Post by lunatuck on Sept 19, 2019 8:22:13 GMT -5
Installed the 50mm BBK on the 50cc Tao Tao last week. We have about 150mi on it and it's running great, but it's hard to cold start. It was 50F last night and this morning, I drained the battery trying to start it. I'm basically trying to get it running for the first time today so if my wife takes it, it will start easily. But, it was running and starting. Just struggling in the cold.
So, if I use the electric start, it cranks but struggles to keep turning the engine over. It seems to hit a point of resistance. It will stop turning, and then I let off the starter, and press it again. Eventually it will turn over, but I can hear it's pushing more weight with possibly more compression.
I've never really used the kick start, and I was never able to get it started with it. It has a point of resistance just like the electric starter which prevents a smooth start.
I'm wondering which direction to go in... This is my order unless someone has any other suggestions.
1. I could try a stronger battery. This one is cheap Chinese 12v (4ah).
2. I could rewire the starter with larger wires.
3. I could look for a better starter. (suggestions?)
4. Check compression and consider second head gasket. (I personally don't like this due to increased chance of blown gasket)
I did just install a higher main jet on the carb, but I don't think this would impact starting unless I quickly flood it. I think I did that this morning, but I would prefer it to start before I flood it. Lol. Well, any help would be appreciated. I was hoping to get a nice recorded high speed run for the speed list today. Wanna show off the performance!
Hmmm. So I've noticed something... I go out every morning, try to start it, fail and put the battery on the charger. The second I hit the starter button, it fires right up. Thinking my battery may be a little weak. Gotta find the largest battery that will fit in there.