Hi ppl

Have purchased my first ever kawasaki a 1994 g1 klx 250 for some green landing fun but I bought it with low compression, I can turn the kick starter over by hand. So the engine is coming out for a top end rebuild and check. It does run but won't tick over below 5000rpm.
Now I suspect it's either the valves are not sealing correctly or the piston rings etc need replacing. I have downloaded the manual off here but it's for a 1997 klx and I was just wondering if they are the correct valve settings for my bike aswell? If not does anyone know them?
Also another question, is it possible to fit a electric start to them afterwards? And if so what would I need?
Sorry for the long post but many thanks in advance for any replys

 

I can't say for certain whether the valve clearances are the same.

I don't think e-start is reasonably possible, but it looks like you're in the UK, so your bike might be different than US models. If i remember correctly, at a minimum for US models, e-start would require new crankcases, new crank, new side covers, and better charging system...a whole new engine, essentially. It's definitely not a bolt on proposition.

 

That's a tough one to diagnose over the internet. Yes, you might need serious engine work, but why not check current valve clearance, cam timing, and some other basics before just jumping off into it? How much of the history of this particular bike do you know? Before yanking off the top end, it might worth your time to try some diagnosis that could determine what's wrong. Like I said, you still might need to pull the top end, but at least you would have eliminated some of the usual suspects.

 

Have you done anything to the carb? Like clean it? Maybe that rpm doesn't correspond to a jet, but if one were clogged it might do that.
The low compression? It has a mechanism to leave an exhaust valve open at low rpm, thus a much lower compression number. What is low?
My non-running 650 has low feeling compression and I can turn it over by hand(carefully), but I suspect as soon as I find the electrical problem and get some spark that it will run fine.
In short, KISS. The "3 check" - Air, spark, gas - all ok?
If yes, then open her up and do some checking.
I've fixed 75% of my issues with what I call the "3 check". I can handle the "3 check" on my own, beyond that and I seek help. Which is maybe why you are here...
Good luck, I hope it's an easy fix.