82 xj550 maxim

I purchased a 1982 Yamaha xj550 from my neighbor about 5 months ago not running. I've cleaned the carbs and done lots of "clean up" work to it to get it up and running. it has new plugs, batt fresh oil and filter. it runs like a dream AFTER you get it started up. every time i go to start it; it never fires up. i have to push start it every time. after the engine is warmed up it will start up no problem. some occasions it will be hot from a ride but if it sits for more than 30 min it wont start back up w/o being jumped... please help me out fellas. Thank you for your time. Ryan

 

Welcome sounds like you have been busy getting your new find ready.

I would look at your enrichment jets. If you have not seen these check them out

Clean enrichment circuit
http://www.xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=8918.html

Clean carbs
http://www.xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=2908.html

Carb Sync
http://www.xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=2132.html

Bench sync
http://www.xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=6366.html

 

c'mon, it's a 550 we gotta tell him about valve adjustment too
http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=14827.html

as well as the fusebox. The fusebox on these bikes tends to simply break up (the fuse holders' "ears" break off) at the worst time and for no apparent reason. You might have a shaky connection and it's leading you to draw other conclusions. Open up the seat and have a look.

 

I need to add that to my links list Fitz - should we tell him to change the shaft oil too? (old joke I know...) :lol:

 

took the carbs apart. enrichment circuit was spotless... i heard from my boss that syncing the carbs will help a lot. any input on that before i buy the manometer?

 

Look up RickoMatic's Old School Method using a vacuum gauge and safe yourself some serious cash...