1966 Suzuki b100p started, dump, won't start...HELP!

[Suzi66]

oldjapanesebikes : Yes, she was running...I was riding it (well, in first gear around my back yard), I fell--the bike fell over. It's weird...it fell over on top of me, to the left (hence puncture on left leg), but then somehow ended up on the ground on it's right side. I don't really remember how. But, after that, I put it away and went back to it a couple of days later. It started FINE. Started RIGHT up. Ran for about a MINUTE, then quite and hasn't started since.

That's a re-cap of the original question.

I'll check the ignition switch, since I think that's what pressed into my leg. I was considering that. There's no reason there shouldn't be oil in the reservoir-everything was full and it wasn't ridden after topping-off, etc. But, I'll check it.

I don't know what "holed" the piston means, but I think I get the gist of it. No, I don't have tools, but yesterday I bought a sparkplug tool, so I'll remove it today or tomorrow and try what you suggested--provided it doesn't rain (I don't have electricity in my garage to work). I agree that it's a problem with the fall. I can't imagine that a fall at a low speed like that (and so close to the ground) could "break" a bike. I was going SUPER slow (not even fully in first gear...like, half-clutch!). And, I have checked the gears and they all operate...go in and out of every gear...well, at least while it's not running.



tz375: Thanks! I will do as you suggested. When I picked up my battery from the auto parts store yesterday, one of the guys made a comment about it being a really low compression engine and how easy it would be to jump start it. But, not being an experienced rider, I'm afraid I'd fall again trying to push the bike and jump on and kick. Does this really work, like in a manual car? Is it bad for the bike?

Thanks, as always, for all of your input. Yes, I will keep you posted on results. Have a super day!!

Christy

[tz375]

If the switch is what caused that puncture wound, it is reasonable to suspect that the force may have damaged the ignition lock/switch.

Try out that plug wrench and then you will be moving in the right direction. Just remember lefty loosey, rightie tightie oe whatever that old saying is. Plugs tend to stick in place and you may need to whack the wrench with a mallet or a piece of wood but try not to break the plug or your hands.

[CBWELLS]

All the info stated above is good advise. Keep in mind, it only takes 3 things to start an engine. It might not run perfect, but it should at least run!
1] FUEL: Is it getting to the carb? When you fell over something (like the float &/or inlet needle valve inside the carb may have knocked loose & isn't working now). This would be my 2nd best guess!
2] COMPRESSION: When you kick it over you should feel the engine pushing back with some resistance (The wine cork is a good way to tell also!), however I don't see any way that falling over could have altered the compression so I doubt that's your problem. This area would be my least likely area of concern.

3] SPARK: This is where I'd bet my money! Spark has two aspects: Good visible spark as the others described. Buy that new plug. It's cheap & always good to have a spare anyway! Turn off the room lights to make it very obvious, Key ON, plug resting on the engine so you can see the gap & electrode, good crisp kick & if it's there, you'll see it clearly. The second thing is WHEN it sparks (called "timing"), but I doubt that has changed due to a fall, although it is slightly possible.

I'm betting you have NO spark. Probably caused by a damaged Key Switch or loose connection somewhere. Rather than explaining electrics here, 1st find out if there is spark. That will answer a world of questions! Then further troubleshooting can happen.

By the way, here's a link to a FREE basic motorcycle mechanic course site:
http://www.dansmc.com/mc_repaircourse.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Scroll down the page to the INDEX listing. All kinds of good basic info. Something to do over the cold winter months!

YOU NEED TO GET A TOOL SET! (but you already knew that!). Don't spend a ton of $$ on it. Ya probably need a basic METRIC socket &/or combination wrench set & some screwdrivers to get started.... Oh, & of course that spark plug socket!

[Suzi66]

CBWELLS: Thanks! I want everyone who has replied and given me input to know that I am reading it all very carefully and taking it all in. Your time and knowledge is not wasted...I have always found it way more effective for me to learn about something new when there are others to pool their input.

I will follow all this advice. And, thanks for the link. I will follow it after I write this. Yes! I need a tool kit. I am gathering tools...I already have quite an abundance of tools, because I'm a tinkerer, but the metrics thing...why can't we all just convert to one system??!! That would make things so much easier! I'm going to set aside a set of tools specifically for my bike and keep them near it.

I will definitely try to absorb as much info about mechanics as possible from as many resources as possible.

As always, I'll keep you posted. Today is my first "free" day this week, so I'll be working on her for the first time since I purchased the battery and plug tool. I'll post updates. Thanks so much!!

Christy

[oldjapanesebikes]

All sorted ?

[Suzi66]

OK, ok, ...I'm sorry for thee delay. I haven't sorted it out yet. But, as soon as there's news, I'll let you know! I'm working on it!