Snowmobile Repair: starting, wal marts, plug holes


Question
1995 Artic Cat ZR580 EFI fails to start.
Sled was used extensively last winter and for the 3 years that I have owned has always started on first or second pull. Recommended maintenance performed when put in storage for summer.

In preparation for upcoming season found that battery and brake master cyclinder needed replacement. When initial attempts to start yielded no result a new set of NGK plugs were installed. Getting spark through the plug wires and the plugs are wet after cranking a few times. On multiple occasions the motor will come to attempt to come to life, but only for a second or two.

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!!

Answer
Hello Verne,

 The problem you are having could be fuel system related. I would start with checking to make sure there are no mouse nests or similar blockages in your exhaust system, or air box. Then, try spraying a good blast of Gumout fuel injector cleaner into the throttle body on the fuel injection. After this, add about 1/3 bottle of STP® Super Concentrated Gas Treatment to your gas tank, if it is full. You should have fresh gas in your tank. I don't recommend NGK, unless it is all that is available. Champion Powersport plugs are best, as they are designed for sleds. You can get them at most Wal-marts. Last of all, check your compression, either by using a tester, or by simply grounding all plugs and placing your thumb over the plug holes. have someone crank the sled over with the rope. It should cause your thumb to blow off of the hole. If it does not, your compression is low, and you will need to have your rings replaced. Another problem could be your coil, sometimes they will spark when you check the plugs, but won't make the plugs fire under compression. That would be something to have your dealer test. Hope this helps, the reason I haven't given extensive instructions, is that your sled is EFI, and that is a job left to the shop, if it's the problem. Let me know how it works out, or if you have any other questions! Good luck with the Cat! --Arcticatman