Predator 212cc Wont Start

Summary

In this video, the host troubleshoots a kayak engine that won't start, suspecting fuel left in the carburetor as the culprit. After confirming spark and compression, he disassembles the carburetor, cleans the parts, and highlights the importance of the float mechanism. Following reassembly, he successfully fires up the engine, emphasizing proper fuel shut-off procedures for storage. The host shares practical tips for maintaining carbureted engines to prevent future issues, preparing for an upcoming kayaking trip.

Takeaways

• 😀 The kayak's engine wouldn't start due to fuel left in the carburetor.
• 🔧 Spark and compression were confirmed before further troubleshooting.
• 🚫 The fuel to the carburetor was shut off to prevent flooding during testing.
• 🧼 Cleaning the carburetor is crucial, as debris can clog it and affect performance.
• 🔍 The emulsion tube and float pin were checked to ensure proper function.
• 💧 Avoid using water for cleaning; appropriate solvents should be used instead.
• ⚙️ The float pin regulates fuel flow into the carburetor and must move freely.
• ✅ After cleaning and reassembling, the engine successfully started.
• 📝 Always shut off fuel and let the engine idle before storage to prevent issues.
• 🌊 The owner hopes to take the kayak out for a trip after the repairs.

Q & A

What issue is the narrator facing with the kayak?

The kayak won't start, likely due to fuel left in the engine from the last use.

What initial steps does the narrator take to diagnose the problem?

They plan to leave the fuel shut off to the carburetor and use brake cleaner starting fluid to see if the engine turns over.

What was observed when the fuel was turned on previously?

Fuel was pouring out of the intake, indicating a potential flooding issue.

What component does the narrator suspect might be causing the problem?

The narrator suspects the carburetor is the issue due to the flooding and junk in the bowl.

What does the narrator find inside the carburetor during disassembly?

They find an emulsion tube and notice it's still pretty clear, but there could be clogging from junk.

What maintenance tip does the narrator emphasize for carbureted engines?

They emphasize shutting off the fuel and letting the engine idle until it stops before storing it.

What happens after the narrator reassembles the carburetor?

After reassembly and turning on the fuel, the kayak starts up successfully.

Why is it important for the float pin to move freely?

The float pin regulates fuel flow to the carburetor, ensuring proper operation.

How does the narrator feel about the amount of work required to fix the issue?

They are relieved that it wasn't too much work to get the kayak running again.

What lesson does the narrator learn from this experience?

They learn the importance of proper fuel management when storing carbureted engines.