Hey guys, I picked up a 03 400ex a couple weeks ago. Took it out last weekend and ran pretty good. Stalled here or there and had to hit the starter a couple times to get it going again. Pressure washed it and when I went to pull it off the trailer it wouldn't start. Nothing, clicked a few times, then started. Did this a couple times that night. The next day it wouldn't start at all - just clicks. Since then I've checked the valves, replaced the starter motor, and spark plug. Battery is fairly new, connections all seem fine... am I missing something obvious??

 

Anyone?!?! I changed the oil also, which had no viscosity to it, and crank rotates so I don't think anything is locked up..

Clicks when I hit the button but when I jump the poles it will turn over, but not start.

Thoughts or advice would be much appreciated!!

 

First thing I would do is try to push/pull start it. If it's starts right up I'd check to see if it's the correct battery then replace or charge it.

 

I had the same issue with mine, it would start most of the time but other times it would just click. The battery was starting to get a little weak and ever since I replaced it its been fine ever since. Also mine would do the click every time I would wash it. I'd try charging the battery first and see if it'll start. Or try connecting one of those jump packs to it and see if it does it. When you say yours is clicking is it clicking at the solenoid or somewhere else?

 

If the solenoid is clicking and the power is not getting to the starter it is a faulty solenoid or one of the main leads loose. A low battery makes the solenoid buzz, with a faulty starter switch you don't get the click.

 

Thanks for the input everyone.

Update:
Put the muffler back on and jumping the poles it started right up. Guess it needed the back pressure? So I guess the solenoid is shot. I was under the impression if it clicked it was fine..
After the quad started up and ran for a few seconds there was a pop, engine died, and smoke came out of the carb tube in the airbox!!!?? Started right back up jumping the poles thought. Could this be water in the engine?