Motorcycle Won't Start But Turns Over
It's a beautiful day, and you're ready to hit the open road on your trusty motorcycle. However, when you turn the key, the engine doesn't start, but it does turn over. You try again, but still no success. Don't panic; this is a common issue that many motorcyclists face. In this article, we'll discuss the possible causes and solutions to a motorcycle that won't start but turns over.
What Does It Mean When Your Motorcycle Turns Over?
Before we dive into the causes and solutions, let's define what it means when a motorcycle turns over. When you turn the key, the engine should rotate and make a cranking sound. This is called turning over. If the engine turns over but doesn't start, it means that the starter motor is doing its job, but the fuel, spark, or compression is not sufficient to ignite the engine.
Causes of a Motorcycle That Won't Start But Turns Over
Now that we understand what turning over means let's discuss the possible causes of a motorcycle that won't start but turns over:
1. Dead Battery
The most common cause of a motorcycle that won't start but turns over is a dead battery. If the battery is dead, it won't provide enough power to the starter motor to ignite the engine. You can check your battery's voltage with a voltmeter, and if it's below 12 volts, it needs to be replaced.
2. Faulty Starter Motor
If the battery is not the issue, the starter motor may be faulty. The starter motor's job is to turn the engine over, and if it's not functioning correctly, the engine won't start. You can test the starter motor by using a multimeter to check the voltage and amperage.
3. Clogged Fuel System
Another common cause of a motorcycle that won't start but turns over is a clogged fuel system. Dirt, debris, or old fuel can clog the fuel system, preventing fuel from reaching the engine. You can check the fuel system by removing the fuel line and checking for blockages and ensuring that the fuel pump is working correctly.
4. Faulty Spark Plug
A faulty spark plug can also cause a motorcycle that won't start but turns over. The spark plug's job is to ignite the fuel, and if it's not functioning correctly, the engine won't start. You can test the spark plug by removing it and checking for signs of wear or damage.
5. Low Compression
Low compression can also cause a motorcycle that won't start but turns over. The engine needs sufficient compression to ignite the fuel, and if it's low, the engine won't start. You can test the compression by using a compression tester, and if it's below the manufacturer's specifications, you may need to replace the piston rings, valves, or cylinder head gasket.
Solutions for a Motorcycle That Won't Start But Turns Over
Now that we've discussed the possible causes let's dive into the solutions:
1. Charge or Replace the Battery
If the battery is dead, you can try charging it with a battery charger or replacing it with a new one. Make sure to choose a battery that's compatible with your motorcycle's make and model.
2. Replace the Starter Motor
If the starter motor is faulty, you'll need to replace it with a new one. Make sure to choose a starter motor that's compatible with your motorcycle's make and model.
3. Clean or Replace the Fuel System
If the fuel system is clogged, you can try cleaning it with a fuel system cleaner or replacing any damaged components. Make sure to choose fuel system components that are compatible with your motorcycle's make and model.
4. Replace the Spark Plug
If the spark plug is faulty, replace it with a new one. Make sure to choose a spark plug that's compatible with your motorcycle's make and model.
5. Fix the Compression Issue
If the compression is low, you'll need to fix the issue by replacing the piston rings, valves, or cylinder head gasket. Make sure to choose replacement parts that are compatible with your motorcycle's make and model.
Conclusion
A motorcycle that won't start but turns over can be frustrating, but it's a common issue that many motorcyclists face. By understanding the possible causes and solutions, you can diagnose and fix the problem quickly and get back on the road in no time. Remember to always follow the manufacturer's recommendations and choose replacement parts that are compatible with your motorcycle's make and model.
