New member needs help w/ 48cc 4-stroke (chinese)

jason4207 · #1 12-08-2008, 11:10 AM

Hey guys! New member here. I joined to try and get some help w/ a recent project. I recently acquired a free mini-ATV. It was not running when I got it (that's why it was free), but I've been trying to resurrect it. I know it's not a motorized bike, but I was hoping to find some help w/ the engine itself.

I completely dismantled the electric start system trying to figure out how it worked (and why it wasn't working). I managed to get that going. I then proceeded to put some gas in the tank. I can't get it to fire yet, but before I proceed I need to fix another problem...gas leak. [side note...do not pour gas inside the garage...the garage stinks, and it starting to permeate into the house.] There is a small hose coming out the bottom of the carburetor, but it is broken off. I'm not sure where it's supposed to go, but I'm guessing it might be a return line to the top of the gas tank (pure guess...I'm still a novice mechanic, but pretty handy).

Anyway, any help I can get to get this little monster running again would be greatly appreciated. My 7yr old was so excited last night as I put some gas into it. He's really hoping I can get it running...so am I!

I searched online, and this model looks to be identical except that mine is red where this item is camo-blue.

Art.No.:RA-ATV009
1) Max. speed: 55km/h
2) Engine: 50cc, 4-stroke, air-cooled
3) Fuel: gasoline
4) Fuel tank volume: 4.5L
5) Ignition: CDI
6) Start system: electric or remote start
7) Transmission: chain drive system
8) Front / rear suspension: hydraulic pressure shock absorber
9) Dual suspension / shock-absorber system: dual swing arms
10) Tires: 145 x 70-6
11) Brake: rear disc (brakes the axle)

I can take some pics of the engine if it would help.

Thanks in advance!

Jason

**Bikeguy Joe** · #2 12-08-2008, 11:28 AM

Welcome.

You'll probably want to at least remove the float bowl and clean the carb out with some carb cleaner. Make sure the jets (little brass screws with a littler hole in it) are clear.

Yes, gas in the garage or house is particularly bad if you have gas heat, hot water, ect. The fumes can creep along the floor and ignite once it gets to the pilot.

**Bikeguy Joe** · #3 12-08-2008, 11:29 AM

Also, remove the spark plug, and ground it against the engine and crank it over to make sure you have spark.

**Bikeguy Joe** · #4 12-08-2008, 11:29 AM

With no gas fumes present!

jason4207 · #5 12-08-2008, 12:27 PM

Thanks for the quick response Joe.

Am I correct that the 'mystery' broken line goes back to the top of the tank? I'll post up some pics later tonight if it helps.

Where do you guys get spare parts? Does Auto-Zone or similar carry these items? Is there a good online outlet? I'm going to at least need some new fuel line, maybe a new float bowl, and a new spark plug probably wouldn't hurt.

When you say to remove the float bowl, do you mean to also replace it? Does it act as a filter?

Is there any instructions on how to clean the carb? Should I just blast cleaner into every opening?

My next step was going to test for spark, but I once I got the fuel leak I figured I should get that under control first. I'll be sure to make sure the fumes have dissapated before igniting anything, though. I'll probably push the ATV half-way down the drive-way just to be safe.

jason4207 · #6 12-08-2008, 12:52 PM

Anybody have any idea where I can get a manual for this engine?

**Bikeguy Joe** · #7 12-08-2008, 01:07 PM

Don't know if the line is a vacuum line, vent line or ??? for sure.

What I meant was take off the float bowl, and clean it, and the carb out with some carb cleaner spray, since old gas collects in there and turns to funk.

Weedylot · #8 12-08-2008, 01:19 PM

If the mystery hose comes off the top of the bowl area, it could be just an "overflow"/ vent line to the ground. Someone with a sharper mind than me would know.
Sometimes a fuel tank has a "pressure" hose running to it, but I think thatis only on 2 strokes. (Refer to my second sentence)

**Dave31** · #9 12-08-2008, 01:52 PM

Welcome to the forum

Saddletramp1200 · #10 12-08-2008, 01:58 PM

If the hose is on the bottom of the bowl it's a drain line. There will be a screw to open it.
It's a china bike, used to sell them. Check the jets as others have said, check the gas tank for flow. It should run. Those little starter motors are very fragile. Take it t an electric motor person. also do not over tighten it. The metal is weak and will break.