Engine not starting

[bobbert]

I spoke awhile back about my 85 not starting and I am getting frustrated. This bike has set for about 4 yrs in a barn in the midwest. I wired the bike back up and now have spark, lights, etc. but compression seems to be low. The air box has been replaced with pod filters but compression still reads (with starter only) around 30lbs. I added small amount of oil to help rings and nothing changed. How do it check coil and should it read 12v and how many ohms? Exhaust is bad and don't know if that is the reason for the low reading or if the starter will not turn over fast enough to increase compression. Carbs have been rebuilt and seem to be working. I have added starter fluid at the spark plug but not much help. Also, I have left the throttle open to check compression. Thanks for the help

[chopperfreak2k1]

try adjusting your valves

[sctsgt]

Definitely check the valves. It won't matter what else you change if the valves are tight. It's really not as hard to do as the manual makes it look, just make sure to use metric gauges. Good luck.

[bobbert]

Thanks for you help.

[bobbert]

Just looking at manuel. What is the best way to check the valves. Remove the cylinder head then what do I check the book does not specify. Thanks

[sctsgt]

What manual are you using? If you use the Kawasaki manual or the one on the toolbar (if you haven't downloaded and installed it you should) go to page 4-20, it will take you through it step by step. Good luck.

[squidly454]

You remove the valve cover then check and adjust as necessary the clearances between the rocker arms and the valve pushrod ends.
Always adjust to the upper end of the tolerances so it buys you as much time as possible between valve adjustments.

[eaglerider]

It will also - for when u tighten the locknut, if the adjustment moves a tad - the adjustment will still be within the right range.