The sportsman will not start for me. It turns over no problem using the starter. I’ll crank it for a while then eventually make a loud pop noise. The air seems to come through the carb.

i got it to run briefly yesterday using starter fluid. That was short lived. I could not get it to start after that using starter fluid.

one weird thing i noticed. After trying to start it for a while using the start button the engine just wouldn’t move. I forgives this was due to me drawing on the battery. So i went to use the pull start. It was solid, would not move. After a decent amount of time passes i use the cord and it moves again.

-I checked compression,80 psi.
-it has a spark, replaced the spark plug
-i checked fuel flow. It’s not a heavy flow but it’s moving the gas. I cleaned the fuel pump. Just dusty no mud.
-i removed and cleaned the carb.
-I removed and cleaned the starter. One of the brushes was stuck.
-battery is good. About a year old.
-Air-filter is nice and clean
-new gas
-i pulled the valve cover off. Everything moves, no metal or grinding noise
-i checked the fly wheel and it’s proper mounted (no sheared key)
I’m about to remove the engine and start looking inside. Any help would be greatly appreciated!!

I was starting to look into the timing. With worn lobrs would mean cam replacement?

Thank you for the info. I’m gonna get the motor out today and peel it apart.

Any recommendations for a good engine kit ?? Other than Polaris !

Ok, I took it apart and measured the lobes. They are all with in spec.
I noticed heavy carbon on the piston head and cylinder head. I’m assuming it’s normal but figured i would mention it.

Should i check anything else prior to putting it back together.