Stuttering/powerloss

I have a 1984 750 LTD; ZN750A2.
It started losing power while cruising, and backfiring.
This happened a few times but would mysteriously clear up on it's own.
Last ride it started to break down severely and sounded like it was running on only a couple of cylinders. It would not even stay idling; had to crack the choke a tad to keep it going even with the engine hot.
I now can't get it started at all. Turns over fine but doesn't even kick. Tried fresh gas.
Any suggestions appreciated.

Jav

Post edited by: jjavman, at: 2007/12/18 21:24

Have you pulled and grounded a plug to see if you have strong spark?

What speed and rpm was this happening at ?
If not electrical then some thoughts would be that if say the stuttering was happening in the 2,500 - 3,000rpm range then perhaps look for dirt in the pilot jet or transition hole area. I have had something similar with a badly seating float needle valve with consequent flooding of the engine.

Are the plugs wet with gas when you turn it over ?
Do you have fuel filter ?
Is the gas flowing ? Perhaps open the drain screw on each float bowl and see if you have gas come out ?

The backfiring has me puzzled though:unsure:

Would also check valve clearances (and spark as already suggested).

I think jr, hit on it, sounds like a fuel problem, also pull the line off the petcock and see if fuel is flowing from there. there is a screen in the tank that can get dirty

sounds like either you ran out of gas or the key switch is on the fritz.. but I'd look the bike over carefully. Start by pulling the spark plugs and get a visual on the spark event first if no spark then check the wiring..get spark.. then move on to fuel.. etc..

only 3 issues to make it run or not run
1. fuel??
2. spark??
3. compression???

If the choke helped it i would say its a fuel problem.make sure the tank vent in the cap is working correctly.