Engine cutting out

daveofo · Post by **daveofo** » Fri Feb 09, 2007 12:20 pm

I bought my zxr400 about a month ago, and when it's really cold I've been having some engine trouble - basically the engine is cutting out, though not always straight away. It always seems to be when it's cold. The first couple of times it didn't die instantly, it just slowed down until it hit 0 revs then cut out with an unresponsive throttle. The third time was today while waiting at a queue for traffic lights, it cut out then wouldn't start, so I ended up pulling it to the side of the road and after leaving it for 30 secs or so, managed to start it up again (with choke). Because it was so cold this morning I made sure the engine was warmed up properly before leaving, and I didn't leave the choke on for too long.

Now, what I think the problem is, is the spark plugs... the previous owner apparently never cleaned them, so I figure they're a bit coked up perhaps. I'm no expert however and would appreciate a second opinion on whether it could be something else. Any thoughts?

Thanks!

RedexRobB · Post by **RedexRobB** » Fri Feb 09, 2007 12:48 pm

I think you will find its carb icing. If feels like its being starved of fuel and wont start till after 5 mins or so, then its more than likely carb icing.

Post by **masterofinsanity** » Fri Feb 09, 2007 12:51 pm

especially in this weather and your ok with it when its warm.

daveofo · Post by **daveofo** » Fri Feb 09, 2007 1:00 pm

Cool, I'll look into that. Thanks

RedexRobB · Post by **RedexRobB** » Fri Feb 09, 2007 1:04 pm

Theres not alot you can do about it, i think you can buy stuff to go in your fuel to prevent it.

Post by **masterofinsanity** » Fri Feb 09, 2007 2:24 pm

or fit the carb heater pipes??

RedexRobB · Post by **RedexRobB** » Fri Feb 09, 2007 6:13 pm

Even then thats not a guarantee, ive got them on my ZXR and that iced up just before i rebuilt the bike :S

Post by **diesel** » Mon Feb 12, 2007 9:48 pm

why dont u just heat the carbs up with a lighter