Predator 212cc go kart not starting

[TwentySixEleven]

So, I have this Margay kart which I assume to be a Lynx or a similar model from the late 1980's or early 1990's which has a Predator 212cc engine swapped in by someone who owned it before us. I cannot get it to start no matter what I try. The carb has been cleaned out twice, I have a brand new fuel pump on it, it has spark, but even starting fluid won't make it sputter or show any sign of life at all whatsoever. My father and I have been working on it since December 2024 and this is really frustrating to us both, him more than me. It isn't flooding out, the switch is on, everything is as it should be to run, it just refuses to work. Any tips help. Thanks!

 

[Sparkwizard]

Has it ever run for you? Can you check the compression?
Does it ever snap, pop or pull back on the starter rope?
Have you tried a new spark plug? (NGK preferred, here.)

 

[Hellion]

Timing could be off via a sheared woodruff key as Sparky is alluding to above. If the timing is off, it will never start but might cough a little on a rare occasion.

All good advice by Sparkwizard. Heed his advice!

 

[Sparkwizard]

Timing could be off via a sheared woodruff key as Sparky is alluding to above. If the timing is off, it will never start but might cough a little on a rare occasion.

All good advice by Sparkwizard. Heed his advice!

Thank you, Sir.

 

[Hellion]

So, I have this Margay kart.....

Can you post some pics? I bet it's a cool kart. Also, you can upload them directly to the site, no Botophucket hosting service needed.