Won't fire up

[Redbeard]

Evenin all, tried starting the ST earlier to do an oil and filter change but it won't start. Battery has plenty of power, starter motor spins, plugs are only a few weeks old, fuel tap working, plenty of fuel, carbs have fuel, no apparent blockages...Manual says could be defective starter motor clutch or a loose alternator rotor bolt, would either of these sound likely? Is this common? Was running fine just days ago, has always started 1st or 2nd go. Not sure what else it might be, any help much appreciated.

[Rich]

Does the engine turn over?
Does it start on Kickstart?
Is there a spark at the plugs?

[hillbilly]

any fuel in it,it has been known.

[Al]

Adam you have pm


AL

[Redbeard]

Just going to check spark, theres enough fuel, spins over ok. i'll keep you posted.

[Redbeard]

She lives! Now I'm not sure how but I tried to start it normally again without success. I took the tank off to test spark, held plug to the block and pressed starter, spark was fine and it sounded like it fired. Did the same with a different plug, same response. Put tank back on and 2nd try she spluttered into life. Thats after a good 20 mins without a hint of life so I've no idea why this made a difference. Main thing is I'm back in business. Thanks for all your help though, overwhelmed by responses/pm's/emails. Brilliant stuff!

[hillbilly]

that sounds like a bad connection under tank,be aware of it doing it again.might be good idea to take tank off and wiggle wires while it runs.see if it stops.

[Redbeard]

cheers hillbilly, i will try that, i'll be taking tank off to fit new sender gasket soon anyway so I'll try it then.

[tedsonthezed]

Erm... Just a thought Adam. Bad connection. Spark. Petrol leak.

I'd get that gasket in soon.

[PAULJAC47]

You say you took tank off not got a blocked breather in cap by a any chance??

[Redbeard]

All ok still, looks like it may have been a dodgy connection. Ordered gasket now too. Thanks all.