Buddy 50 won't idle...

[MikeR]

Re: 2018 Buddy 50 odo. 2800

Bike "died" on the way home from WalMart.

So far, I've replaced the spark plug, fuel cap,CDI, and I've cleaned the carb (2x). There is fuel and the battery is good.

At this point, the bike will start via it's switch, and will run - but only for as long as throttle is applied. If I let go of the throttle, the bike
turns off. The bike will not "idle".

One thing I'm considering is adjusting the idle screw - but which way CCW or CW ?
Another thing might be to adjust the air/fuel needle - but which way CCW or CW?

I'm not at all anywhere being a small engine/scooter mechanic, but I've plenty of tools and about 70 years (Imperial, not Metric) of tool use, if I started at about 10 years old.

Guys, I'm looking for knowledgeable suggestions, please.
Many thanks in advance!

[jk50]

The mixture screw is capped and can not be adjusted. The idle speed knob is black plastic and you turn it clockwise.

[MikeR]

Yes, thank you - I just realized that.

I found online that the newer OEM replacements DO have adjustable mixture screws, but I'm not buying a replacement.

So - what's the solution to the 'no idle" problem, please?

Thank you

[sc00ter]

Two things pop in my head so I'll ask:

1) When you cleaned the carb did you pull the jets and ultra-sonic clean them separate from the carb body? I'm assuming the idle jet might be clogged.
Also, did you blow out all the little holes on the carb body with compressed air?

2) Is the float height set at the correct height? Its rare that it needs to be messed with but I always ensure its set correct any time I open a carb.

Oh, last though. Is the electrode on the spark plug clear of debris? I highly doubt that's the issue so I'm more curious about the top 2.

Last time I messed with a Buddy 50cc was the pink Buddy I had. It sat for eternity before I purchased it and it was just a mess from sitting.

The sudden (was it sudden?) failure is throwing me off a bit. Keep us posted on your findings and good luck!

[MikeR]

Carb was thoroughly cleaned, 2x, with removing jets, inserting a high E guitar wire into jets (and observed light through every hole), and carb-cleaned it. No air pressure used.

Now I have to go back to your response to see your other questions ...sit/stand by please...

[MikeR]

I checked the float height with the "clear tube technique" looked good.

I will check the spark plug environs for debris tomorrow.

Many thanks!

[MikeR]

Checked the spark plug for debris, and it looks quite new.

Any other suggestions?
Thanks!

[sc00ter]

This is gonna sound obvious but is there a chance you got a bad tank of fuel? Also, I know the 50cc Buddy has that weird little electric choke plunger but I've never had one go bad, unless the choke side was corroded causing me to bypass the whole electric choke circuit for a manual flick switch conversion.

Nothing else is popping in my head. I've been away from 2-strokes for awhile and brain only has so much storage that I forget what I don't keep up with.

Sorry I'm not much help.

[MikeR]

Fuel is fresh - will consider the plunger as a possible suspect, thank you!