starting problem

[dear liza]

Hello All
Forty Featherweight EF model problems.
Starts second pull from cold in the river or the barrel runs perfect even if the exhaust is deep in the water .stop the motor it will not start but attempts to fire or runs for a few seconds,will restart after a brew and a butty.BUT with the prop removed will start hot/cold in the river or barrel,what difference does removing the prop make ,4 blade 6" fitted.any ideas.or explanations please.

[Keith.P]

It sounds like its a little low on compression, as it seems to still try to run, so its still getting a spark.
Without a prop you have no resistance on the motor, so it may start and run easier.
Have a look at the compression or is it running a little lean and hot.

[dear liza]

Hello Keith
Do you mean low crank case pressure,trying the motor with the prop on when it is warm sometimes fuel is seen spitting out of the carb air intake.unable to test cylinder pressure,I do have a spare set of rings to try.

[Keith.P]

I would go and put a new set of rings in, as it sounds like it has too high crank pressure from leaking rings if its spitting out of the carb.

[Charles uk]

The standard operating procedure for a Seagull that won't start is.

Clean the fuel system properly, (tank, fuel pipework, carb, jets, float chamber)

Clean & set the points twice, but you don't have any points.

So start with the fuel system, then check the plug, 25 or 35 thou gap depending on year.

Late models tend to have very good compression, & the rings don't often get stuck unless it's been standing un loved for some time.

The compression needs measuring, if you have doubts, you can buy a gauge for about £15 which might save you the cost of the gaskets & rings.

[Tricky 2 Dicky]

Hi
Seems Staffs is not a good place for Seagulls at the moment , you seem to have some similar probs to me Good luck with yours !!

[JERSEYMAN]

I had a similar problem with a clutched 102, started and ran perfectly but as soon as I put it in gear it stalled, a compression test showed low compression, in the 40's if I remember right, anyway, new rings sorted out the problem.

[dear liza]

checked the compression 60 psi cold 55 psi hot,new plug 25 thou,fresh fuel 25/1

[dear liza]

update..........she now starts easy hot or cold ,screwed the needle adjuster right down seems to have done the trick ,searching a bit on higher revs,just need advice on the correct adjustments for the villiers carb.