Scooter not starting properly

[splicker]

Hi all,

I'm not very technically minded and have an issue with my scooter.

Sym Jet 4 125CC

The problem started a few months back, actually it was November time last year, been a while since I've had it out and about due to weather and lockdown.

When I push the ignition switch nothing happens, no ignition just silence. After a few tries I get a "clicka" sound from something under the seat area but it takes me several attempts before the scooter starts ticking over.

As I said sometimes hitting the switch does nothing at all and sometimes I hear a "clicka" sound, not a "click", "clicka" if that makes any sense.

Once I have it ticking over its fine its just that initial start and I'm not sure what the problem could be.

I've checked and charged the battery, changed the spark plug and even replaced the ignition switch and I still have the problem.

Any ideas what it could be?

[jaffa90]

Hi, what voltage reading did you get when you checked the battery?
Also check after a few hours after charging.
Also check battery connections to the scooter.

[doggone]

Starter Solenoid or bad connection to starter.
Clicking it multiple times you might be making enough sparks across a poor connection it actually stats to work briefly - not good though as it will be eroding and could catch fire.

[jeffyjeff]

Sounds like the battery to me, even though you charged it. I would have it load tested. A failing battery can show good no-load voltage, but not have the capacity to power the starter.
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History shows again and again how nature points out the folly of men - BOC

[CorriganJ]

The clicka sound really is indicative of a battery issue. I don't know a ton about bike mechanics but I worked in a car dealership where we would not drive cars for a few months and the battery would die. I would hear that clicka clicka sound weekly if not daily. If its not the battery itself, perhaps its a connection somewhere? Is it grounding out or something?

[Robby]

Scooters need very little battery to start, so if the battery was charged and the problem remained, then a problem with it is less likely.

So that leaves starter solenoid or wiring as the next likely things. Starter solenoids are cheap so it's worth ordering a generic one off ebay.

Wiring - could be a loose connection at the ignition switch or starter solenoid. You can check with a multimeter to see if the switch is working.

[jeffyjeff]

[smokin joe]

I believe if you let a battery go completely flat it is knackered beyond recovery.

[doggone]

[Robby]

Thinking about it some more, if you also have to hold on the rear brake to start the engine then it could also be that bit which is failing - brake light switch not working. The test is to see if the brake light illuminates when you pull the brake in.

I would still suspect the solenoid though. Bikes keep them up high in a sensible position. Scooters mount them under your feet, in a place where they can spend a lot of time getting wet.

[misscrabstick]

Turning the ignition on is when you turn the key to the run position, starting the engine is operating the starting motor with the start button. Ticking over is when the engine is running with the throttle closed.

[splicker]

Thanks for the replies everyone.

The battery is in good working order, I always keep it maintained, the brake lights are working fine and there are no loose connections from battery or switches.

Follow your replies I've ordered a solenoid and will see if that makes any difference when it arrives in a couple of days.

Hopefully I can get it going by the weekend and take her out for a ride as I only have 2 weeks left before my both my insurance and CBT runs out.

[Robby]

Remember to disconnect/remove the battery before changing the solenoid. For safety, in a number of ways.