Motorcycle Repair: Sportster starting problems, intake leak, pushrod

Question
QUESTION: I have a 1993 883 sportster (converted to 1200).  Last fall I  removed my engine to install a rigid tail end.  My front cylinder base gasket was leaking so while the engine was out I replaced the top end gaskets, pistons and rings. I had to re-route some wiring due to the new frame.  The bike is back together and the problem I'm having is when I try to start the bike.  It will start with no problem but will die immediately. It will keep doing this until the battery wears out.  It acts as though it isn't getting gas but with the breather off I can see the gas flow is good.  I've taken the carb (S&S Super E) apart and everything seems fine.  I'm hearing a clatter when it starts that seems like it is coming from pushrod area or maybe the camshaft area.  I wonder if this is because it hasn't run enough to pump oil to these areas.  I'm stumped, I'm going to pull the carb off again and take a closer look to be certain I haven't missed anything.  I'm also going to check my wirig to be certain nothing is loose or connected wrong.  Does this sound like an ignition module or coil problem. Someone suggested that it may be an intake leak.  I haven't replaced the gaskets on the intake manifold yet but I did remove it to check the seals.  Other than the gaskets leaking the bike was running fine before I started this project. Any suggestions?

ANSWER: If you had a intake leak the bike would run, but run lean. Try starting the bike and when it starts, but starts to shut off, spray some starting fluid into the carb. Does it stay running? If it does not stay running, pull the plugs ad turn the bike over. Are you getting a good continus spark? What color are the plugs?
Mike

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I tried the starting fluid but it didn't make a difference.  Checked the plugs for spark and both had a continous spark when I turned the engine over.  Took the carb apart again and blew air through all the passages.  Removed the jets to be certain they were clear.  I put the carb back on the bike and still the same thing, starts and dies.  The plugs were dark and had quite a bit gas on them.  I tried to start the bike without the accelerator pump and it would start but not as strong. I did notice this time that the O-ring was missing from the ejector nozzle (not sure how long this has been gone).  Anyway, any suggestions are appreciated.

Glen

Answer
Since the bike didnt stay running with the starting fluid then it sounds like you have a ignition problem. If you were having a gas problem the bike would still run with a shot of starting fluid. You should chack your wires going to the ignition to make sure you didnt leave one loose or one is shorting out
Good luck and happy riding
Mike