By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to diagnose and fix the issue, allowing you to get back on the road in no time.
Motorcycles are designed to endure harsh weather conditions, but exposure to rain can cause damage to various components of the bike, leading to issues such as difficulty starting the engine. If you’ve left your motorcycle out in the rain and now it won’t start, there are a few reasons this could be happening. In this article, we’ll explore some of the reasons why your motorcycle won’t start after being left in the rain and provide some solutions for fixing the issue.
Reasons why a motorcycle won’t start after being left in the rain
Motorcycles are designed to withstand a variety of weather conditions, but prolonged exposure to rain can cause a number of problems. Water can infiltrate various parts of the bike and cause issues with the fuel system, electrical components, and battery. Here are some of the most common reasons why motorcycles won’t start after being left in the rain:
Water in the fuel system
One of the most common reasons why a motorcycle won’t start after being left in the rain is because water has entered the fuel system. Water is denser than fuel and will sink to the bottom of the tank, where it can clog the fuel filter or get sucked into the carburetor. This can cause the engine to run poorly or not start at all.
Wet spark plugs
Another common issue that can prevent a motorcycle from starting after being left in the rain is wet spark plugs. If the bike is left out in the rain with the spark plugs exposed, moisture can accumulate on the plugs and cause a short circuit. This can prevent the spark plugs from firing and the engine from starting.
Corrosion on electrical components
When a motorcycle is left out in the rain, moisture can get into electrical connections and cause corrosion. This can prevent the electrical components from working properly and can cause the bike not to start. Some of the electrical components that can be affected by corrosion include the starter motor, ignition switch, and battery terminals.
Water in the engine oil
If water gets into the engine oil, it can cause damage to the internal components of the engine. Water can also dilute the oil and reduce its effectiveness as a lubricant. If the oil is contaminated with water, the engine may not start or may run poorly.
Damage to the battery
When a motorcycle is left out in the rain, the battery can become damaged. Water can get into the battery and cause it to short-circuit or corrode the terminals. This can prevent the battery from providing enough power to start the engine.
How to fix a motorcycle that won’t start after being left in the rain?
Drain the fuel tank and carburetor
If there is water in the fuel system, the first step to fixing the problem is to drain the fuel tank and carburetor. This will remove any water or moisture that may be present in the fuel system. After draining the tank and carburetor, replace the fuel filter and refill the tank with fresh fuel.
Replace the spark plugs
If the spark plugs are wet, they will need to be replaced. This will ensure that the engine is getting the spark it needs to start. Before installing the new spark plugs, make sure that the spark plug wires are dry and that there is no moisture present.
Check and clean electrical connections
If there is corrosion on the electrical connections, they will need to be cleaned and checked for damage. Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any corrosion from the terminals and connections. If any of the connections are damaged, they may need to be replaced.
Change the engine oil
If there is water in the engine oil, it will need to be changed. Drain the old oil and replace it with fresh oil. Make sure to also replace the oil filter.
Charge or replace the battery
If the battery is damaged, it may need to be replaced. If it is not damaged but simply discharged, charge it fully before attempting to start the bike. Use a battery charger with a trickle charge setting to avoid overcharging the battery.
Dry out the bike thoroughly
After fixing the issue, make sure to thoroughly dry out the bike. Use towels or a cloth to remove any moisture from the bike’s exterior. If necessary, use a hairdryer or a heat gun to dry out electrical components or other hard-to-reach areas. Allow the bike to sit in a warm, dry location for several hours or overnight to ensure that all moisture has been removed.
Conclusion
If your motorcycle won’t start after being left in the rain, don’t panic. There are a few common issues that could be causing the problem, such as water in the fuel system, wet spark plugs, corrosion on electrical components, water in the engine oil, or damage to the battery.
FAQs
Can I start my motorcycle if there is water in the fuel tank?
It’s not recommended to start your motorcycle if there is water in the fuel tank. This can cause damage to the engine and other components.
How can I prevent my motorcycle from getting damaged by rain?
You can prevent damage to your motorcycle by storing it in a garage or under a cover when it’s not in use. If you must leave it outside, make sure to cover it with a waterproof cover.
What should I do if my motorcycle won’t start after trying these steps?
If your motorcycle still won’t start after trying these steps, you may need to take it to a mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.
How often should I change the engine oil in my motorcycle?
It’s recommended to change the engine oil in your motorcycle every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or at least once per year.
How can I tell if my battery is damaged?
If your battery is damaged, it may leak fluid or have visible corrosion on the terminals. It may also fail to hold a charge or provide enough power to start the engine.
