QuestionWhen I kick start the bike it doesn't seem to turn over. I do not hear anything that sounds like the piston is moving, and there is a lot of friction while moving the kick starter.
AnswerJohn, start by removing the valve cover cap and the spark plug. Kick it over and watch the valve open/close and listen to the piston going up and down. If that isn't happening, then it may be that the automatic clutch is out of adjustment.
Loosen the locknut on the right side of the engine cover and turn the adjustment screw counter-clockwise until it stops and then back it off about 1/8 turn.
It may be that the clutch assembly needs an overhaul, as the plates can swell up and fail to engage/disengage properly.
If you get it to spin over, see if you can test the compression being generated. Do check the valve clearances for the necessary .002" clearance (compression stroke T mark on the flywheel). It needs at least 100 psi to run at all.
I am hoping that the piston hasn't been stuck in the cylinder bore for a long time causing rust and corrosion to damage the piston and cylinder.
Note that this bike has a battery powered ignition system. It needs a fully charged 6v battery in the circuit to run properly and to protect the light bulbs from getting blown out from overcharging.
Bill Silver
