are you using the choke at all? if its nonEFI use full choke when you start it, then slowly wien it off the choke

 

I do use the choke at times when it's cold. On my 06 there also is a cold star "PLUNGER" on the carb but, I don't use it because it starts all the time when I use the choke.

 

The decomressor is built onto the camshaft and at low rpms catches the exhaust valve lifter bucket to relieve compression for start-up. When this assembly gets defective, it will not relieve compression as it sticks and will not contact the exhaust valve bucket. Cold weather issues definately tell me this is hanging up, if the problem is noted more in lower temps.
Yes, when it does this pull the spark plug. If the engine spins over, you found the problem.

----- Gimpster -----

 

is pulling the cam a tricky job? - I have a Honda service manual and have worked on lots of car engines but don't want to get too deep into this engine if it requires special tools or precise adjustments.
It sounds like it may be expensive to have a dealer do the work. Does the camshaft itself need replacing or just the decompression assembly parts?

 

Decompressor is not sold seperate from the cam.
First time changeing one will take some time.
One thing I do that it does not say in the service manual, once the cam is installed, is to fill the cam tray with oil.

If you decide to tackle the project yourself, I will give you my cell phone number in case you have issues or need advice.

I've done a number of these over the years (Worked for Honda dealers since '86)
Opened my own shop in May.

I can help you out with that cold start issue also

----- Gimpster -----

 

Gimpster,
How much would a dealer charge for this job?

 

Thanks for everyone's suggestion on my Rubicon start problem - I am now waiting for the weather to get colder and try out a few of the suggestions - this forum has been very helpful

 

my 06 had bad starting also. do your ground checks and it'll start good after that.no matter how cold

 

One thing i would do is try the simple stuff first. Take the plug out and if it turns over then it might be the compression issue, im not very framiliar with that. If you are still haveing the problem, before checking all your grounds and wiring i would hook a set of booster cables to another bike or a car. Ground your (-), the black wire, and Touch the Red wire on the starter with the (+) of the booster cables. If your started turns over fine thenyour wiring or your battery is bad. If not, then perhaps the brushes in your starter are bad.