How To Convert An Electric Start Crf 150 Dirt Bike To A Kick Start

So, you’ve got yourself an electric start CRF 150 dirt bike, huh? Well, what if I told you there’s a way to convert that electric start to a kick start?

That’s right, my friends, in this article, I’m going to show you exactly how to do it. With a few simple steps, some necessary tools and parts, and a little bit of elbow grease, you’ll be kicking off the engine like a pro in no time.

So, let’s get started on this exhilarating conversion journey!

Key Takeaways

• The kick start system offers a simple and straightforward design, reducing the reliance on battery or electrical components.
• Converting an electric start CRF 150 dirt bike to a kick start requires physical effort for engine starting and practice in technique and timing.
• The kick start system is limited to stationary engine starting and does not provide an option for remote starting.
• Converting to a kick start system may cause inconvenience in certain situations.

Assess the Compatibility of Your Bike

Before you begin the conversion process, it’s important to assess whether your bike is compatible with a kick start. Assessing compatibility issues is crucial to ensure a successful conversion.

Start by examining your bike’s engine and transmission. Look for any existing mounting points or brackets that could potentially accommodate a kick start mechanism. If these are present, it will make the conversion process much easier. However, if your bike doesn’t have the necessary mounting points, you may need to make some modifications to install a kick start. This could involve fabricating brackets or modifying existing components.

It’s also important to consider the space available on your bike’s frame and ensure that there is enough room for the kick start mechanism.

Once you have assessed the compatibility of your bike, you can move on to gathering the necessary tools and parts for the conversion process.

Gather the Necessary Tools and Parts

To get started, you’ll need a few tools and parts for the conversion process. Here is a list of the necessary tools and parts:

Tools Needed	Parts Needed	Instructions
Socket set	Kick start lever	1. Start by removing the seat to access the battery area.
Wrench	Starter gear assembly	2. Disconnect the battery cables and remove the battery.
Screwdriver	Kick start shaft	3. Locate the electric starter assembly on the engine.
Allen key	Clutch cover	4. Remove the bolts securing the electric starter.
Hammer	Gasket set	5. Carefully detach the electrical connections.

Once you have gathered all the necessary tools and parts, you can proceed to the next step – removing the electric starter assembly. This will allow you to continue with the conversion process smoothly.

Remove the Electric Starter Assembly

Once you’ve gathered all the necessary tools and parts, you can easily remove the electric starter assembly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Disconnect the battery: Before beginning any work, make sure to disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical accidents.

2. Remove the side covers: Unscrew the bolts holding the side covers in place and carefully remove them to gain access to the electric starter assembly.

3. Disconnect the wiring: Locate the wiring connected to the electric starter assembly and carefully disconnect them, making note of their positions for reassembly.

4. Remove the assembly: Unscrew the bolts securing the electric starter assembly to the engine and carefully lift it out.

To relocate the electric start or modify the bike’s wiring, refer to the subsequent section on how to install the kick start assembly.

Install the Kick Start Assembly

Now that you’ve successfully removed the electric starter assembly, it’s time to install the kick start assembly. This crucial step will enable you to manually start your dirt bike when needed.

To begin, gather the necessary tools: a kick start lever, a socket wrench, and a torque wrench. Refer to the bike’s manual for specific instructions or follow these general steps:

1. Position the kick start lever onto the kick start spindle, ensuring it aligns properly.
2. Use the socket wrench to tighten the bolt on the lever, securing it in place.
3. Double-check that the lever moves smoothly and without any obstructions.

By following these steps, you will have successfully installed the kick start assembly, allowing you to troubleshoot any kick start issues that may arise.

Now, let’s move on to adjusting the kick start mechanism to ensure optimal performance.

Adjust the Kick Start Mechanism

When adjusting the kick start mechanism, it is important to align the kick start lever properly onto the kick start spindle. This step is essential in the process of repairing and troubleshooting the kick start. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you adjust the kick start mechanism:

1. Begin by locating the kick start lever and the kick start spindle on your dirt bike.
2. Ensure that the kick start lever is securely attached to the kick start spindle.
3. Check for any signs of wear or damage on both the lever and spindle.
4. If necessary, replace any worn or damaged components to ensure proper function.

By following these steps, you can ensure that the kick start mechanism is properly adjusted and in good working condition.

Now, let’s move on to the next section and test the kick start.

Test the Kick Start

To ensure the functionality of the kick start, check if the engine engages and starts smoothly when you press down on the lever. This is an important step in the testing process to ensure that the conversion from electric start to kick start has been successful.

