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Honda 9.9 will not start

M

mharvey

Member
I was trying to figure out how many things could keep an older (probably mid 80's) from starting. I have fire at the plug but still checked the kill switch and shift position switch and both seem OK. I am spraying lighter fluid into the cylinders, which always worked with lawnmowers to get them to run 10-15 seconds, but even cleaned the carb and replaced fuel filter just in case. Oil level is good, and I get the green light momentarily when pulling start cord.

This just happened one day after what has until now been an "always start" motor, even with little use. Fuel is fresh also. I know nothing about timing?? the only other clue is it seems to be hard to pull, even though that has been so for several years, and this is with two hands pulling with all my force. It just never had turned over easy and grabs and stops sometimes pulling the handle out of my hands. Engine will not even begin to start.

I have done all I can without some help.
 
It sounds as if you may indeed have a timing issue and that you may have had one for some time. But first,. what condition are the spark plugs in? Have you replaced them? That's where to look first. And, while they're out, you could check compression and timing. That is, of course, if you have the tools and the knowledge.

Another thing to check right away is the valve lash settings. Have the valves ever been adjusted or checked? If you're going to work on this yourself, my advice would be to buy the shop manual. With that in hand and asking questions here, you can probably get her running again.

Auto Zone has a tool lending program that you could take advantage of to borrow a compression gauge if you don't want to buy one. A compression gauge, the manual, a set of feeler gauges and some basic hand tools should at least help you get the problem diagnosed properly. It's either that or off to the shop.

Ask all the questions you want. That's why we're all here.
 
Thanks for the input, I have replaced plugs and just "felt" the compression. I do have access to a gauge. The timing and valve lash I will have to research.
 
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