I have an ET3 that has about 100 miles on a rebuild. There were a couple of times early on where the kickstart did not engage when I kicked it. Right now it barely engages at all.
I have checked the clutch plates. They were a bit dry so I soaked them. This had no impact. I have adjusted the cable to both increase and decrease slack. This was ineffective.
Sometimes when I kick, the is no resistance at all. Usually there is a moderate amount of resistance, about a third to half of what I normally expect. Every once in a while, there is a just enough to kick it over. But not enough to get it started.

I did not build this engine. It was done by a guy who owns a shop that specializes in vintage.

I am open to suggestions. What should I check next?

Thanks

lengthen the clutch cable by 1/2 turn (clockwise) @ the adjuster and try kickstart
repeat until the kickstart works

if you go out too far and get to the point where the clutch lever is non-effective (scoot is running) then the issue is the spring behind the kickstart gear which provides the pressure to engage the kickstart lever when used... when that is missing you can lean your scoot over to the left whichn helps that gear engage and so alows the lickstart to work as all.

then check the plunger on the end of the clutch arm for wear since that can age fast if you ride while the clutch is not adjusted right = gets hot due to constant contact with clutch and deforms =

bes afe

Did you replace the kickstart gear in the rebuild?

Darin
'66 SS180

I soaked the clutch plates in oil to make sure that was not the issue. The plunger was not worn. I adjusted the cable a few times. None of this did the trick. The plates did not to too worn but I have ordered a new set and will see if that makes any difference. I am doubtful.

I tried the trick of learning the scooter to the left. That did not seem to make any difference.
I did not rebuild this engine. I have not rebuilt a small frame before, so I sent it off to a shop. The engine was rebuilt about year ago so getting details on what was replaced is difficult.

Given it's a small frame, try leaning it to the right.

My money says it's the kick start gear!

Darin
'66 SS180

describe the 'slipping'

is it smooth?
is it acompanied by a chunky noise?
etc?

Kick the kickstarter. Notice the feel.

Now disconnect the clutch cable cable altogether.

Kick the kickstarter again.

Feel any difference?

Yes. Your problem was an overtight clutch cable.

No. You've gotta go inside the motor.

update...
I pulled the clutch, asked the corks but not much of a change. The corks did look a little glazed. So I ordered a new set of corks. That seems to have taken care of it. It kicked strong s number of times.

Thanks for the input.