Hello my name is John and I am new to the forums. I was wondering if someone might be able to help me. I bought a 86 honda trx250 for my father because he didn't want anything fast and wanting a atv pretty bad to do chores with so I picked up this beauty for $200. I rebuilt the carb and got it running.. but it will only start by kick start the starter drags and doesn't spin fast enough to get it started. Also after he rode it around the other day for about 30 minutes I hopped on it later on that day and made it about 200ft because I heard a pop and it died.. But if I wait awhile and change the spark plug it will run again? It will run and idle fine so I don't really think its getting too much fuel and I am hoping someone can shed some light on this.
Thanks,
John

 

What did the spark plug look like when you pulled it? Have you checked the valve clearence?

 

it sparkplug almost seems as if it was fouled and no I have not checked the valve clearence I do not know how to.. but it will run fine up until that point it idles and runs fine not like its being flooded or too lean or anything So I do not understand?

 

but the spark plug was a little black because i flooded it a few times on accident and heated the spark plug up and put it back in

 

That does seem odd. When the valves are out of adjustment somtimes they can cause problems with a cold start or when the engine is good and warmed up. But I could'nt say without it being in front of me. A buddy of mine was having issues with his foreman once warmed up and after a valve adjustment problem solved. Might be your problem might not?

 

it was warm when I did it too I was trying to cool it down some because my dad rides slower than time.. lol and it was pretty warm but none of the gauges or anything were on and thats when it happens.. How could I go about adjusting the valves?

 

Pretty simple. Roll the engine over to top dead center pull the valve cover or inspection plugs which ever your engine has. Using a feeler guage determine if the valve is set to tight or loose. Refer to a service manual for the proper specs on your machine. Sorry if this is a little vague. I'm better at showing how to vs. typing how to. Try looking up honda valve adjustment on youtube maybe you'll find a video that'll give you an idea of what I'm talking about.