Cold starts getting harder

[510]

Hey guys,

It's gotten a bit colder in the area as of late, and my GS seems to have more trouble starting every day. It takes about maybe 10 seconds of holding down the ignition before it starts. I looked this up and a lot of people seem to have the same issue, except by "cold" they mean below freezing. Here it doesn't even drop below 50.

I'm getting concerned that all this turning isn't good for the starter motor/battery. Do any of you guys think that this could be a problem with the carbs, valves, or the plugs? Oh yeah, and I haven't changed out that 50 weight oil from summer. Could that be a problem?

Thanks!

[trumpetguy]

Are you using the choke when starting?

I don't think this is causing your problem directly, but if it's colder, you shouldn't be running 50W oil.  10W40 is specified by Suzuki.  I do run 20W50 in the hot months, and it's still above 90F here in Oklahoma.

[jgreth]

I have the same issue.  If I let the bike sit even a full day the next morning when it's low 60's here in Memphis my bike just won't start sometimes.  I'll turn the fuel selector to prime for about 20 seconds, put it back and try again.  This is with full choke on of course.

[kilmer]

Weird, it's been 40 here a few morning and mine starts right, up...hope you figure out an easy solution!

[jgreth]

I haven't done my valve clearance check... I wonder if that could have something to do with it...

[510]

This is with full choke and full throttle. Unless both are wide open, it won't start at all.

Also, yeah, I should probably change out the 20w50. The guy at the bike shop recommended since it was summer. Then again, they were on the other side of the hills, and temps there are on average 20-30 degrees hotter.

Do you guys think it has anything to do with the spark plugs? I don't think the PO changed them, and it's getting pretty close to 6k miles.

[NiceGuysFinishLast]

valves........

[galahs]

What weight oil do you use?

A 10W-30 might be desirable if you are operating in a really cold environment.

[frankieG]

i keep mine indoors but it just takes a little longer to warm up.  it starts just fine

[manofthefield]

I'd start by making sure all your maintenance is up to date: mainly valves (should be checked every 4000miles) and going back to 10W40 oil.  Changing plugs wouldn't hurt.  Make sure your air filter is clean.  See where you're at after doing this stuff. 

You shouldn't need any throttle to start.  The choke on this bike already gives you a little extra fuel

[NWDave]

Get a battery tender.

[510]

Looks like I'm running hella rich...

Is there anything I can do about this right now? I don't have the tools to do a valve check... yet 

[galahs]

The question is WHY is your bike running rich?


Blocked air filter?

Incorrect Float Heights?

Re-jetted?

[510]

The bike is all stock to the best of my knowledge, so I don't think the carbs have been re-jetted. The air filter seems okay... blowing compressed air from the inside-side doesn't seem to produce any dust.

I'll check the float heights tomorrow using kerry's trick with the hoses and stuff. The bike has been dropped a few times and it wouldn't surprise me if that messed them up or something.