Question : My engine cranks all right. But why
won’t it start up ?
Answer : Think twice. Are
you following the exact starting procedure given in your owner’s manual? Next,
pin down the troubles area checking these possibilities: (1)gasoline, (2)spark,
and (3)air-gasoline ratio
1. First
make sure you have gasoline in the tank. If that’s not the problem, maybe you
have flooded the engine. Hold the gas pedal to the floor for 10 seconds (do not
pump it) as you crank the engine.
Still
no start? Maybe the problem is a stuck needle valve. tap the carburetor bowl
lightly near the gas line, using pliers or a screwdriver handle. This should
free the valve so you can start. But if nothing has done the trick so far move
to the next step
2. Check
to see if the engine is getting the spark it needs to start. First look for
loose or broken spark plug wires. Fix what you can.
If
the wires look all right, make a detailed check for a spark. Twist one spark
plug boot away from its plug. Push an insulated screwdriver into the boot. Hold
the shank of the screwdriver about 1/8 inch away from a metal engine part. Have
someone crank the engine. (Be sure you keep your hands away from the
screwdriver shank and the wire to avoid shock.) you’ll see a small spark if the
ignition system is working. No spark? Get help. (Caution: if there is any gasoline
on the engine, be sure you let it
evaporate before you try this test.) if you see a spark, you have eliminated
that as a possibility. Move on to the next step.
3. Finally,
fine out if the carburetor is feeding sufficient air and gasoline to the engine.
Remove the top of the air cleaner so you
can see the choke plate. If the plate is stuck open, push it shut (only if the
engine is could) and try to start again.
Still
no start? Hold the chock wide open and peer deep inside as someone else pumps
the gas pedal. (Make sure they don’t crank the engine.) if you can’t see gas
squirting, you need professional help.
