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Xj550 wont start

Discussion in 'XJ Technical Chat' started by Philr, May 26, 2025.

  1. Philr

    Philr New Member

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    Hi im looking for advice all. I'm not having much luck and I need to know where to start fixing this.

    Last summer I brought an xj550, I have compression tested her (ok but not brilliant), I have stripped and rebuilt the carbs, I changed oil and filter, I've found her the correct airbox, I've given her brand new spark plugs (I've checked for a spark). But she won't start.

    Have I missed something obvious (probably) but what have I missed? Or am I doing something wrong.

    This is my first project motorcycle, and I'm doing my best to not lose my cool with her so im going slow and steady. But what I really need now is someone local to weymouth (dorset) who could tell my im doing something wrong so I can do better. Or at least a good solid starting point so I know where to move forward.

    Any help is appreciated but I just want to know where I can move forward.

    Thanks
    Phil
     
    Philr, May 26, 2025
    #1
  2. Philr

    Philr New Member

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    Oh the engine was seized but it got moving again.
     
    Philr, May 26, 2025
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  3. Timbox

    Timbox Well-Known Member

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    @Philr, Have you tried running the bike with just some starter fluid? When cranking the bike over, spray a little starter fluid in the air box side of the carbs and see if it will fire. This is of course already knowing that you have spark on all the plugs. If not, check that first.

    Being this is your first bike, did you really clean them carbs good? There is a little jet in the bottom of the float bowl that gets overlooked all the time. That jet is need for the choke or starting ckt.

    You need a great battery to make the TCI spark. Using a bigger jumper battery might help. As for the seized motor, using some acetone and Automatic Trans Fluid, 50/50 mix might help loosen the rings, if they are stuck. Looking down the spark plug holes to see how the walls of the cylinders look to. Hoping you have compressed air available, put a rag next to the hole and hit the hole with compressed air to remove any rust or stuff in each cylinder.

    Add some pics when you get a chance. That will really help us see what you are dealing with and might catch something we miss. Keep on working on her, she will fire and run.
     
    Timbox, May 27, 2025
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