650/X-2 Engine runs great! only problem is starting

C

CJ's 650

Location
NY
so i just finished my 650sx build (new paint job, some AM parts). right before i tore it down i noticed that the primer kit was leaking out onto my dashboard. finally as i got down to the little odds and ends I installed the new primer. I wasnt expecting such high quality since it was only $10 but this one wont pump at all. to start the engine i pull off the air filter (k&n) and pour a bit of gas down the carb (mikuni). it runs great after this. i can see gas in the primer tubes but it just wont flow. any thoughts? I know that the ski is 25 years old but ya know.. it should'nt be that much of a hassle to start! with my newer skis its push the button and go!

any helps is appreciated :)
 
Vumad

Vumad

Super Hero, with a cape!
Location
St. Pete, FL
If it starts right away when pouring gas in the carbs and your primer system isn't pumping fuel, that is quite obviously the problem.

Check the primer system for air leaks. Make sure you have a petcock that allows you to turn off the line that the primer is hooked to or you will pull air. Be sure if you have the primer on primary (it should be on reserve unless you don't have a petcock) that you have enough fuel in the tank. You can hook a piece of fuel line to the primer pump and stick that in the gas can to see if the pump is working.
 
C

CJ's 650

Location
NY
Not enough gas is probably the problem. I have less than a quarter tank right now. Just didn't bother filling it up yet because I will have to drain it before it goes on my car carrier. I had started it on reserve since there was so little gas and I believe my primer is hooked to the fuel line. Tomorrow ill put the line in a gas tank to confirm that this is the problem.

Thanks for pointing this out. I think I've been so excited about getting back on the water that j jumped to conclusion and thought my primer was broken! Will post results tomorrow
 
Vumad

Vumad

Super Hero, with a cape!
Location
St. Pete, FL
If you have a petcock, you should have your primer connected to your reserve line. Pump the primer with the fuel set to on, then start the ski with the fuel set to reserve. The only reason to have the primer on the primary line is if you do not have a petcock. If such is the case, you can actually cut the primary pick up tube in the middle, and use a piece of hose and 2 hose clamps to extend the primary fuel pickup to the bottom of the tank. personally, I would not cut it, since you can just add fuel to start it, and I also try to run a petcock on my skis.
 
C

CJ's 650

Location
NY
i should have time to look at the ski within the next hour or so.

i currently dont have a petcock but whats the benifit of using one?
 
B

Bob Gruen

Location
Atlanta, Ga
The petcock is the fuel selector valve: on and reserve. The primer should be tapped into the reserve line as that is the last line to go dead when your tank runs empty.
 
iangdesign

iangdesign

Cats, lots of cats!
Location
United States
Some primer switches just suck! I bought a new one for my SJ and it never worked right. Luckily on my SJ the stock airbox has a flap to pour a little fuel down the gullet.

The one on my X2 has worked for years with no issues. Bought them both from the same dealer.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top Bottom