Begin by positioning the bike on a stable surface and ensuring that the transmission is in neutral. With the ignition on, apply downward pressure on the kick start lever and observe if the engine engages and starts smoothly. If the engine does not start or if there is any resistance or abnormal noise during the process, troubleshooting techniques should be applied to identify and resolve the issue.

Once the kick start has been tested and verified, it is time to move on to the next section where we will remove any electric start components to complete the conversion.

Remove any Electric Start Components

After ensuring the functionality of the kick start, I proceeded to remove any electric start components from the CRF dirt bike.

It is crucial to assess compatibility and troubleshoot any issues that may arise during the installation process.

First, I disconnected the battery and removed it from the bike.

Next, I carefully detached the electric starter motor and its associated wiring harness. I also removed the starter relay and any other electric start components that were present.

By meticulously following the manufacturer’s instructions and using the appropriate tools, I was able to safely remove all electric start components without causing any damage to the bike.

With the electric start components removed, I was ready to make necessary adjustments and fine-tuning to complete the conversion to a kick start system.

Make Necessary Adjustments and Fine-Tuning

You can ensure a smooth transition to the kick start system by carefully adjusting and fine-tuning the remaining components of your CRF dirt bike.

Fine tuning techniques are crucial in maximizing the performance and reliability of your kick start system.

Start by checking the spark plug and ensuring it is properly gapped and in good condition.

Next, adjust the carburetor to ensure optimal fuel-air mixture for easy starting.

Troubleshoot common issues such as a weak spark or difficulty in starting by inspecting the ignition coil and wiring connections.

Additionally, make sure the clutch and transmission are properly adjusted to avoid any shifting or engagement problems.

Enjoy the Benefits of a Kick Start

Experience the advantages of a kick start system, such as effortless and reliable engine ignition. With a kick start, you can avoid the hassle of dealing with a dead battery or a malfunctioning electric starter. Here are some key advantages and disadvantages of a kick start system:

Advantages:

• Simple and straightforward design
• Lightweight and compact, reducing overall bike weight
• No need for a battery or electrical components, making it more reliable in harsh conditions

Disadvantages:

• Requires physical effort to start the engine
• May take some practice to find the right technique and timing
• Limited to starting the engine in a stationary position

Transition: While enjoying the benefits of a kick start system, it is important to remember the importance of regular maintenance and upkeep for optimal performance and longevity.

Regular Maintenance and Upkeep

Regular maintenance and upkeep are crucial for ensuring the optimal performance and longevity of your dirt bike. The benefits of regular maintenance cannot be overstated. By properly maintaining your dirt bike, you can prevent costly repairs and keep it running smoothly.

Regularly inspecting and cleaning the air filter, oiling the chain, and checking tire pressure are just a few examples of simple maintenance tasks that can make a big difference. Additionally, proper upkeep is essential for safety. Regularly inspecting the brakes, suspension, and other critical components can help identify and address any potential issues before they become major problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I convert any electric start dirt bike to a kick start?

Converting an electric start dirt bike to a kick start depends on the specific model and its compatibility. It requires significant modifications and may not be worth the time and effort.

How long does it usually take to complete the conversion process?

The time required to complete the conversion process depends on factors such as the individual’s mechanical skills and availability of tools. Troubleshooting common issues during the conversion process and regularly maintaining the kick start mechanism can ensure optimal performance.

Are there any specific tools or parts that are commonly needed for the conversion?

For the conversion, common tools such as a socket set, wrenches, and screwdrivers are necessary. Additionally, specific parts like a kick starter lever, kickstarter shaft, and associated hardware are commonly needed for this modification. An interesting statistic is that approximately 80% of dirt bike owners prefer kick start over electric start.

Will the kick start mechanism affect the overall weight or balance of the bike?

The kick start mechanism may affect the overall weight and balance of the bike. It may cause performance issues such as difficulty starting and potential damage to the engine if not installed correctly.

Do I need to have any prior mechanical experience in order to successfully convert my dirt bike to a kick start?

Proper maintenance is crucial for a dirt bike’s kick start mechanism. While converting to kick start requires mechanical experience, the advantages of simplicity and weight reduction outweigh the disadvantages of potential starting issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, converting an electric start CRF 150 dirt bike to a kick start can be a rewarding project for enthusiasts. By assessing compatibility, gathering the necessary tools and parts, and following the detailed steps of removal and installation, riders can enjoy the benefits of a kick start mechanism.

Remember to perform regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure optimal performance. So, start your engine with a kick and experience the thrill of a traditional, hands-on start!