TOPIC:

I have a 78 KZ650 and I rode it all last summer but I'm having trouble getting it started to drive it to the storage site. I pulled the plugs, cleaned them up, checked to see if I'm getting spark (they are), and I'm still not starting. Carbs were cleaned in AUG and I'm wondering if I can use a starting agent like ether or starting fluid? Please help me because its prolly going to be the last good day here in Michigan.

Are you getting fuel? Can you drop the float bowls and see if the needle valves are allowing the bowls to fill up?

"Carbs cleaned in August" I'll bet the problem's related to the carb cleaning.

Good Luck
KZCSI

Are you using the Choke?

rstnick wrote:

Are you using the Choke?

I was. Should I be using it? I was told too much choke is bad.

The carbs on your bike require a richer air/fuel mix in order to start than is needed once the bike is warmed up. Put the bike on full choke and don't twist the throttle as that only floods the carbs. Hit the starter button briefly and then let off. Repeat till it starts. Once the bike starts, allow the bike to warm FULLY before setting the idle. If the bike still doesn't start, the cleaning was inadquate. The choke system and pilot system need to be cleaned. Also, if you have mucked with the factory airbox/filter and/or pipes, the mixture will likely be somewhat leaner than when it came from the factory and the bike will be even harder to start than it should be. Last, you can be getting arcing in the plug caps. Try spraying inside the plug caps with contact cleaner and then put a dab of dielectic grease in there. This eliminates the moisture which causes shorting and hard starting.

Hey guys thanks. Got it started and put away in storage. My dad has a heated garage and he can start it every week when he lets his Goldwing run. Thanks again guys.