1996 Yamaha Timberwolf won't start

[timberwolf96]

i checked it has good compression, good spark i was told i either need carb rebuilt or new timing chain. anyone know how i could tell which i need fixed?

[dewarjs]

clean the crab and rebuild it

[timberwolf96]

i took the carb to a yamaha dealer earlier and they said that there was nothing wrong with it. maybe need a hotter spark plug or maybe it is timing but when i try to start it, it don't backfire or anything but the electric start works, i dont know!

[DirtDemon]

A hotter spark plug will make no difference, the heat rating has nothing to do with the spark, it indicates how quickly the plug dissipates heat away from the combustion chamber.

Pop the inspection covers off the valve cover and check your valve lash first. Then, while the covers are still off, turn the machine over and see if the valves even move. If not, there is a dowel pin that allows the cam sprocket to turn the camshaft, this pin may be broken. Another thing I would check is the flywheel key, if it sheared off, you will still get spark, just not at the right time. If still can't find the problem, then take the valve cover off and check to make sure all your timing marks are lined up properly. Also check the timing chain tension. If you don't have a repair manual, get one. Ebay is a good place to look, there are also sites where you can download PDF manuals.

[Sc0tt]

Have you tried using starting fluid sprayed into the carb?

[DirtDemon]

That is a good question? If you can get it to start with starting fluid, then your issue is a lack of fuel. Did the people at the dealership take the carb apart and look inside? I should have asked you that befere.

[timberwolf96]

when i took the carb to yamaha dealer they said it was fine. i got compression, spark, and fuel. like you said its probly dowel pin, flywheel key or timing i dont know ill have to check em out thanks and ill keep posted whats going on with it.

[timberwolf96]

im thinking maybe timing's off, its been popping when i try to start it. Would i be able to take off the crankcase or watever its called to get to the flywheel without the crankshaft falling out?

[DirtDemon]

Yes, you have to split the engine cases to get the crankshaft out. Pop that bad boy off and look to see if you can tell whether the woodruff key is intact. If you need to get the flywheel off, get a puller, it's not worth damaging the flywheel by trying to shortcut it.