80 Pantera 500 pull start gets harder with each pull

[96xltsp]

Help. just picked up a 1980 Pantera 500 fan cooled spirit motor had electric start. it ran good before it was put away 6 years ago. when the plugs are out it feels right. Pistons go up and down fine. when I put the plugs in, first pull is OK, second pull is more difficult, third pull is nearly impossible any ideas?

 

[tutone]

Is it Hydro-locked? In other words, do you have excess fuel in the cylinders? How have you relieved the pressure so far?

I would shut off the fuel, pull the plugs and pull it over until its dry! You may also have plugs in the crankcase, pull them to drain fuel.

Good Luck!

 

[Builder Bob]

Agreed it sounds like hydro locked, then what.
Needle & seat are not sealing allowing gas to enter the cylinder, causing hydro lock.
Common problem caused by dirty, old gas that rots the rubber seat.
Not run in 6 years. Wow, 36 years old

 

[96xltsp]

you may be correct. I did notice the plugs were wet every time I removed them. I would relieve the pressure when removing the spark plugs and pulling the recoil. if I get all the gas drained out of the cylinders will I need to repair the needle or seat. I will work on it next week when I get back up to MI cabin. Thanks for the responses!

 

[Builder Bob]

Tuton is the guy

There may be a crankcase bolt, that is to be removed for draining the case.
I would drain the fuel, dump it in a car.
Consider a shop in MI.
I would think that this is under 2 hours shop time.
Best of Luck

 

[tutone]

You may just need to clean the carbs. I have seen floats stick after sitting for long periods causing the problem you are having.

Pull the carbs, clean them, check to make sure the needle and seat are working properly (no leak by) and that the float move freely.

Good Luck!

 

[sw_lower]

mouse nest in exhaust... ?