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Post by utidropout on Jul 7, 2019 16:12:38 GMT -5
I have used the kick start on the TaoTao not that often, and after kicking for some time the internal gear setup malfunctions inside. Then I need to take it apart and put the kick start gear setup back together. Then it will work for sometime, and then I will need to fix it all over again.
It seems that the factory kick start system was not designed good enough for basic reliability. Please give me your thoughts on fixes and/or replacement solutions.
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Post by 90GTVert on Jul 7, 2019 18:12:54 GMT -5
Keep the e-start system in good working order and use the kick start as an emergency backup.
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Post by utidropout on Jul 7, 2019 18:33:28 GMT -5
It is exactly what I do.
If the gas is not fresh, the electric start MAY drain the battery trying to get the thing started. I have not done the old gas vs new gas comparison, but I am thinking old gas MAY not start reliably sometimes. The gas that I got inside there is months old, and it starts just fine in ideal conditions.
The thing about these TaoTao scooters is they are NOT adequately safe unless they are properly configured by the owner and the carbs are replaced as standard. It maybe preferred to just remove the kick start and seal the hole with some type of bolt and metal gasket ring, if the electric start works great with fresh gas in all conditions (likely only quality after market carb...).
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Post by utidropout on Jul 7, 2019 21:23:21 GMT -5
I likely figured it out today. I think the problem is the snap ring that holds the gear in place may pop out of place when it is loose and/or the open part of the ring is seated in the direction of the kick start pressure direction.
Obviously, titanium may work better for the snap ring, if it is possible to find one. Still, putting on titanium maybe to difficult. If anyone knows where to buy the snap ring for the kick start gear, please post it.
THANK YOU
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Post by 90GTVert on Jul 7, 2019 21:26:10 GMT -5
Shortly after you ditch the kick start altogether, the e-start won't work when you're away from home. That's about how it usually goes. If you suspect the fuel, maybe start using a fuel treatment like Sta-bil.
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Post by FrankenMech on Jul 8, 2019 19:38:55 GMT -5
If the fuel is old and has lost volatility, carry a can of starting fluid. Or drain the fuel from the carb and tank and replace it. Fuel mixtures change with the season.
When making repairs, if something does not look right, study the manual. Even brand new assemblies can have QC problems.
Standard spring steel lock rings and cir-clips work.
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Post by GrumpyUnk on Jul 9, 2019 10:02:24 GMT -5
As was suggested, the kick start is rather lacking in design heartiness. It will work, but is not designed the same as a motorcycle or ATV kick start and will likely fail.
The snap ring is rather small for its assigned duty. It might make sense to cut a wider, deeper groove in the shaft, and fit a larger, thicker snap ring, and possibly a washer. There should be enough metal left in the shaft to handle the torque.
Moving the kick start lever up so it has a longer stroke before bottoming out seems to help. Most are set at about the 3:00 o'clock position. If you move them to 1:30 or 2:00 you get more motion before your foot follows the kick start pedal around past 6:00 where you lose kicking power. YMMV.
If you take the CVT cover off, you can disassemble the kick start parts, lubricate lightly with grease those that cycle or rotate, and clean off the belt dross. The spring must hold the gear & shaft gently so it will walk up the spiral and engage properly with the dogs, so make sure it is not too loose or you will kick without any effect. The two gears should mesh freely and smoothly. If there are burrs or rough spots, it would help to use a grinding tool(Dremel/Tacklife/etc) to smooth the teeth, a file may fit or work better. Once cleaned up, a light coat of grease will help them slide freely. The belt dust won't hurt. The shaft for the moving gear should be lubed with grease, and the bushing for stub of the Bendix drive should be dabbed with a little grease also. It will reduce friction and make the Bendix spin easier.
If you don't go wild with the kick start, the original snap ring will work. Make sure the spring is wrapped and set properly. You can check kick action with the case removed to see mesh and spiral operation.
tom
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