Big Problem.

[bigvariable]

Here's the problem: she won't start. My first conclusion was that there was water in the gas tank again, because about a week ago she broke down with water in the gas tanks, so I just bled the gas lines and she started right up. So this time I did that same thing, but nothing changed. I happened to break down right next to a mechanic's shop and he was kind enough to help out a little.

After ruling out water in the tank, I next concluded that it might be the starter or the spark plug. I buy a spark plug socket, but realize that the way the engine was designed, it needed the socket from the tool kit (By the way, is there anywhere I can buy the plug socket for this bike?), but I don't have one because it's an older bike that has been through a few owners. I try out the new spark plug in the line, and it got spark, so it's not the starter and the mechanic said the the manner in which it was turning over indicated that the engine isn't getting any compression. Which could mean a number of things.

My question to you is:
1) What do you think is preventing the engine from starting?
2) What would it take for me to diagnose the problem? And what would be the level of difficulty to do so?
3) How much would it cost to fix everything?

Thanks for any information you can help me with.

[Easy Rider]

My question to you is:
1) What do you think is preventing the engine from starting?
2) What would it take for me to diagnose the problem? And what would be the level of difficulty to do so?
3) How much would it cost to fix everything?


At this point, any answers you get would just be WILD guesses.

You can get a spark plug tool at any Suzuki dealer; probably Honda, Yamaha, etc. too.

Get the plug changed and the battery charged up and see what happens then.

If the starter is turning the engine, then it usually is NOT the problem.

My guess at this point is: You'd be better off letting a shop fix it; quicker, easier and maybe even cheaper in the long run.

[GZ250]

my suggestion is the same go to the shop and they can fix it good especially if its an old bike. sometimes going to the dr does not hurt. they exist because of us and need some patronage :)

[bigvariable]

Thanks guys. I'll take it to the local Suzuki and see what they say about it.

[alanmcorcoran]

They sell a "flexible" plug wrench at Manny moe and Jack out here that fits. I'm sure there's an equivalent at any large auto parts store.

[kaput]

Your local auto parts store will carry a spark plug socket that fits (Autozone Here Had one for 5 bucks) maybe you could use a vice grips on your current socket or remove the tank?
You can get a compression tester there too but make sure it is the right size (same size as the spark plug)

Fixing EVERYTHING is a tall order and would cost more than the bike is worth ;)

if you get a new plug and test the compression there are 2 things you can cross off the list.
:rawk: