BMW Service - K bike cranks but won't start?

K bike cylinders lie flat (horizontal) and during long periods of storage the oil film in the cylinders goes away and leaves a dry, compression-less cylinder (s) and a K engine that will not start. Spark, fuel and compression. When one is missing it all goes to shit. Adding 10 cc of oil to each cylinder will create enough compression to allow the engine to start and oil to circulate, soon replacing the cylinders oil film that melted away during storage. The smoke from the added oil burns away quickly and K bikes are supposed to smoke anyway so go ride!

[@MrTurboTurkey]

You sir, are becoming the Christopher Walken of motorcycle maintenance. Love the videos man!

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Thanks!

[@jsprite123]

More like the Bob Ross of Motorcycling (make that the out-takes Bob Ross, sprinkled with a few cursings here and there thrown in for good measure). PS: Love this guy and all his practical and valuable knowledge!

[@AdventuresWithMe00]

I don't have a K bike, I will never have a K bike, but this was worth watching.

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Thanks!

[@as17ns22]

I had this same problem a couple of years ago. I changed the plugs entirely and that seemed to solve it. I never thought of putting a shot of oil in there. Good to know!

[@NickMasseyRideon]

lol informative and highly entertaining as usual. keep them coming Chris

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Thanks, there's more as time allows!

[@raybrensike42]

I waited for 3 days to start mine because as I had been working on replacing torn breather hose, Y pipe, and some cracked fuel lines, having the air box off, I decided to spray some carb cleaner into the throttle bodies. Prob'ly don't want to do that unless you take them off, though I thought it to be an OK idea thinking it might also help clean some valve deposits also. But this flooded the engine, so I would try a start, then try it again another day. I did put some two stroke oil in each cyl, thinking I had washed the cyl's out. It still barely started on the 3rd day. I should have blown out each cyl with air or something. Anyway, no more air leaks apparently. It runs better than ever before. All the ping is gone, even with lower grade octane. The Y pipe is important. If it's torn, it's worth the price in gas savings, I'm sure. I haven't checked my mileage yet, but somewhere I had lost at least 10 MPG. Blame that on dirty injectors sure. That's fair, but a torn Y pipe will rob you too, in a big way. I did replace the fuel injector O-rings with the brown ones and ran cleaner through each one, off the bike too. Those hoses are worth replacing when they leak, for sure. Really runs good now. Having been through the spline lube drill, and the steering head bearing replacement, I've found that I can do a lot of other things also. Thanks Chris. I'm not a rich man, but I do believe I owe you. I have trouble keeping the speed down now.

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Thanks for writing Ray!

[@goober650NX]

I really like that tip. It has a sort of retro, old school feel about it. One that a seasoned journeyman would know. Quite an atmospheric video.😉

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Thank you.

[@malcolmdobson1244]

spot on Chris what a gem..

[@gzaha]

Chris... You saved me a truckload of painkillers. I was banging my head against the wall. Great tip!!!

[@eddisc4205]

('88K75c & '92 K75RTA) would it work & produce less smoke to crank b4 putting the plugs back in?? THANKS

[@alexmur5751]

we love youu from Russia with love!

[@ChrisR.Harris]

And back to you from this place, Alex!

[@dontabor1036]

What if you just put it on the side stand, mine always smoked when I parked for long on the side stand😊

[@pshivjee]

Excellent job 👏 👍

[@efrainrosario779]

Hi Chris, Are you still around? I'm a 71 year young Army veteran and I have a 2013 F800r that's been sitting for over two years and won't start. the same with a 2004 R1150rt. Unfortunately, I can not ride any more due to inguinal hernias so I have to sell both bikes. What should I do for them to start? I'm moving from South to North Florida in four days and would like to sell them before I move. I need a miracle, I know. Please help! Thank you.

[@lex1945]

That was EPIC!

[@danhix1371]

awesome video! thanks so much. I'm having a bit of a problem with my k75 and was wondering if you had any thoughts. (I'm not a mechanic, just learning on my first project bike). Something is happening with the rear end of the bike. The back wheel feels "loose" and like it's slipping when I make turns. The wheel is connected correctly to the bike, and I am experiencing a "wobble" on the back end when making slight turns in the road. Any thoughts? Thanks again for the great videos

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Dan, check that the rear wheel is properly mounted. Place the bike on its center stand and spin the rear wheel or start the engine and let it idle in neutral while the wheel spins slowly. Look for any indication that the wheel has a wobble. If nothing can be seen and all looks straight and tight I would suspect a defective tire. A separated belt will make for a wobbly ride. May it be so simple. Good Luck, Chris

[@danhix1371]

@@ChrisR.Harris Thanks Chris! fingers crossed that it's such an easy fix. Hope your well ya legend!

