98 Suzuki DT200 hard to start

aquaman51

Cadet
Joined
Oct 17, 2009
Messages
6
I have a 98 DT 200 and it is very hard to start after it has sat a week or so between uses. When I get it started it runs perfect and starts right up every time if I use it within a few days. But if I don't use it for a week or two I have a really hard time getting it to start. Even with a shot of starting fluid it takes a long time to get it started. I've changed plugs, checked neutral switch, checked all sensors and electronics and all checks out good. I'm at a loss for where to go from here. Any input would be greatly appreciated.
 

Knightgang

Lieutenant
Joined
Oct 6, 2003
Messages
1,428
Re: 98 Suzuki DT200 hard to start

Stop using starting fluid. That stuff is terrible for the cylinders... Washes out all of the lubrication....

Question, have you checked the choke linkage to see if the electronic choke is closing the butterflies all of the way?

I have a DT115, and when it has sat for a while, I have to set the manual choke as my electric choke will not pull all the way closed... once it fires after a manual choke, I have no problems...
 

aquaman51

Cadet
Joined
Oct 17, 2009
Messages
6
Re: 98 Suzuki DT200 hard to start

It is EFI and don't think it has a choke. Also the starting fluid I use has lubricant in it.
 

Knightgang

Lieutenant
Joined
Oct 6, 2003
Messages
1,428
Re: 98 Suzuki DT200 hard to start

Then I am at a loss...

Also, I did not know that you could get starting fluid with lubricant... good to know...
 

cousinabe

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Nov 13, 2001
Messages
765
Re: 98 Suzuki DT200 hard to start

are you pumping the primer ball till firm?
please explain your starting procedures.

you can try pumping the primer ball, turn the key on, wait 5s, off, on wait 5s, off, on and then start.
This will allow the injectors to pulse three times giving an extra shot of fuel to the cylinders.

There is no choke on an efi motor.
 

aquaman51

Cadet
Joined
Oct 17, 2009
Messages
6
Re: 98 Suzuki DT200 hard to start

Tried again today to start and at first started to fire then starter disengaged. tried again and nothing. Decided to pull the plugs and all were wet and had slight deposits on them. Cleaned them up and put back in. Tried again and started right up. These plugs have less than 10-15 hrs on them but it now seems like they were fowled and possibly flooded.

Yes ball was firm, but only let the key on for initial 5 secs before trying to start. But I did turn key on/off several times in my attempts. Maybe that caused it to flood. I will try the 5 sec multiple try next time before initial startup attempt.
 
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