More starting questions

tshort · New Member Joined: May 12, 2007 Posts: 7

A while back I posted about difficulties with starting my '82 special when it has been sitting for a while (like overnight +). It will not start with the starter unless I hit it with some starting fluid, and even then is a little tough. Once it has run, it starts immediately - as soon as I touch the starter.
I had figured based on advice from the forums, etc., that it was a carb problem, and that I would take down and go thru the carbs over the winter - too much fun riding now.

But I recently figured out that it will start immediately on the first kick if I use the kick starter when it is cold. The starter cranks and cranks when cold, but if I kick it, it turns right over and runs.

Thoughts?

T.

xsjohn · Posted: August 20, 2007, 6:45 pm Post subject: Re: More starting questions

Battery will cause all those things you described........No cranking power...There is no spark while the starter is being used......I have had new batteries that weren't worth a crap and did that.......

John

jayel · Posted: August 20, 2007, 8:27 pm Post subject: Re: More starting questions

have your battery load tested at a auto supply but I agree with john your battery is the most likely fault

sldhd7 · Posted: August 20, 2007, 8:59 pm Post subject: Re: More starting questions

I have read that most XS650's have this problem. The starter is drawing so much current when the motor is cold that it does leave much for the coil. So you end up with a slow turning engine and a weak spark, not a good combo for first starts. The tell tale sign is when it'll start first kick when its cold. If its possible get a higher quality battery with higher cold cranking amps.
My stater relay is bad on my bike so I am always kicking it, but it starts every time!

INXS650 · 650Rider Supporter Joined: Mar 22, 2007 Posts: 645

Only use the starter if I stall it at a light. Rest of the time, kicking it works best. Even with a good battery, mine turns slow, and rattles when I am done.

tshort · New Member Joined: May 12, 2007 Posts: 7

Cool - thanks for the info.
Since I can kick start it so easily I'll hold off on a new battery for now - it is less than a year old.

T.

Jake68 · 650Rider Supporter Joined: Mar 23, 2007 Posts: 841

I used electronic ignition. It solves all starting problems forever.
I know its an expensive option, but man does it work. Even with a half dead battery using the starter the spark is thick and blue..

xsjohn · Posted: August 21, 2007, 2:19 pm Post subject: Re: More starting questions

Charge the battery once in a while.......

John

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