[@willievanderschyf1817]

@@danhix1371 Were you able to fix it? What was the problem?

[@danhix1371]

@@willievanderschyf1817 my wife and i had our first kid about 8 months ago so I haven't had more than 10 minutes to myself to do projects. hopefully soon he will be a bit more agreeable to taking naps and I'll get some weekend freedom back

[@chrischi783]

You german is pefect! 1-2-3 🖒

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Ja!

[@shaymcquaid]

thanks

[@dustinpuhrmann1161]

Chris, If park my 85 k100RT on its side stand can I accomplish the same thing?

[@GIGABACHI]

So . . . what's called for here ? Engine refresh or a good old fashioned Italian Tune Up ?

[@robertotto3983]

"Fuck it" is most often used term in our shop also

[@ChrisR.Harris]

:)

[@francescos6101]

you master man !!!!!!

[@dexterhines7907]

Will this method work on any bike with low compression

[@farfartony751]

Love the gas mask.

[@mattholsbeke4354]

Chris, I have a question for you. My K75s just started blowing the fuel pump fuse............ The idle as started idling a tab slower. Any suggestions? Thanks.

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Hi matt, replace the fuel pump: www.beemerboneyard.com/fupufupuki.html Good luck.

[@kosta16auto]

Awesome!

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Thanks!

[@natasjavanderkooij2883]

What kind of motor oil did you use ?

[@debensz]

Does this work on Airhead?

[@elay1393]

Hi I have a 1988 k100 in was running great , then 3 days later it stopped ,I put in new spark plugs battery is fully charged , still nothing , what should I do?

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Check for spark.

[@TheRealPafnucy]

What about an R tupe (the BMW R 1150 R)? Same thing?

[@ChrisR.Harris]

No, the K75 - K1100 models were the only ones with this issue. Does not apply to R bikes of any / all models. Take care, Chris

[@simong5227]

Hi Chris! I love your videos! They are fun to watch over a popcorn and beer! Did you ever service a K1 bike? How different is it with K1100RS?

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Of course, same drivetrain, different plastic.

[@adolfemmanuelesparas3922]

A love a teacher/mechanic who is so chill when teaching something.. makes learning easier

[@fostexfan160]

My K1100LT has been laid up in the garage for a few years. This is a great piece of technical advice if it doesn't start this summer. Another great video Chris. Hope you are well doing good. Respect from U.K

[@Miata822]

My K1200RS runs fine. I just can't find an autobahn to ride it on.

[@TexMag24]

“Are you ready for this shit?” My favorite K-Bike servicing videos. Subscribed. Have a few questions if you could help.

[@kc2shw]

I watch you Chris not only for the knowledge but for the blunt object jokes that make sense in every aspect.

[@rasoulsadeghi8635]

Mine was fine but after 6 month of not starting in staying in a garage, now even with new battery cannot be started.

[@jaorg121]

My 1993 BMW K1100 has no compression, it started normally, until one morning it didn't start anymore, could what you did work?... greetings and thanks!

[@smackbikeNZ]

Wow, this just worked for me!!! What a legend.

[@bluemask32]

Are ypu fuckin serious! Thank you. Been trying to start my k100 for 2 weeks now! I'll try this thisevening. Many thanks.

[@mdv4190]

Had good hopes this would be it on my '87 K100RS but sadly the bike still doesn't run.. It was a running bike when I put it in the garage now two years later she won't start. The plugs spark, fuel pump still works

[@bsbrum]

The down-votes crack me up. What, did his language offend you? LOL This advice has kept probably thousands of hard-earned kopecks out of the pockets of the stealerships, and on top of that, it was free advice from an expert tech. What is there to dislike? Good grief.

[@richardmiddagh6539]

So he put some oil in each cylinder head to get the bike to start again! I’m just wondering if I can do the same process on my k1200LT and get the same result! I believe my fuel pump just shit the bed also, anyone care to comment please?

[@jhdemi1979]

BMW doesn't have any quality control in their cars, their bikes, thank God they don't make airplanes any anymore!

[@user-db2du6kx7s]

Would this work for bmw R1100 rs, I've been banging my head for two days

[@oliviermaresch4395]

You're a hero Chris, The old lady scared me after her long nap...

