Starter/Motor temporarily locks up...

chipsndukes · 07-22-2009, 1:57 PM

It's been a while since I've posted on this forum, so for the past 1 1/2 year I say THANKS for keeping it going and for the excellent source of information.

On to the problem...

Over the years, my 2002 CBR1100XX "locks up" after sitting for a while. That means, I crank it after weeks or months of no use, the engine turns over once or twice then "locks".

The solution is to drop the bike off the center stand, put it in gear, and rock it to try and "loosen" the motor.

I don't know what causes it, but the solution is always the same. Afterwards the engine runs rough (with one cylinder missing), then smoothens out, warms up and the problem never comes back (until the next time).

1. How does this problem occur, does anyone know ?

2. What might be the solution, and is something on my motorcycle broken ?

Thanks!

Chipsndukes

denzee · 07-22-2009, 2:09 PM

Sounds like the engine is hydraulicing. Meaning the cylinder fills with either fuel or anti-freeze and locks when the piston rises to the top also evidenced by the running rough after. Do you smell any gas or anti-freeze? If it's gas, could be a leaky injector or fuel pressure regulator. Not very serious. If it's A/F, unfortunately the problem is more serious like head gasket or a crack.

Check your oil level. If it's higher than normal and smells like gas you may have narrowed it down. Then check your A/F overflow bottle to see if it's down.

chipsndukes · 07-22-2009, 3:07 PM

Thanks for the reply denzee.

I tried starting the motorcycle in the morning, then had to go out and run an errand and had some time to think.

This time, before I tried to start (unlike other times), I hit the kill switch multiple times (you can hear the tank pump whirring up, etc.). I don't know why I did this, I guess I think I'm "charging" the fuel system, but when it finally did start like you suspected, it was extremely "gassy".

My clothes smell like raw fuel now, I suppose the issue is hydraulic lock from the fuel system.

How could I determine whether it is a leaky fuel injector or a regulator ? I don't have a problem tearing into the fuel system if necessary. I have already had the fuel tank off, and also changed the plugs once, I don't think mechanically there is a problem...

THANKS!
Chipsndukes

denzee · 07-22-2009, 5:10 PM

If the FP regulator diaphram is torn, the fuel gets into the cylinders through the vacuum hose on the FP reg so locate it and pull off the vac hose and look for signs of fuel. Should be obvious. Some or most of the Hondas that vacuum port is on cyl #2. Keep in mind your oil would be overfull and smell like gas and should be changed. A vacuum test on the reg will also help confirm. Doubtful it's the injector.

chipsndukes · 07-22-2009, 5:34 PM

I just went back out and fired it up again.

I did pull the dipstick out this time, too. The level is fine, but the oil was just changed. There was definitely a strong smell of gasoline on the stick, though.

I tried to look for the regulator, but it is hopeless, everything is blocking the way. I'll get the manual out and go from there, my mityvac should help with the diagnosis.

Last question

:

Why would a diaphragm regulator go bad, is this a Honda-specific issue ?

Thanks!
Chipsndukes

denzee · 07-22-2009, 6:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chipsndukes

Last question

:

Why would a diaphragm regulator go bad, is this a Honda-specific issue ?

Thanks!
Chipsndukes

They are somehow prone to failure. Do a search on this forum and you'll see. Don't know if it's only Hondas but I do know it's not common in automotive at all.

chipsndukes · 07-23-2009, 8:29 PM

Hi denzee,

I get the feeling that noone else posts in this forum, so I'll address this to you:

YOU WERE RIGHT!

(see attached)

I can't believe it, but will order a new regulator. The vacuum hose was also full of fuel, it was a mess.

I have another thread that I posted some more questions in. If you don't mind looking at them, I would appreciate it.

I search at the same time I post, but run parallel paths. Sometimes it takes an hour to find something searching that someone else can answer in a few minutes, again, I hope you don't mind.

THANKS

Chipsndukes

chipsndukes · 07-30-2009, 7:02 PM

I wanted to let you all know that the new regulator went on today and the bike is running much better than before.
No rough running at idle, it started right away without issues.

I wanted to get back to give the credit to the people who helped me, I guess that would be denzee.

So thank you, my bike is running very well, and now one more question:

I purchased the regulator from Bike Bandit, but I felt they were slow and expensive. I found the same part on a dealership website afterwards for $10 less, but I can't find the site again.

Who do you all buy your OEM parts from ?

Thanks!
Chipsndukes

chipsndukes · 08-05-2009, 2:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chipsndukes

I purchased the regulator from Bike Bandit, but I felt they were slow and expensive. I found the same part on a dealership website afterwards for $10 less, but I can't find the site again.

Who do you all buy your OEM parts from ?

Thanks!
Chipsndukes

I found the website I was looking for: OEM motorcycle and ATV parts from Honda, Yamaha & Polaris – Cycle Parts Warehouse

One of the local dealers was able to price-match, though, so this is the route I am going for the water pump I need.

I just wanted to follow up, even if it amounts to answering my own question, because this information may be helpful to someone else.

Thanks!
Chipsndukes