My old 96 Sportsman 500 has developed a problem and I’m at a loss as to what’s wrong. Have tried 3 different carbs and the problem persist.

It is hard to start but will with the choke on. If you turn the choke off or try to throttle up it dies. I can make it idle faster by turning the idle screw up but if the throttle is opened or the choke open it dies. It has a consistent spark but is more yellow then blue.

So it’s getting plenty gas and has a spark but won’t run off idle and dies quite a bit when just idling with the choke on. I’m leaning toward it being an electrical problem and would appreciate some suggestions from you fellas in the know. Thanks in advance to those who respond.

 

Check your valve lash, and or if the exhaust lobe is gone. Doc

 

I had a similar problem with my '96 shortly after I got it, and it turned out to be the clamp holding the intake tube (front of carb) to the engine was loose, causing it to suck massive amounts of air. Tightened up the clamp and all is well. It was exhibiting similar problems to yours, but the clamp fixed it all.

Here's hoping your problem is equally as simple!

-J

 

ditto on the cam lobe

 

I put a new clamp on the intake tube at the carb as the old one was bent and there is some improvement but it still doesn’t run right. Will check the valves tomorrow. Sure hope the cam isn’t screwed up. Thanks for the help.

 

spray carb cleaner around intake boot, if engine speeds up the boot is cracked and sucking air.

 

Checking the valve lash is as easy as pulling the plastics and tank. Then the valve cover, this is something that is regular maintenance anyways. Do it