Electric Start Problem

tdorty · #1 (**permalink**) 03-18-2005, 06:24 PM

Hi All,

I am a newbee to this web site as well as the ATV world. I need your ideas on what to troubleshoot on my 1985 Yamaha YFM200 MOTO 4.
The problem is that it starts every time using the recoil rope, but seldomly using the electric starter. The starter turns over the engine but does not what to start. Sometimes after the motor has run for a while, it will start with the electric. I get fuel to the carb, the spark seams to be weak when the electric is used. The battery is new, holds a charge etc. I do not understand the CDI system, or if it has anything to do with this problem.
I have owned it 2-years now and when I first purchased it the electric start worked. I have cleaned and pampered this machine, I am not sure what has happened, your help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Tim

rpyfz450 · #2 (**permalink**) 03-18-2005, 06:52 PM

I would suspect the battery. It might have enough current to turn the starter, but not enough voltage to light up the CDI.

EdATV · #3 (**permalink**) 03-18-2005, 07:02 PM

i had a similar problem once, it turned out to be the coil.

Snafoow · #4 (**permalink**) 03-19-2005, 03:49 AM

Do you think the starter is spinning the engine over fast enough for it to start?

Have you Checked the voltage at the starter while cranking the engine? Below 9 volts I would think is no good.

I also would clean and check all ground connections to the frame, battery, starter, and engine

tdorty · #5 (**permalink**) 03-21-2005, 06:16 PM

Thanks for the help everyone. Possibly this next weekend I will apply your suggestions.

The battery was brand new when I purchased the ATV, and turns over the engine fine.
Even when I have a battery charger on and connected to this battery it will not start.
I have cleaned all connections, but will check again.

Tdorty