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Don't let her nap so long next time!

[@stuartjohnston1086]

Good video and explains my 1st K bike experience. I bought a 93 K1100RS that had stood in a garage for 8 years. With a new battery it would crank but not fire. Took it home in a van and when unloaded it fired right up no problem. I guess the oil had moved about enough to coat the cylinders. After a good service and new tyres etc I rode this for a few years. Sold it with 73k on it and the current owner is now up to 120k. It's had a clutch and the ABS has long since died but it still rides well.

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Thank you for writing, Stuart. Stay tuned for more, Chris

[@Idotooby]

Thank you! This video saved me a lot of frustration. After changing the oil, cleaning the sprag through the crankcase cover, I got to this step. First time dealing with compression and your video was spot on. Thanks again!

[@lanksterprice]

I have a K.... and never have that problem... I ride 90% of the year... my bike sits no more then 2 weeks and thats during my winter maintenance time..

[@unedian]

You are a magician. I knew my bike just needed a little bit of love after the winter. But specifically this was golden, never would’ve thought of this.

[@samuelrevay7620]

Thanks mate, it worked like magic for my k100, I smell like a hobo from the fumes, but the bike runs well. I send you all my love for this amazing advice!

[@ChrisR.Harris]

You're welcome and I wish you luck!

[@johnsfolly]

Catching up on the latest. Great to see you back on the screen keeping my '91 K75RT the finest-running ratbike in the midwest.

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Thanks for writing!

[@davidjacobson7305]

So why would compression be down? Does this mean bad things are on the horizon for this bike?

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Hi David, The cylinders are lying on their sides and the oil runs down the cylinder walls leaving the surface bare = loss of compression. Engine could have zero use and suffer the same. Add oil and go! Stay tuned for more soon, Chris

[@tincanfilms]

Same cranks but no start but only sat for 24 hrs

[@richardknott2021]

Is this a normal problem with these machines..

[@46MOTO46]

I bought a K100, how to ride it?

[@ChrisR.Harris]

MOTO 46; Smoothly! I will teach that but it'll be a few months before it is on video. Stay tuned; there'll be more soon, Chris

[@MultiArrie]

bit of oil in the cilinder that works also with a original fiat 500 engine.

[@chriselhardt3264]

at many startups, particularly after sitting on the side stand, mine smokes like it's electing the pope anyway.

[@vladimirkhristov4653]

Sounds like valve guide seals, which is a common problem on K-bikes. Other than replacing them, either keep it on the center stand, or lean it to the right for 10 seconds after you turn off the engine to drain the oil away from them.

[@dariuszszewczulak6725]

It was so simple, thanks.

[@levisosa9908]

I was ridding in the Hwy and all of the sudden, My K100RS 1991- lower gear box started to make odd sound... I was thinking I hit something on the road but pulled off the Hwy and nothing was out of order... So I put my K100RS in the trailer and took it home... has ANYONE experienced anything like this...What can it be... I really need some advice!!! Thanks ya'll

[@howardludwig9715]

Thanks for the great tip Chris. I have an '85 K100RT still on the road due in part to all your videos and a Clymer manual. Bought an "04 R1150RT last fall. Clutch reservoir was way overfull. Used your Video and two manuals to check clutch and spline lube. Clutch still at 80% thickness. Some previous yahoo overfilled the reservoir. All buttoned up, back on the road. Only one 10 MM bolt leftover, hmmm. Now what to do with the new clutch plate I bought from Beemerboneyard.

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Keep the R1150 clutch for when the splines fail! Then ride the KRT ;)

[@howardludwig9715]

splines were dry as dry is possible. 56000 miles. splines in neat perfect shape. I got lucky i guess.

[@krispihlak9265]

Amazing. Great vid!

[@michaelnachoescamilla6241]

I have kind of what is the same problem with my '92 K100RS. It died while riding. I found that one of the coils is not firing. I have no idea where to go from there. So, the bike sits..

[@bobbishop9339]

Good info. I have an 02 rt. What do you use to remove the plug wires?

[@ChrisR.Harris]

www.beemerboneyard.com/83300401700.html

[@EggNogOnYourFace]

Hey chris, will this trick work on a Vulcan 900? Thanks!

