Snowmobile Repair: 1971 Arctic Cat wont start, arctic cat panther, tillotson hd

Question
Hello.  I have a 1971 Arctic Cat Panther with a 340 Kawasaki engine that won't start.  It has good spark and good compression (120 psi) Even though  I have the air/fuel mixture needle almost fully closed, the engine still floods out, but if I dry the plugs and put a bit of fuel in the cylinder, it runs for a brief period.  I have just recieved this snowmobile so I do not know much about the service history, except to say that new rings where installed a year ago.  Strangely enough my 1989 Ski Doo Everest is doing the same thing.  What am I missing?  Also would you please tell me how many times I should pull over an engine to recieve an accurate compression test?  Thanks in advance.  Gates  

Answer
Hello Gates,

  The problem you are having is very common, and a easy fix. What is happening, is the inlet needle inside of the carburetor is sticking open, and allowing fuel to freely run into the engine and flood it. They will always have this problem, when a sled has sat around for the summer, and the gasoline turns to gum and makes it stick. You will need to remove the carb, and clean it thoroughly. Your best bet, is to install new carb repair kits. You can buy them here for the Arctic Cat Panther and for the Ski-Doo Everest: http://www.mfgsupply.com/SnowCarbParts.html/mv_session_id=qDjagGRk   A far as I know, the Panther will have a Tillotson HD carburetor, but check, as the previous owner might have replaced it. Perhaps your Everest is a 1979? I'm not sure they were made in  1989, but it should have a Mikuni VM carburetor. The proper spark plugs for the Panther are NGK B8ES gapped at 0.030 in. Another helpful part site is, www.denniskirk.com   .   For the compression test, 4-5 sharp pulls is adequate. Doesn't sound like you have any type of compression problem, so it's nothing to worry about. I think rebuilding the carbs will have you on the snow! I hope this helps you out. Let me know if I can help at all, with any questions you might have! Best of luck to you with the Cat and Doo! --Arcticatman