Motorcycle Ran Out Of Gas Now Won't Start
Running out of gas on your motorcycle can be one of the most frustrating experiences, especially if your bike won't start after refilling the tank. Many riders experience this issue and are left wondering what to do next. In this article, we'll cover the possible reasons why your motorcycle won't start after running out of gas and what you can do to fix it.
Reasons Why Your Motorcycle Won't Start After Running Out of Gas
There are several reasons why your motorcycle won't start after running out of gas. Here are some of the most common:
1. Airlock in the Fuel Line
After running out of gas, the fuel line in your motorcycle can become airlocked. This means that air has entered the fuel line and is preventing gas from flowing to the engine. To fix this issue, you'll need to bleed the air out of the fuel line.
2. Clogged Fuel Filter
A clogged fuel filter can also prevent gas from reaching the engine. If you've been running your motorcycle on low fuel for an extended period, debris from the gas tank can accumulate in the fuel filter, clogging it. To fix this issue, you'll need to replace the fuel filter.
3. Faulty Fuel Pump
If your motorcycle has an electric fuel pump, it can become damaged or fail completely after running out of gas. A faulty fuel pump won't be able to deliver gas to the engine, preventing your motorcycle from starting. To fix this issue, you'll need to replace the fuel pump.
4. Dead Battery
If your motorcycle won't start after running out of gas, it could be due to a dead battery. The battery in your motorcycle powers the electric starter, which is responsible for starting the engine. If the battery is dead, the electric starter won't work, and your motorcycle won't start. To fix this issue, you'll need to replace the battery.
What to Do When Your Motorcycle Won't Start After Running Out of Gas
If your motorcycle won't start after running out of gas, here are some steps you can take to fix the issue:
1. Refill the Gas Tank
Before troubleshooting any other issues, make sure your gas tank is completely full. If your motorcycle is still low on gas, it may not start even if you've fixed other issues.
2. Bleed the Air Out of the Fuel Line
If you suspect an airlock in the fuel line, you'll need to bleed the air out. Start by turning the ignition on and off a few times to prime the fuel pump. Then, locate the fuel line and loosen the bolt on the fuel filter. Pump the gas until you see gas flowing through the fuel line. Finally, tighten the bolt on the fuel filter and try starting your motorcycle.
3. Replace the Fuel Filter
If you've ruled out an airlock in the fuel line, you may have a clogged fuel filter. To replace the fuel filter, locate it on your motorcycle and remove it by unscrewing the bolts. Replace the old filter with a new one and tighten the bolts. Try starting your motorcycle again.
4. Check the Fuel Pump
If your motorcycle has an electric fuel pump, you'll need to check it for damage. Start by turning the ignition on and listening for a buzzing sound, which indicates the fuel pump is working. If you don't hear a buzzing sound, the fuel pump may be damaged and need replacing.
5. Test the Battery
If you suspect a dead battery, you'll need to test it with a multimeter. Connect the multimeter's red lead to the positive terminal of the battery and the black lead to the negative terminal. Check the voltage reading on the multimeter. If the voltage is less than 12 volts, the battery is dead and needs replacing.
Conclusion
Running out of gas on your motorcycle can be a frustrating experience, but it doesn't have to leave you stranded. By understanding the possible reasons why your motorcycle won't start after running out of gas and taking the necessary steps to fix the issue, you can get back on the road in no time.