[@ChrisR.Harris]

I do not know and Leonard Nemoy is dead. Sorry, but I did not do it. ;)

[@dthasantaslidere]

Hey Chris, I own a 1993 K1100LT (cafe racer) and I have the same issue. The only thing is I didn't ride my bike for only the last 3 weeks, until then it worked just fine. I checked the fuel, battery, oil and spark plugs everything is working fine. I tried this method but the only thing happening is oil coming out of the exhaust. The engine roars sometimes that it makes me believe it's going to start but it wont. It would be a realy big help if you could guide me.

[@tsav6952]

About a K1300GT? Cranks over fine but doesn't start. Been sitting awhile on a battery tender. Could it be the same issue for the K1300GT? Thanks!

[@DullishTick]

Does this also work with a k100rt 4 valve??? Need answer ASAP please!!

[@brendanwiggins1942]

What to do if this doesn't work? I've got a 96 k1100 that really doesn't wanna turn over

[@BS32768]

Very late comment, but could you tell me the name of the tool you were using first with the allen and then with the spark plug socket? Looks very handy.

[@ryoichinakamura1295]

Is that what it's meant to do because the cylinders are horizontal? Usually if it's the case with typical engine we say "piston ring is worn".

[@valmirberisha5232]

Hi, I have this problem on a Triumph. Would this technique work on triumph too?

[@aphillips66]

Hi, Chris!!

[@haxoraxe]

4:20 length of video hahaah chris u are super cool

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Thanks Jimbo!

[@iamtrece4851]

Hello Chris. I sent you an email. Hope you can give time to respond. Thanks!

[@canadianloon6433]

Did it smoke for the length of a cigarette or a pack? Brilliant.

[@tech408]

Thanks Chris, Real happy to see you back in front of the camera!!!

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Thank you Alfred, it's taken a while but here I am! More videos soon.

[@tech408]

That's really great news!!! Thank you!

[@bikerboysmotorcyclegarage5297]

Hey how are you? I have bmw k1100rs 96 a small question if i switch ignition switch on the ON the fuel pump working unstoppable is it normal ?

[@ChrisR.Harris]

No

[@alanjarrett1560]

Chris k100rs replaced fuel pump and the two rubber petrol pipes. Fuel belting out of the filter with ignition switched on. Reconnected to metal pipe in tank. Bike cranks but won't start. Cleaned spark plugs all sparking. Tried oil in cylinders no joy except oiling up plugs.Cleaned plugs skirted petrol in cylinders with limited firing /backfiring still not running.Please any other thoughts.

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Is the fuel hose pinched?

[@gemmintrips2377]

Hey Chris what does it mean when you have to constantly do this to get the bike to start? I replaced the oil/water pump with a used one. Any ideas?

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Stuck rings causing loss of compression would be my first guess.

[@bushcraftidaho3593]

Chris I'm hoping you can give me some advice. i have a stripped valve cover bolt on 2002 r1150rt. your thoughts on heli coils and maybe some tips would help! this is my first beemer and I have changed air filter, oil and filter,new tires, spark plugs adjusted valves,replaced bulbs. I really like your videos! thanks, you the man! oh yeah i got rid of the charcoal filter too!

[@ChrisR.Harris]

I use Time-Serts but you won't find them easily or affordably. Go with the Heli-Coil repair for now. Tighten covers by hand with a t-handle, just snug. The threads were probably mostly stripped from previous paws. Good luck.

[@arai6147]

dear lord you saved my head from exploding! thank you so much

[@tonylintonylintony]

Sorry Chris ! i have a question to ask. i have a K100 bike and it has one problem with starting. It starts to crank but every time i start it after a while , it would fry my 7.5 fuel pump fuse. was just wondering what could cause that problem. Thanks !

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Hi Tony, I'm on the road with limited internet access so answers are slow. I'd replace the fuel pump. Good luck.

[@MegaCma1]

Hi Chris, an incredible video I have the same problem as that bike. Do you add 10cc of engine oil or a different one? Thank you very much for your video.

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Engine oil

[@o.l.6964]

Wow! I always appreciate when someone knows their shit! Respect!

[@paulrackley5326]

sending love and thoughts from my 31yr old k75s and myself getting ready for isle of man classic this year. thank you for making these ""f%£$ing videos"" Chris....Paul UK

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Hello Paul, thanks for writing such a wonderful fucking note, Cheers Mate!

[@lanksterprice]

You ask?? "What do you do"... We Call Chris and he makes it all better.... See Chris we are smart... First guy I can trust with my baby...

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Thanks, Lankster!

