The bike will rarely ever start. Most of the time the engine cranks and it just makes popping sounds from the muffler and out the carbs some. When it does start it runs fine about 500-700rmp above where the idle should be. If I bring the idle down it starts backfiring. This sounded like it was too lean so I cleaned out the pilot jets(and checked that there was nothing but gas in the bowls). I have also replaced the battery. I checked the plugs and they looked fine. I’m not so about the spark plug wires because of the way they were designed to connect with the coils(just held back against the metal). What should I check next?

 

I would've thought the wires, but if they're correct, and the Carbs are correct, maybe take off the cam cover to check the cam chain just in case the cam tensioner is broke. While you're at it, check your valve clearances. If you have constant contact between the cam and valve (keeping the valve partially open) I could imagine hard starting, backfiring, and a hard low idle. Keep in mind that I'm probably way over-guessing the problem here, but checking this stuff out is a part of regular maintenance anyway so you should check it out.

Hope you figure it out.

Good luck, and [sm=welcomesign.gif]to the forums!

 

hmm, does initially sound like you are one tooth off on the chain. The cam tensioner is easy enough to check,

 

Thanks for the advice. I found a website(http://www.themcdonalds.net/richard/...t/valves.shtml) that goes over how to check the valves on a 2000. It should be about the same on a 99 right? Also how can I tell is the cam tensioner is broken or off a tooth?
I'll take pics of the wires so you all can see if the ends look right.
thanks alot
Jason

 

Your cam chain will be very loose if the tensioner is broke, and there should be alignment dimples or markings on the cam sprockets that line up with each other. (That lets you know the chain hasn't jumped a tooth.) Read a manual to be sure how your bike is set up though.

 

Havent had time to check the cam stuff yet but...
Here is a pic of the spark plug wire http://server6.theimagehosting.com/i...g=DSC04708.jpg
This is the end that goes into the coil. it is held against the metal in the back of the coil by pressure from a nut abut 2 inches down. Is that how the end should look? It does not seem like the lowest resistance connection.
the connection to the plug boots is aout the same.
is this correct?

 

With that cinch nut shown, it will keep the bare metal tight. Although I prefer to bunch the bare metal together before cinching it tight.

 

Two spark plug wires were switched. Starts like a dream right away.
thanks
jason

 

That's good to hear! It wasn't anything major at least.[sm=smiley20.gif]

 

hahaha, good to hear. Labeling the wires next time may prove beneficial.