algaib Posted March 31, 2011 Share Posted March 31, 2011 I've had a DT 125 in storage for a few years. Of course it didn't start. I cleaned out the petrol tank which was full of debris; rust I guess. The filter on the tap is also now clean. I put some petrol in the spark plug hole, connected it to another bike's battery to jump start it. It whent for a second or two, but as soon as the fuel I injected burned, the engine stopped. I tried to bump start it a few times; no joy. But then it suddenly did start and it ran for a few seconds and shot out plumes of white smoke. This happened a few times, but always stopped after a few seconds. I would guess that the fuel isn't going from the carb to the spark plug properly. Any ideas? Also, do you need the battery for it to run? Because the one on it is shot. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NE0 Posted March 31, 2011 Share Posted March 31, 2011 Expecting a bike to start after a few years of storage is a bit optimistic. Its surprising how the damp penetrates everything and old petrol literally gums up the works! Over time stale petrol will lose its ginger and if left in carbs even for a few months it starts to coat the workings with a shellac type varnish. Its a bugger to get off but cleaning all the fuel lines and ways is essential. Spark plugs seem to absorb damp, and so does the HT side of things. Spraying WD40 over everything does help, but I'm afraid if its been a few years since it last started you've got a bit of work to do. However, stick to it once you've got her all cleaned and dry with new petrol, you stand a better chance of starting the ol' girl.... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moderator Airhead Posted March 31, 2011 Moderator Share Posted March 31, 2011 Depends which model it is whether you need a battery, the early ones DTMX's dont need a battery, not sure about the 12v later DTLC and DTR models White smoke is possibly shot crank seal on the clutch side of the engine Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
algaib Posted April 1, 2011 Author Share Posted April 1, 2011 Turned out that the float valve in the carb was stuck from the residue of old petrol. I cleaned it up, along with the jets and voila! Happy running engine Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NE0 Posted April 2, 2011 Share Posted April 2, 2011 Turned out that the float valve in the carb was stuck from the residue of old petrol So I guess a 'thank you' would be in order. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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