Ok guys I have a 06 Kodiak that just won't start. It turns over fine and after about 4 or 5 attempts it makes a HUGE backfire. I've checked the airbox and its fine, drained the carb bowl, and replaced the spark plug. I can remove the spark plug and ground it and it sparks like crazy. I'm pretty sure its getting gas because I smell it everywhere. I do ride this thing weekly and its only been sitting for a day. It ran fine 2 days ago. Any ideas before I have to take it to a dealer????

 

Weird, I had sort of the same thing happen to my '06 Outlander. It would turn over like crazy but would'nt fire, even after running fine the day before, turns out it was a fouled plug because the carb was way too rich. I know nothing about carbs so I took it to the dealer for a quick carb adjustment, now everything is fine.

Got to hate these dumb little problems, but it's probably no big deal -- good luck!

 

I pulled the air box off and tried to fire it again. All I get is turning over like crazy and then a puff of smoke out of the carb. I know its getting a spark and I know its getting gas. I can smell gas like crazy when I'm trying to start it. Also when I pull the plug out its wet with gas. I've got 3 different plugs that I've been rotating but even with too much gas it should at least start or even act like its gonna start.

 

I guess if it were me I would just take to the dealer before you lose your mind, they will have it going in no time.

 

It keeps backfiring out of the carb. Almost like its out of time. I didn't think that was possible but thats what it seems like. I hate to take it to a dealer but I guess I have no choice.

 

Sounds like a timing problem.

 

i have three possible solutions. 1: timing like stated above 2:valves need adjusting 3: look on the carb were the boot connects to the head. On my 250 beartracker that slips off and then wont run. You might have to get another one but try crancking and put ur hand therre to feel for air.

 

I don't think its the boot because when i'm turning the motor over I can see the suction created between the motor and the carb.

 

Most likely the thing is too lean. Back fire out the carb is symptom of lean. Put the air filter and air box and air box lid back on, and try again.
Instead of cranking away on the starter, try bump starting it, have someone tow it, and have the key on in high. If its posible for it to start it will. You dont need to go faster than 10 mph.

 

You mentioned fuel; you've mentioned spark; but I don't see anything about compression. Check it.

Another thing to check is the oil. Take the dip stick out and smell the oil. Does it smell like raw fuel? If so, the float might have stuck and ran a lot of fuel into the engine.

BTW; just don't use the old plug to check for spark. Buy a new one.