Clinton A400 Issues
Moderator: Rob Voska
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Clinton A400 Issues
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.
Also, the engine has a Champion R8 plug in it. Is this the correct plug?
Thanks for any info.
Re: Clinton A400 Issues
Just take the side cover off & turn over by hand.
Hey it;s 60 years old, take it apart & clean it, new rope etc.....
Hey it;s 60 years old, take it apart & clean it, new rope etc.....
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues
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.
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues
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.
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.
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues
I saw somewhere that electronic ignition modules are available...Are these an option?
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues
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.
I use Stens part number 440-465. Buy a spare because the are known to fail with out warning.
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- Posts: 56
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues
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.....
Re: Clinton A400 Issues
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.
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.
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues
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.......
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.......
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- Posts: 297
- Joined: Sun Aug 12, 2007 9:36 am
- 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
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
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