Forum

[K]

I have just restored a 1989 Indian Export 350 Bullet MIKCARB all is well apart from initial cold start (warm start on tick over first time no problem)
Good tick over, good general runing, new charged battery, new iridium plug, checked timing, clean points about to be replaced just in case, clean carb, new filter, new fuel.
Starting procedure varied but always after TDC will start more easily if set on very high tickover.
Where should I look any comments welcome thanks.

[grindstaff]

When you try to start the bike from cold, with the tickover screw set in its normal position, do you open the twistgrip a little or leave it closed?

[K]

When starting from cold with tickover as normal I have tried
Throttle closed
Throttle slightly open
With and without choke
Usually eventually get it started with a quick light snap on the throttle as I kick
The kick back is vicious even though I am carefull to set up just after TDC before kicking
The bike was set up when purchased with timing 8mm before TDC but I have re set this to .8mm as per Hitchcocks instruction sheet
There is no kick back when hot, and normal tickover with closed throttle results in first time starting
Thanks for your interest

[Wheaters]

Sounds like the idle mixture is set too weak. My 350 Electra did the same when I first got it and needed lots of swear words. Now it usually fires up first or second kick and I can be a lot more polite about the process.

[vince]

Hi, is the timing set .8mm fully retarded or advanced? Vince

[K]

Thanks for your suggestions
Ill bear in mind the idle mixture and make sure its on the rich side.
I fitted a timing disc tonight to check the work I had done using a top dead center tool before removing the old points ready for replacement. (Which on inspection could do with a change).
The disc reading was 13-14 degrees so Ill make sure it reads 10 degrees .8mm fully retarded.
Checked advance/retard bobweights and springs all seems to be working gave a drop of oil.
Now Im getting to grips Ill check the full advace before TDC approx 8.5mm 32 degrees once new points arrive in post.
Thanks