I need help...I cannot get my machine started. It is electric start, but I dont have the key anymore, so I pull start it. Do you still need the battery in proper operation for it to run?

 

shouldn't, you do need the key turned on and the power switch on for it to start. thats how it is on my 96 tb and probably the same on yours. you probably need the key though.

 

as long as the charging system is working it should start dead battery or not. give it some choke (make sure key is on) and pull that thing, also check for fouled plug. good luck! I have an 88 trailboss I totally rebuilt last year.
dave

 

it needs a complete circuit to run, meaning battery need to be in even if dead, and key needs to be on, you may have to hotwire it if you have lost the key or order a new key,

 

I got it running, but it doesnt want to stay running. I changed the spark plug, and put in some gas cleaner. But it starts and then runs rough, then dies. then I cant get it going again, almost like it flooded.

I think I give up and need to take it to a professional!

 

clean the carb