than Enough to Hold the Flywheel Tight to the Crankshaft. When was the Last Time the Carburetor was Cleaned? How Often is this Unit Operated? 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