1985 Kawasaki 160 - Help

[mudslut 10]

I have a 1985 kawasaki klt 160.. Picked up for my kids.. The reason I need some help is hard to start and when started will idle great then race??? I cleaned all jets carb is very clean.. it also dosent seem to have the best compression. any ideas? thanks:confused:

[XWrench3 10]

actually, compression has a lot to do with the way any engine starts and runs. you need to check it, and compare that to the manufacturers specs. if the compression is lower than the minimum, you either have leaking piston rings, or worse (for stable running and starting) a leaking valve. have you checked the valve clearance. if the valves (even one of them) is to tight, it will allow compression to leak. if it is an intake valve, it can allow a "double charge" of fuel to be delivered to the engine. there is always the possibility of a head gasket leak also, which can cause a loss of compression. if you are just "feeling" the compression by tugging on the rope, that does not cut it. a small bore engine can have considerable compression (200-250 psi) and still not feel like it has a lot. it just depends on the bore diameter, and the diameter of the starter rope cup. the larger the cup, the easier it is to pull.