350x starting help

[heusser85]

so i just took my head off to replace gaskets and remove broken exhaust studs everything appeared to go smoothly until i got it back together and tried to start it. i kicked and kicked and some time later i got it to fire and now it only stays running revved at half throttle and studders and if i let off the gas it will die. after its warmed up i sometimes can start it and sometimes i give up kicking till the next day. any direction guesses or help would be much appreciated.

[wonderboy]

It could be a lot of things: valve timing could be off, head gasket could be leaky, valve lash could be misadjusted, decompression cable could be misadjusted, carb may have gotten hosed or has an air leak at the manifold.

Valve timing will be the most intrusive to check and fix, but unless you are 100% certain it is right, probably should be checked. Then valve lash next.

Do you have the manual? It will give you lots of instructions for all these tasks.
http://www.kb0nly.info/ATC/index.php?dir=ATC350X%2F

[BOB MARLIN]

My guess would be timing.

[heusser85]

well i just tore it down and moved chain one tooth and now it only sputters for a second and wont start im lost i need to see a picture and exact process for guaranteeing correct timing chain installation

[wonderboy]

i need to see a picture and exact process for guaranteeing correct timing chain installation

...please download the service manual from the link I posted above. It will give you EXACTLY what you are looking for. Refer to page 6-14 for your picture and instructions.

Also, please pay particular attention to page 6-17 regarding installation of the head cover. You need to be careful where you put sealant. You need to keep it away from the areas around the cam bearings. If sealant gets in there, you can damage (destroy) the bearing surfaces.


Here is the "Cliff's Notes" version:
Cam lobes down
Flywheel "T" marked aligned with index
Cam sprocket lines on back side aligned even with upper surface of head
Bolt it all together

[BOB MARLIN]

Lobes down,center punch mark on the sprocket up, timing marks lined up on the fly wheel and cover, timing lines on the sprocket flat with the top of the head. Install chain tensioner and check to make sure everything is still lined up.

[heusser85]

thanks for the help the cliff notes are exactly how i did it the first time and it ran like trailprotrailprotrailprotrailpro so i changed it and now it runs worse so i have to put it back to where i had it and seek out a different option.