I'm new to this forum so apologies if I am asking a redundant question. My Daddy died in March and left me (his little GIRL) with 4 antique tractors, 2 Kubotas, and about the fussiest Honda TRX400 four-wheeler I have ever seen. It's the only thing I can't get to run. It has been sitting for almost a year now but has always been tough to start. First, the battery wouldn't hold a charge, so I replaced it. I drained the gas and put in some fresh, along with some Sea Foam motor treatment that my Honda dealer suggested. It is sparking, but I cleaned the spark plug anyway. Do I need to clean the carburetor next? If so, any special instructions? This is one thing Daddy didn't teach me to do and the service manual is not an easy read. Also, there is a little spring-like button under the carburetor....I can't figure out what it's for, either. Please don't throw your hands up and tell me to take it to a repairman like most people do because I am a girl! My Daddy was my best friend and this is what he liked to do, so I learned it and learned to love it because I liked spending time with him. Thanks!

 

Try cleaning the carb as you mentioned.. Its not very hard. There should be some videos on Youtube that can show you how to do it, all carbs are pretty much the same concept. Also are you using the choke when trying to start your ATV? Also make sure your fuel switch is turned to the "on" position, and not the "off" position. Lets try and eliminate the easy stuff first.

 

I am using the choke, do have the fuel on...you're right...sometimes it's the little things that get us. I did learn that instead of just turning it off after using it to turn the fuel switch off and run the fuel out. Makes sense, it's how I do my antique John Deere tractors. Thanks for the youtube idea. I will check it out and let you know. I am almost 100% positive that this is the problem....fingers crossed!

 

Keep us updated, if you have another question you can PM me on here.