97 Yamaha Badger - Won't Start!!!
 

Hey, can anyone out there help me? I'm at my wit's end with this stupid machine! I've pulled apart the carb and thoroughly cleaned it out, checked the fuel cock, replaced the spark plug, and have good spark. I've replaced the gas, and have it hooked to a battery jumper. The engine turns over, but will not start. I can't get it to push start either. Anyone have any ideas on what to try next? It ran when we parked it for the winter, last fall. I've read that maybe I need to adjust the valves? Anyone know how I should go about that? Also, I have 2 of them, the other one starts right up, but doesn't run very well, almost like a car that the timing is off on. I've done all the same things to it. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, Megan.

Ohh yeah, I was also told that if I pull the spark plug, I can test whether or not there is compression by sticking my thumb over the hole. There's good compression.

you need to check your valves. these are really bad about tightening up.

I got the same exact issue. Tight valves will keep an engine from starting?

Does your bikes have a starter recoil??? If so see that you can pull that rope without being pulled out of your hand. If it does snap from your hand then your valves need adjusting. I'm not sure about the lash between the valves on your 97 model.