Fuel switch is in the on position and the kill switch was not switched off. I just checked spark again and it seems a bit erractic this time. I am not getting a steady spark as the engine cranks. I put in a brand new plug and that didn't help.

 

Have you tried the pull starter? Humour me, there is a difference in starting sometimes.

 

Also, close the gap up a few thousands and try the starter. On the plug that is.

 

SOunds like the plug is carbon fouled, Mine did this in the first 60 miles 2 times, the plug looked fine but it wasnt, use a wire brush on the plug electrode and clean it off, then try it again, Also make sure the choke isnt out any at all

 

another thing you might want to check is the connection between the top of the plug and the metal "catch" inside the plug boot. my hawkeye was running like dog dookie, i went to check the plug and noticed that the boot was junk.. the boot just un-screws from the plug wire.

 

Check the build date on yours, if it was prior to May/2006 (I believe that was the date) the jetting needs to be changed. You need a smaller main jet for sure.

After that, put a new spark plug in and try it again. You might give it a shot or two of starting fluid to help it out. Good luck.

 

All good suggestions. RickeyP, I like the idea about the choke being on slightly. Turn the rubber grommet under the choke **** 1/2-3/4 turn counterclockwise and push the choke down. Try starting again.

 

i think you just need to get her going and broke in properly.had some same probs.starting,quitting etc...you need to get the throttle cable and idle screw adjusted properly to get her going.let the idle screw out quite a ways then tighten the throttle cable so there is just a little give to the thumb lever.you may need the pull start if your battery has gotten low from trying to start her so much.once she is going adjust the idle down so you can shift easily and get her broke in.don't push the engine to hard.once the engine is broke in you will find you can back off on the idle (tighte)and loosen up on the throttle cable with good results.these adjustments should be checked pre ride every time for best carb\engine performance.

 

kowallarry, how did you turn out? did you get it running?

 

ok, what will it act like if the choke is slightly on, just curious? is there any way to "calibrate" the NO CHOKE position?