Whenever I try to put the bike in gear, it makes
a "clunk" noise and then just shuts off.
Any suggestions on what the problem could be or where
I might be able to find info. on how to fix the problem?

 

Idling too fast? How does it run in neutral? Does it rev up and sound smooth? Prairie 300s usually start cold instantly w/o any choke at elevations above 3000' and need a little choke at sea level. Is that normal for yours? I'm wondering if it's idling too fast along with some carb issues that aren't noticed until you put a load on it (putting it into gear).

We just need a little more info to take a guess at it.

 

First, thanks for the help.

The bike runs perfect in neutral, is not idling too fast, it does rev up
and sounds smooth, until you put it in gear.

 

No problem on the help. (can't say I've helped much yet!)

I'm still at work and will be home in a couple of hours. I'll get my factory service manual out and see what I can find out. There is something on the left side of the battery compartment on the rear fender...can't remember what it's for. Perhaps there is a connection (or lack thereof!) there somewhere.

Usually when something seems to run ok at idle and then you put it in gear it's a carb issue. Hard to tell here.

Does it die if you put it into reverse also?

I'll get back w/ you in a few hours.

 

Yes, it does shut off when put in reverse.

Thanks again