Ether starting fluid

[tmar04]

Does anyone know of any bad issues from occasional use of ether, or other starting spray, for a 'hard to start' shadow on a cold day? I don't mean every day, I mean just one spray in the intake area ever once in a while. works like a charm for me, and much easier on battery and starter. tks to all.

[cblack6540]

i dont use starting fluid on my dirtbikes anymore, i use wd-40 safer and starts just as good and also lubricates..

[Nehalem Dave]

More volatile than vaporized gas, it shouldn't have any effect from the occasional spurt. I have a nagging concern that it might overstress pistons but have no proof of that. We only use it on stuff we don't care about: an ancient Craftsman mower and a stored generator.

Take it as a sign that your choke may be in need of cleaning, especially if you find yourself using it more often.

[cl65ame]

If you need starting fluid for it then there is something wrong. My bike will start with no issues at -10 deg C

[jpr1968]

A well maintained bike should not need anything to help it start. Either well foul the carbs if you use it too much.

[cl65ame]

I am not sure it will do anything to the carbs but it will burn rings and melt pistons if used to excess since it burns far hotter than Gas

[oblivion_twister]

something is wrong with your carbs if you need ether to start you bike.

[Offday]

Best to just get a spray bottle and keep a little gas in it. ether isn't really "bad"
it just developed a bad reputation because people used to use it to start old cold blooded "Two Stroke" bikes......Bad idea, a two stroke gets it's piston lubricatinon from the oil you mix in the gas.

The other advantages ether has over gas, is excess evaporates very quickly, so if it runs out the carb it's not just laying on the engine.
And, if your bike has a weak spark the ether is "gonna" fire off.

Other than that, sounds like you may have carb issues that need to be addressed.
Could be a simple choke adjustment is all it "really" needs.

[byggd]

Ether burns VERY hot and can have a negative affect on exhaust valves and the color of your pipes if used in excess.

[tmar04]

thanks to everyone for the educational replies. I suspect 'choke' problems, but a little hesitant about repairs. Do u have to remove tank to access the choke valve, or can u simply raise tank? this is on a 85 VT1100C, /bike runs great once warmed up. just a nuisance whe temp 50 or below. any advice on cleaning this choke welcome. tks again to all of u guys.