[@rosacastillo5268]

I’m having problems turning on my 2000bmw r1100rtp do I do the same ? But I might have low battery as well it started this morning and then I forgot to let it warm up and killed it now it won’t start only crack over no start

[@ChrisR.Harris]

No, the oilheads are different. You need to charge your battery or replace it probably. Good luck, Chris

[@CaptainDave2010]

have you got a link to the K1200 LT ..no start (nothing) when you push the starter button ..? -u r soooo smart - good vid's ;)

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Which LT?

[@andy-pk2pe]

Hi Chris, Do you have any idea what a nasty rattle at the very front of k75 engine might be? the front left . It doesnt smoke. uses very little oil , accelerates very well and only done 105,000 miles

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Pull the front cover and look at the cam chain and its tensioner.

[@pinoyams]

Hi thanks for the video so long story short my Honda grom engine was just rebuilt I hooked up everything to the frame I go to start the bike it just makes the noise the bike in his video does. I checked the spark plug and t does have spark when I turn the ignition key on I hear the fuel pump making a noise so that should be okay too. So I'm assuming it doesn't have enough compression to start should I just add oil like you did in the video ?

[@ChrisR.Harris]

I know nothing about Honda Grom.

[@andylaye6216]

Hey. I just bought one of those that’s been sat since 2008 in a shed. I got a new battery today, but any advice please would be grateful!

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Congratulations, andy! Go to www.beemerboneyard.com/ Get a starter relay, fuel pump, fuel hoses and filter. Clean out the fuel tank, change the pump, filter and hoses, replace battery and relay and check the airbox for rodents and / or their home. See if it starts and runs well. If so, you've found a keeper! Good luck, Chris

[@Finklar]

In an ideal world you would be still working on air heads and live in Wales (UK) finding a mechanic for my bike is really hard, but I love watching your videos, Iv'e learnt loads xx

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Thanks for including me in your ideal world!

[@susanbuckland2329]

Okay, here goes.....I have an 86' K75 I just learned (what do I know, not a lot that's for sure) that it was best to change the oil when you put your bike to bed for the winter. So, I've never done that...but thought I'd try. Today it is going to be a balmy 65 degrees in MA... SO Today was to be The Day I'd give it a go by myself! Out to the garage I head this morning and damn...She won't turn over.....battery is charged but she doesn't want to kick in. Should I try adding oil to the cylinders OR a gas treatment.....OR.... should I call MAXBMW and have them come rescue my bike before I get myself and my Lil K into trouble?? Please don't patronize....I am an Older Woman just tryin to learn. Thanks

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Hello Susan, I can help. You state that it does not turn over; more specifics, please. Does nothing happen when the key is on and the starter button is depressed? [e-mail] for my assistance, Chris

[@susanbuckland2329]

@@ChrisR.Harris thanks Chris, I sent you an email

[@ChrisR.Harris]

@@susanbuckland2329 I replied today; 16 January.

[@fabianoliver3939]

Thanks for the video, i've seen all of them, you help me to maintain my 75C, in Uruguay!, ja!. Never stops. You rock. Thanks.

[@ChrisR.Harris]

You are welcome Fabian, more videos from me as soon as I get where we're going. Take care.

[@metodyx7507]

Hallo Chris, nice to have you!!!! :) My K100 rs 16v 1991 went out while driving. The petrol pump make sounds, the engine does not start, cranks but won't start What should I do? When I checked connectors for previous problems, they were rusted...Thank you for any advice in advance !! thank youuuuu :)

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Hello, you stated "...checked connectors for previous problems, they were rusted" - Which connections were rusted? Does it have spark? Is the fuel pump making noise?

[@metodyx7507]

Oooo..He's already here :))) Almost all connectors underneath the tank I've already replaced those to the pump, and the pump is ok, it makes noise!! I have not checked sparks yet, I waited for your advice :)

[@jamesridings512]

Ran out of fuel now my bike floods, new injectors same problem. What checks should I do

[@1967250s]

Glad to see you still at it. Looks like you have plenty of work, too. Of All things, never would've thought of a compression problem with that nice a bike. All the best!

[@ChrisR.Harris]

Thanks!

[@bushcraftidaho3593]

I'll ride more anyway! Guys gotta have a dream😎

[@ScottGiese]

I am ready for this 💩 !!

[@izman20]

You are my guru.

[@ChrisR.Harris]

That's a lot of responsibility!

[@39Banana39]

I suspect he's a little crazy, a little genius