cylinder or carb

[monsterjam5000]

i had my bike out tring to get it running better while working on it. it got hot and the header turned red all but one pipe so my question is why would all get hot and turn red but not the one i was thinking maybe the cylinder is dead and not moving or the valves are not moving but when i put my hand no the carb it will suck it in some so i think the cylinder is working or it would not have sucktion but i dont know can anyone help

[yds3guy]

i had my bike out tring to get it running better while working on it. it got hot and the header turned red all but one pipe so my question is why would all get hot and turn red but not the one i was thinking maybe the cylinder is dead and not moving or the valves are not moving but when i put my hand no the carb it will suck it in some so i think the cylinder is working or it would not have sucktion but i dont know can anyone help

You're getting too much fire in the exhaust. Either too much fuel or the timing is just way off. It could by firing the plug in that cylinder when the exhaust valve is open, or when the piston is pushing the "exhaust" gas out (which in that case would not be exhaust gas, but rather a still-burning fuel-air mixture).

[monsterjam5000]

is there a way i can check if the cylinder is moving and if the vaulves are opening and if the cylinder is firing and gettiong gas i dont care that they are getting hot right now but i need to know whats wrong with the first cylinder or carb on the left side of the motor

[yds3guy]

is there a way i can check if the cylinder is moving and if the vaulves are opening and if the cylinder is firing and gettiong gas i dont care that they are getting hot right now but i need to know whats wrong with the first cylinder or carb on the left side of the motor

Is it a shared header? If it's two separate pipes, pull the exhaust off of the side that you think isn't firing.... you'll know pretty quick if it is or not. Don't leave it run for very long like this, and watch your face!

Also, if one of two cylinders isn't firing, chances are the motor will be running very rough. Also, check your plug. If it's wet with fuel, then the cylinder isn't firing.

[monsterjam5000]

it has four cylinders and the header has a collector where all pipes come to one big pipe but if i take the header off and let it run it will shoot out a flame if its firing

[jw11432]

...or you could remove the plug you suspect isnt firing, place the electrode against the engine or frame (a suitable ground) and turn the engine over. if it sparks, you know its firing. (btw, the wire must be connected to the plug for this to work, but im sure thats obvious) thats probably a little safer (and easier) than removing an exhaust pipe and starting it. in fact, the engine may not even run without an exhaust pipe..backpressure is fairly important to engine operation. good luck

oh, and as far as seeing if the valves are opening/closing...pop open the valve cover, disconnect the plug wires (to prevent it from starting) and tap the starter. you will be able to see the valves and related hardware in action.

[monsterjam5000]

alright cool i think its firing but dont know have to check somthing is wrong though and the carbs need cleaned

[Maico Shark]

Time to make friends with a gearhead biker. Show him your bike and tell him your problem. Go buy beer, sit and watch.

[monsterjam5000]

ya thats what i need but am having a hard time finding one