96 GTI smoke at startup

[jnylund]

Hi, I just bought this, didnt notice while the test run, but most of the time I start and idle this thing puts out a good amt of smoke, when running I dont notice, not sure if its because im moving fast. In general seems to run pretty well (sometimes when starting while turning it chugs), but goes about 50 mph and seems to run well when I get going.

Carbs were rebuilt in the winter by previous owner.

So the question, should I be concerned bout the smoke? Ideas of what it could be? What about the occasional lack of power when starting on a turn?

thanks
Joel

 

[gsxgtxman]

Some smoke is a good thing. Keep in mind the age of the ski. She should be smokin a little, it's a 2 stroke. I'd be more concerend if I didn't see any smoke!

Have fun and ride er like you stole her

 

[kustomkarl]

You could check the compression to see if its low. You might need a top end rebuild.

Compression Check​

You'll need a compression tester. Go to Auto Zone. I think they sell for like $25.00. The compression gage, will screw in the cylinder head in place of the spark plugs. To test compression, remove the spark plugs. Place spark plug caps on the plug cap studs near the cylinder head to ground the empty caps. This completes the circuit of the ignition electrical system and prevents any electrical problems from the caps being un grounded. Using the correct adapter for the threaded end of the tester,( same length of the spark plug threads length)screw in the tester in one plug hole. Hold the throttle wide open. Push the start button. Watch the compression gauge, when it peaks out at the most compression, let go the start button. Read the psi number. I would do it 3 times to be sure it is accurate. Check all the cylinders the same way. The ideal compression is 150 psi per cylinder. If it is less, it's not a problem as long as they are close to being the same. If the psi is less than 90 it might need be time for a tear down and a rebuild. If the psi in 1 cylinder is say 140 psi and the other is 80 psi you need to tear down and repair. This difference is a lot then there is a problem. The ratio of difference is 10% difference between cylinder readings. I hope this helps you.

Karl