Honda Spree and Elite 50 Forums

I got my spree several years ago from a guy who had put a couple holes in the fat tube going from the air filter box into the carb because he had a hard time starting it, and would spray starter fluid through the hole towards the carb, which has worked well to start it for as long as i've owned it. I cleaned the carb today after taking it out of storage and read elsewhere that this was probably an improper practice.

What kind of damage might this be doing, and how is it affecting how my scooter runs?

I have not done a plug chop yet. Might this help it start better? What will a plug chop help my scooter with? If it doesn't, what would be a better way to get it starting smoothly?

Its causing your engine to run leaner, aka not enough fuel too much air which leads to premature wear of the engine, overheating and problems.

Close those holes up to best of your abilities and hope it didn't do much damage. The engine can take a lot before it goes so if you have good compression and performance with this issue fixed I would just keep on ridin.

plug chop is only done to check condition of the engine and you need a fresh plug and about 30min run time at least to do a proper chop.

To start it easier: Fix the holes in the tube. Cover the little intake area ontop of airbox with your finger then crank away, should start right up.

If your by starter is working properly and the carb is primed (been run in the last month or 2) it will fire up without hand choking it. However if its been sitting or run dry you will need to use your fingers to get it going.