1954 Douglas MK5 that just won't start

[lovejoy]

Hi All,

I have a 1954 Douglas MK5 that just won't start.

It was running ok 12 months ago. I have checked everything. It has sparks, not brilliant but there are sparks. Carbs are clean and seem ok, new fuel, compression is down a bit on the right side. I have checked the timing from the Douglas book.

It is not even trying to fire.

Any ideas please? Is there something obvious I am missing?

Thanks in advance

Martin

[cardan]

Cobwebs? I know it sounds terribly old fashioned, but when my bikes won't start I push them down a hill!

Have fun,

Leon

[eddie]

Try starting it with the points cover removed. If it starts, check out the cutout button - most of them have a grub screw securing the cable - these can work loose and short out to the handlebars.

   Regards,
               Eddie.

[phil1]

Hi Martin Re no start can you flood both carbs with tickler? that is a must, have good spark at clean dry plugs, if you have open throttle 1/4 then should start like the clappers. Regards Phil.