Alright gentlemen, I need some help. I have just completely restored a 2001 Honda 400ex. I broke it down all the way to the frame/ subframe. I have put a 440 kit in it, and nearly everything on it is aftermarket. It has taken about six months or so, and a little money but she is bad as hell now, and a worthy apponent for anyone on the track....well, if she would start.

About two weeks ago, I started it up for a friend of mine in my garage. I hadn't rode it yet, because at that point, I was still waiting on some parts. However, I had started it many times since I had put the engine back in it, and never had a problem. Anyway, it cranked up and sounded great for about a minute or so, then shut off. I tried to restart it, but it would just turn and turn with no start. When the engine was redone, I replaced the plug and so, I wasn't suspecting that as the problem. I have noticed that it leaks gas if I leave the pet **** on all night, and when I try to start it, sometimes it will leak as well. I cleaned the carburetor the best I know how, and it didn't help... still no start. Thinking maybe the float is sticking?I know plenty about my 440, but not sure how to fix a stuck float (if that is the problem).

Any help will be greatly appreciated. I am anxious to stretch her new legs on the track, but have to iron out this kink first. Thanx.

 

does it have a good battery in it? if you have the money you should put a 450 carb on it ,it worked very well with my 440ex when i had it.

 

check the spark..

 

The fuel leaking is probably just a piece of crud stuck in the float needle/seat area. Focus on that area , when you clean the carb. If the needle is deformed, youll need to replace it.
Its probably flooded, and that killed the spark plug, try a new spark plug first.