Clinton A400 Issues

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Timothy Klatte
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Clinton A400 Issues

Post by Timothy Klatte » Sat Dec 15, 2018 10:37 pm

I just got a Clinton A400 from Craigslist-cheap. It has a sticking recoil that prevents me from testing it for spark, etc. How do I free up the recoil?
Also, the engine has a Champion R8 plug in it. Is this the correct plug?
Thanks for any info.

Rob Voska
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by Rob Voska » Sun Dec 16, 2018 9:59 am

Just take the side cover off & turn over by hand.
Hey it;s 60 years old, take it apart & clean it, new rope etc.....

Timothy Klatte
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by Timothy Klatte » Sun Dec 16, 2018 10:23 am

Thanks Rob-actually, the recoil pulls out fine-it just hesitates to retract. It will if you help it a bit. I'm just afraid to take it apart-even though that's all it will need, probably. I just don't want the thing to fly apart like so many others.......But I agree-if it doesn't fly apart, I think it just needs cleaned.

Terry Sullivan
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by Terry Sullivan » Sun Dec 16, 2018 11:43 am

Like Rob says, no rocket science, just messy.
I recommend gloves and glasses.
Very likely you will have to pull the spring out and clean/lube it.
The tricky part is putting it back together - getting the 'reel' engaged with the spring.

Timothy Klatte
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by Timothy Klatte » Sun Dec 16, 2018 1:15 pm

I saw somewhere that electronic ignition modules are available...Are these an option?

roger santee
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by roger santee » Sun Dec 16, 2018 6:15 pm

Yes the module is an option. I use them on my Clintons. Any small engine repair shop should be able to get them for you.
I use Stens part number 440-465. Buy a spare because the are known to fail with out warning.

Timothy Klatte
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by Timothy Klatte » Sun Dec 16, 2018 6:57 pm

Thanks Roger. I am a total newbie to A400s and it looks like I'm gonna have to tear this one down (somewhat) and install a new ignition. I found a gas tank-I'm still looking for an exhaust manifold. And the carb hasn't been checked yet........Well, I needed a new project.....

REAR
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by REAR » Sun Dec 16, 2018 7:07 pm

Tim,

Before you go ripping into your recoil, remove it from the motor and spray same penetrating oil around the bushing in the center. Usually when they won't retract short of a broken spring a dry or dirty bushing is the culprit.

R.E.A.R.

Timothy Klatte
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by Timothy Klatte » Sun Dec 16, 2018 7:20 pm

Thanks-that's what I thought. I put some PB Blaster in there....but I might put some more in. It seems to retract when you "help" it a bit......
I have another question-since we were discussing ignition modules, is there a decent replacement for the original coil? Now, I want everyone to know-I haven't even taken anything apart yet. Just looking ahead. Thanks for all advice. This thing is gonna run again.......

Terry Sullivan
Posts: 295
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Vintage Karting items owned: 4 Bugs, including the Wasp bought by my Dad in 1959. Many Clintons and a few Macs
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Location: Cumming, GA

Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by Terry Sullivan » Sun Dec 16, 2018 9:41 pm

The coils are pretty reliable.
There are a few styles, so if you really need one, post a photo.
New points are a must if you don't use a module.
There are a few different styles of points as well.
As Brian said, the module can fail and they only work with the right polarity.
If you aren't getting spark with a module, try reversing the connections.
I have pretty much all you might need.
Shoot me a message if you can't find something.
Welcome to the Clinton club!

terry

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