More out of a 20hp kawi engine

[9toe]

Hi guys, resently bought a 99 conquest, 900 hrs, can't get more than 2700 rpm under load,weak engine or bad clutching? Any ideas? Thanks.

[Mike]

Does the motor rev higher than that when you are in neutral? When you do rev it in neutral do the clutches fully engage?

[9toe]

In neutral & also in gear with the wheels off the gound I get up to 3500+rpm. The clutches both open and close. Any load and I'm down to 2500-2700rpm.

[Mike]

When you rev the motor in neutral or with the wheels off the ground does it seem like it has full power. Does it reach 3500 RPM pretty quickly? If not it may be a fuel / ignition issue. If it does you may want to check the compression on each cylinder.

[9toe]

Thanks mike, I'm couple weeks away from my compression tester, I read some of RD's posts on the kawi engine, sounds like I've got a tired engine, and o ya it does rev up quick enough w/out a load.
I wonder if their tuff or expensive to rebuild?

[Mike]

I've never rebuilt a Kawasaki. Perhaps one of the engine gurus can chime in but I don't imagine it is any more difficult than any other small engine. There really isn't too much to them once you get in there. I would think it would be much cheaper to rebuild it than to replace it unless you found a good deal somewhere on a motor, plus while you are in there you could boost the HP.

Before you do anything though, test the compression and see what it reads in both cylinders. That should tell the real story. Post back what you find in a few weeks.

[lewis]

While you waiting check the faces of the clutches for grooves. Engine off, Remove the drive belt and run your fingers up and down the clutch. If you feel dips in the face it may be time for a new set of clutches also.

[9toe]

Thanks guys,loving the Argo,would just like a little more on the hills, can't imagine 24in tires like RD has.