1984 EZGO Marathon Needs Direction Change to Start

[Crimson Wonder]

So my project cart (gas 2pg engine) will start up and run great from a cold sit (in either direction). But after a couple laps around the yard if I stop the engine, I have to place it in reverse to get it to start again but can put it back in forward and continue running just fine for as long as i want. It does this every time I stop though. Open to any opinions on where to start checking things.

[Sean5545]

Originally Posted by Crimson Wonder

So my project cart (gas 2pg engine) will start up and run great from a cold sit (in either direction). But after a couple laps around the yard if I stop the engine, I have to place it in reverse to get it to start again but can put it back in forward and continue running just fine for as long as i want. It does this every time I stop though. Open to any opinions on where to start checking things.

Check and clean the connections at the S/G for one.....next step would be checking the F-N-R switch and micro switch

[cart around]

Won't start, or won't turn over?

[Sean5545]

Good call carts around i assumed he meant it won't turn over

[Crimson Wonder]

Turns over fine. Won't start.

[cart around]

I would start with visually checking the lower fuel pump diaphragm, and then move on to crankshaft seals.

[Crimson Wonder]

So I took the fuel pump off to check it and created a new problem. One of the mounting bolts broke off in the motor housing. It's basically flush but I don't have a easy out to get it out with. Guess I'll try to buy one this evening and go from there. If I can't this out is it possible to replace this pump with an electric pump?

[my1423]

If you got an arc welder weld a small bolt onto the end of it.
Or a large battery and a jumper charger can get the job done if you dont have a welder.

Try threading it out right after it stops glowing. Works most of the time.


Probably crank seals, but, Once you get the fuel pump sorted, if you have a timing light hook it up when it refuses to start and make sure you have spark. Wiring when it heats up can raise resistance.

[cart around]

Cover that center hole before you do any drilling.

[Crimson Wonder]

The center hole is threaded the same as the mounting bolts so I put the good bolt in it. I got an easy out set this evening so I'll try that tomorrow. If it doesn't work I'll get adventurous and try the welder. It's just a small bolt for welding on that close to the block.