86 spree starting question

[jack1018]

Hi, My 86 Spreee will start with the electric starter everytime and it runs great. However, once it's been warmed up. It would only start with the kick starter. Any ideas what I should check? I have taken the carb apart and cleaned it. Thanks in advance.

[Kenny_McCormic]

Try cracking the throttle open while cranking.

[Lunytune]

Try cracking the throttle open while cranking.

Oddly, when I finally got the carburetor rebuild right on my "E", it would only start WOT. It has settled down now and starts normal in idle position.

Your description sounds like it's flooding. So yes, try cranking WOT to clear its throat.

[jack1018]

Thanks for the input. I've tried no throttle, part throttle, WOT throtte. No luck. The electric starter will turn the engine over at the same speed. It would almost start. Usually the first or second kick will get it started. Any ideas? Thanks

[Lunytune]

Thanks for the input. I've tried no throttle, part throttle, WOT throtte. No luck. The electric starter will turn the engine over at the same speed. It would almost start. Usually the first or second kick will get it started. Any ideas? Thanks

We haven't abandoned you over the weekend, just waiting for other responses.

Okay, back to basics.
1. Ignition
2. Fuel
3. Compression.

1. Make sure you have a good fire to the plug. Change the plug, double check heat range.
2. Check compression. Could be weak rings. You need at least 100 psi for good performance. The book calls for 114 psi minimum.
3. Fuel: Sometimes a carb will flood when hot. I've got this problem on my lawn tractor right now. Starts cold because it wants rich mixture anyway, but floods when hot, and has to set before restarting. Kolher engine and I'm plumb dumb on Kohler.

Don't guess on any of these steps, saying "I don't think that's it". Go through the paces and eliminate one by one, starting with ignition, then compression. If those two are good, then it's gotta be carb/flooding?