LCGB Forums

I just pulled a Lambretta out of storage after a year and it's not starting. It has spark and is getting fuel but won't kick over. So far I've done the following:

-replaced CDI
-replaced HT lead and cap
-replaced carb and jetted to spec
-replaced flywheel (SIL for balanced BGM)
-drained fuel and refilled with fresh
-checked choke is seating correctly
-took off fuel cap (no vapor lock)
-isolated the ignition switch (green wire)
-checked compression (good)
-performed a leak down test (holding air)

Before I annoy a friend, what else should I check LT coil? Air gap on flywheel? I'm a jet lagged wreck so I'm sure I've overlooked several things.

Thats quite a list so far.

- is the plug wet when you have checked it after kicking it over ?
- checked all your other connections inc regulator and earths
- Throttle cable not being held / stuck somehow
- should start regardless - even if timing is wrong
- its basic - but have you tried some easy start down plug &/or mouth of carb - just to get it to fire
- checked exhaust not blocked.

Thanks for the prompt response! In answer to your questions:

-the plug is wet after kicking over
-regulator connections are fine as is the earth to the flywheel cowl/mag housing
-throttle cable is opening slide easily---I checked this several times
-I tried easy start several times, but forgot to mention in the original post.

I've not checked the exhaust. Will do tomorrow. Anything else I should check?

I suppose there's a chance your rings could have gummed up and stuck after parking it up.

Rich'

Rich Oswald wrote:I suppose there's a chance your rings could have gummed up and stuck after parking it up.

Interesting point. I performed a compression test as I though the same, but discounted it after a high reading on the gauge after a few kicks.

I would put the flywheel that you have taken off ,back on and give it a try.
It's remotely possible that the pick up height is not compatible with the BGM flywheel and needs adjusting.
Check the outputs of the stator with a ohms meter,although not conclusive it's a good start.

Finger in suppressor cap to confirm spark.....painful but foolproof

duncan1958 wrote:I would put the flywheel that you have taken off ,back on and give it a try.
It's remotely possible that the pick up height is not compatible with the BGM flywheel and needs adjusting.
Check the outputs of the stator with a ohms meter,although not conclusive it's a good start.

Thank you! Will do. Appreciate all the recommendations.

MickYork wrote:Finger in suppressor cap to confirm spark.....painful but foolproof

I can see it sparking, don't know if I need to 'confirm' it

Old fuel ?. I have a four stroke single which, if left for long periods, will will only start if I empty the fuel bowl.

Is it flooded?

Did you try fuel and choke off and hold it flat out and kick it or push it in second gear ?

any progress ?

- as above - check its not flooded. Clear the barrel, dont turn fuel back on and then try easy start again
- Amazed that nothing happens with easy start - any sort of spark should make it at least do something - even a splutter
- whipping the exhaust off should give you access for a partial look at the state of the rings
- Maybe swap the stator for a known good one - even if yours is sparking
- Checked plug gap

"It's remotely possible that the pick up height is not compatible with the BGM flywheel and needs adjusting"

+1

could still spark with low stator readings bud

Managed to get it started and running, but still none the wiser of what was the exact cause.

My good friend (and mentor extraordinaire) and I spent some time going through everything yesterday. First thing we checked was the stator and readings were completely fine. I believe it was a combination of choke cable sticking occasionally and possibly the 17°ignition timing making it hard to start.

It's a very mild tune Suzuki 185, Clubman, TM24 and now it's running so I can put some klicks on it and see if I can work out the exact issue.

Huge thanks for all the help and advice!