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BOUGHT AN OLD BIKE WHERE SHOULD I START???
You found a great deal at a garage sale. The bike you bought looks pretty good but you were told it hasn't run in 12 years. What should you do? The first thing is try to get as much information on the bike that you bought. Next, you would take a closer look at the bike to see what's broken or not functioning. Once you know whats wrong on the outside, you should look on the inside. If the bike has not run for a very long period, your best bet is to clean and check the engine before trying to start it. Below is a basic list of how go through the engine. Note: If you don't have any experience working on engines I advise you to bring it in to a qualified shop. It will save you alot more money than you attempting to fix something and possibly srewing up. Take my word for that.
1) Remove the spark plug but don't disconnect the wire. Rest the plug on the
cylinder head and slowly crank the engine to see if there is a spark. If there is a
spark, your in luck but buy a new spark plug even if it looks good. If there is no
spark, try another spark plug in case this one is no good. If this is still no good
you will have to go further. Check points etc. Note: If the bike has a key
ignition don't forget to turn it on.
2) If you have a 2-stroke engine like on a moped or scooter, it would be a good
idea to remove the cylinder head and muffler to see if there is carbon build up
on the piston and at the exaust port. If there is, remove the carbon on the piston
and cylinder head with a steel brush being carefull not to make heavy scratches
allowing the carbon to build up again quickly. In the port area with a small file
remove the carbon as well. Inspect the muffler and clean. Once this is done
assemble back the cylinder head, plug and muffler.
3) Next remove the air filter and replace it with a new one. It doesn't pay to clean it.
4) Inspect the gas line and oil line if it is a 2-stroke with auto oil mix. If the lines are
cracked or hard, replace them. Caution: If your changing the oil line for the
auto oil mix you must bleed the system after. Do not change this line unless you
have experience.
5) Clean the carb. If you don't have a manual of the bike with the carb settings, I
suggest you get a paper and pencil. The reason is, to take note of the idle screw
and air screw positions. How to do this is, turn the screw clockwise
until it is closed. DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN OR YOU WILL RUIN THE SEAT.
Count how many turns and mark them down so you can adjust the screw settings
as it was before. Now take apart the carb. Be sure you are working in a clean
area. With carb. cleaner spray all round, inside and outside and wipe dry. Next
remove the jet if possible. Spray and aim it at a light to see if you can see
through. Put back the jet and now inspect the gasket. If the gasket is damaged
replace it. Re-assemble the carb. and set the idle screw and air screw to the
positions you had marked down. Mount the carb. on the engine and attach the
hoses.
6) One last item to check for. Check inside the gas tank to see if there is rust or
dirt. If there is dirt rinse it out with fresh gas or paint thinner. If there is a gas line
filter replace it.
7) Finally!!! Fill up the gas tank with gas. It might take a few shots berfore you will
hear the first sign of life. Good luck and safe riding!!!!