[Compton]

Hey y'all,

I bought a used 2014 Grom with all kinds of goodies on it. It's my first motorcycle, and I have no idea how to diagnose or fix any problems. Because of all of the upgrades, none of the videos I watch are accurate. I can't even figure out how to check the oil.

I was driving on the highway going about 65 when something felt like it came loose -- I feel like I heard a little backfire, and then it proceeded to die. Now it won't start. The starter is clearly working, but it will not fire up.

Here is the list of upgrades -- hopefully that will help:

Koso 170cc 4V kit
AFR+ Fuel Controller
Larger fuel injector
Custom exhaust
Kitaco clutch cover with oil filter
Ohlins Forks
YSS Rear Shock
Upgraded cam chain tensioner
Dynatec Coil
Stainless brake lines
Air Box Removal
Magnetic oil Bolt
Charcoal Canister delete
M-take Intake

There are other cosmetic features, but I think that's all of the mechanical ones. Where in the heck do I start to try to diagnose the problem? I know it's not bad gas and the spark plug is an Iridium that looks to be in great condition. I've also checked the settings of the fuel controller and they look to be on point as well.

 

[Justin V]

Pull timing covers and start there. I melted a piston that was very apparent when I pulled the head. But that was more of a clutch in, stall, wouldn't restart.

 

[Ninelives17]

Check timing chain

 

[Compton]

Here's a pic of the chain. It's obviously not lined up where it should be -- Is the methodology still the same when setting the timing even with the Koso 170cc 4V? Could this be the reason that the Grom isn't starting?

 

[BillyB]

Do you have compression?
Are you at TDC there?

 

[3sexy5u]

Here's a pic of the chain. It's obviously not lined up where it should be -- Is the methodology still the same when setting the timing even with the Koso 170cc 4V? Could this be the reason that the Grom isn't starting? View attachment 93879

The TDC marking on the cam sprocket can only be used as a reference point in conjunction with the TDC marking that is visible from the window on your stator cover. You must use a socket to rotate your crank to find TDC, then verify the cam sprocket matches.

Start basic. Fuel and spark. How do you know you have spark? Same with the AFR+, what does "on point" mean for the settings? I haven't heard of many stories of Dobeck stuff and Koso BBKs. I looked into it years ago.

You might not like this advice - you are probably better off selling this Grom to someone who knows what they're doing than potentially sinking in many man-hours into this Koso build. There is a real potential to spend more time working on it than riding it. I have owned and run one of these kits for the past 4 years.

BTW - your Kitaco clutch cover has a sight glass built in. You check the oil level visually there.

 

[3sexy5u]

Check the stator. Vibrations from 170BBKs and shavings can sometimes kill it. Bike will crank but not start.