no start :(

[Souske]

Hello GSr,

Bike was running fine until two weeks ago, whe I decided to go through the brakes. While it was down for maintenance, I replaced the valve cover gasket, as it was leaking, and checked the valves. #2 exhaust needed loosening up a hair, but all others were still in spec, as I set them 2000 mi ago.

Spark on all 4

Did a compression test: 80, 110, 120, 125

Tried a bit of oil in the #1 cyl with no effect

Did a valve on cyl 1 give up the fight?

[jbs80106]

A bit more info needed perhaps? Does it turn over? Fuel flowing to the carbs? You got spark so does it even try to start at all?

Interesting.....

[Souske]

Cranks, but won't kick. I have my fuel IV (modified radiator overflow tank) on there now.
23,356 miles.
It sounded like it wanted to kick a couple times, but the battery is weak from repeated cranking attempts. Charging now.

[koolaid_kid]

Most likely the voltage is too low at the coils for them to spark. Test again with a fully charged battery and report back.

[elrico]

After about 3 plus days and /or more of GS bike sitting /idle,I must remember to turn petcock to prime position to help ensure best start up senario.When doing more involved downtime work ,very easy to forget to maybe to do that..and also forget to turn petcock back to on position.Found out about leaving it on prime other day as I opened door to garage:GAS Fumes Galore.not good,liquid gas ,all over floor,just saying things get by sometimes.

[BassCliff]

Hi,

Since you're using an auxiliary tank, did you plug the vacuum line to the carbs? I use a golf tee.






Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

[Souske]

Basscliff, didnt even think about plugging that vacuum leak, thanks!

Got the bike running again, the battery had died again, it would show 12.6 volts, but drop quickly as soon as a load was applied.

Thanks for all the help GSr!