I have a 2001 Rubicon, if I leave it parked for a couple of weeks, it won't start without having to pump the primer pump. Any way to fix this. [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-confused.gif[/img]

 

Do you shut the gas off? Do you use the choke? Does the temperature seem to effect starting?

 

Makes no difference gas on or off, choke on or off, or temperature. It will eventually start without priming if I turn it over for about 2 minutes.

 

I leave my '02 Rubicon sitting at my cabin in Alaska for months at a time. Each time I leave I put gas stabilizer in the tank, shut off the gas valve, and run all the gas out of the carburator. So far, every time I've gone to start the ATV it fires right up.

 

Its been like this since it was purchased. It wouldn't start on the showroom floor when I purchased it. The salesman said, "It must be out of gas." He put gas in it, pumped the primer and it started just fine. I assumed it was OK. I took it back to the dealership but who wants to leave their bike there for weeks.

 

If I don't use the primer my 02 has to be cranked a long time in freezing temperatures but starts very quickly if the primer is used.In warmer temperatures the primer is not needed.

 

I would check your spark plug gap. If you prime it does it start right up? Or does it still have to crank over a bit? Are you holding the throttle open? Or does that not matter either?

 

If I prime it, it starts instantly. Throttle open or closed, it makes no difference. Its like there is no gas left in the carb. but I never see anything drip. I keep it parked on concrete to notice anything dripping. If I start it every few days it does fine. It will start rite up.

 

Hi krzykjn,

I have a 2001 Rubicon that needs to be cranked several times before it starts. Choke or not it will take 15-20 cranks. If I prime it it will start right away. I just did my valve adjustment and I think it starts a little easier. Also leaving the gas on makes it start a little easier. Once it starts it once it will fire up right away 1 crank. Bugs me because I have a Kodiak and a Recon and they start with 1-2 cranks max. Especially the Yamaha takes 1/2 crank and comes to life. Now the Kodiak takes 5-10 minutes to ride without the choke and the Ruby ready to go in 30seconds.
I have 1100 miles on the Ruby and it still acts the same as if it was new. If you fix it let me know.

Thanks
Marco Polo

Rubicon 500
Kodiak 400
Recon 250

 

Hi. I also have a 2001 Honda Rubicon. I have 167 miles on my machine. I have the same starting problems that you are having.

I will be adjusting the valves tomorrow to see if it gets any better. I am very disappointed with my Rubicon.

My Kawasaki 650 Priaire starts on the first try.

I have not had alot of time to drive my Rubicon since my Wife's mother has been sick with cancer.

If you find any new information on a fix please let me know.


Thanks

Wireman