Just Got a Predator

[Arrowking]

I picked up a Predator 212 today from Harbor Freight. I'm going to use it to replace a 6.5hp Tecumseh on a go kart.

I can't start the thing though! I checked the oil and there was some in it(looked to be full by the dip stick). I put some gas in it, turned on the engine, turned on the fuel and moved the lever to choke. After a couple soft pulls, the string wants to snap back to the engine mid pull. This is as close as I get to starting it. Any ideas?

 

[ML-TOYS]

You didnt put oil in it yourself ?
Dont they come without the oil filled as per he instructions to put it in

 

[DaiSan76]

It should not have had oil in it, I have gotten 2 of those, and both were sans oil. Might have been a return.
Did you check to make sure the spark plug wire is seated on the plug? Also, if the nuts holding the carb on are not tight, the thing won't start. Something to do with vacuum. Also, it comes with a low oil sensor, so it won't run with low oil. You will probably want to unplug that once you get it installed or you won't be able to turn right without the engine dying.

 

[Arrowking]

Yes, it came with oil in it. I unscrewed the plug opposite the dipstick and tilted it. Oil came out. It came with the wrapping, Styrofoam, plug wrench, and manuals all sealed up.

I'll check the screws on the carb and the spark wire.

 

[ML-TOYS]

Do these moors come in sealed boxes ?

 

[Arrowking]

By sealed, I mean the plug wrench was in a ziplock bag, and the box was taped up well. Doesn't say REMAN or anything like that on the recipe and I bought it for full price.

 

[Arrowking]

It was the low oil sensor. I appreciate the help!

 

[ML-TOYS]

Did you do this, if not you will damage the motor without thright amount of oil. Tipping the motor is not the right way to do it.

 

[Arrowking]

I put the correct amount in the motor. But yes at first I did tilt the motor. Will it cause permanent damage? The motor wasn't running or anything.

 

[Doc Sprocket]

No- it'll be fine. I think ML was just pointing out that you cannot get an accurate oil level reading with the engine off-level.

 

[Arrowking]

Alright then. Thanks guys! Also what would you use to clean a centrifugal clutch with? And how do I turn the recoil starter around so that it is on the same side as the exhaust?

 

[Doc Sprocket]

You can clean everything except the bushing with carb or brake cleaner. Do not use solvents on the bushing, it will draw the oil out.

 

[Arrowking]

I appreciate the help! Any words on rotating the recoil assembly?

 

[Doc Sprocket]

No issues that I'm aware of. I've never worked on a predator, but most modern recoils are designed specifically so the end user can clock it to a useful position. Remove bolts, put it where you want it, reinstall bolts. Easy-peasy.

 

[Arrowking]

Thanks I really appreciate it!!

 

[Doc Sprocket]

Anytime.

 

[ML-TOYS]

No- it'll be fine. I think ML was just pointing out that you cannot get an accurate oil level reading with the engine off-level.

Correct

 

[Arrowking]

Well guys I ran into another issue. I hooked up the throttle linkage to the cable and mounted the engine.

The engine started normally, but the idle was a bit too high(the driven wheel was trying to turn) so I turned the idle adjustment screw counterclockwise to lower it(tried it a few times until it was backed all the way out). Well that seemed to make it worse, because it idled OK for a couple seconds then it tried to take off. Any ideas?

 

[Doc Sprocket]

Before you decide that it's idling too high- test it on the ground (against a wall or with wheel chocks). With the wheel in the air, it's pretty much guaranteed to turn with the correct idle.

 

[Arrowking]

With the wheel chocked it still tries to run away. The driven wheel tries to climb over whatever I block it with. So I should test it with the wheel in the air?? I did that before and the wheel still spun.