New Doodle bug Question

#1
Hello all,

I'm new to the forum. I've purchased my first doodle bug for my son. I've been looking for something for a little while now and was lucky enough to stumble on a used one that just needed a spark plug boot...So I thought. Anyway, I get it home and install the the new plug and wire without a problem. Let me tell everyone that I'm not a mechanic. Anyway, I pull the cord, nothing.

Hmmm, what to do. I check a few things and find out that the throttle is sticking and spark plug has no spark. I fix these problems and proceed...Pull...nothing. Ugh :shrug:. I start researching on the internet and before I know it I have taken the carburetor apart 3 times and cleaned and checked it. Did I mention that I'm not a mechanic? :hammer: I have adjusted everything that I can think of.

When I spray start fluid in it she wants to turn over and does only to die just as quickly. I'm at a complete loss. I've replaced the fuel line, cleaned the gas tank, cleaned the carburetor, changed the spark plug and wire, cried, drank a few beers and skinned my knuckles. :censure: :confused: Man, I hope my kid appreciates this! Any suggestions?
 
#4
Thanks for the suggestion on the fuel but mine is labeled correctly. Fuel is getting into the bowl it's just not getting into the engine. I think the problem lies somewhere in the disbursement method of the carburetor.

After removing the bowl, in the center of the carburetor there is a tiny screw. I took it out and tried to crank it. The motor fired and actual idled and then died. Now, too much fuel is getting to the carb. I guess that screw is supposed to be there. I replaced it and now I'm back at square one. I'm ready to give up on this thing and just buy a new motor.

Any suggestions on a new motor or carb? If I have to get a new motor can I use the existing clutch or do I need to get a new one?

Thanks for all the advice.
 
#5
Thanks for the suggestion on the fuel but mine is labeled correctly. Fuel is getting into the bowl it's just not getting into the engine. I think the problem lies somewhere in the disbursement method of the carburetor.

After removing the bowl, in the center of the carburetor there is a tiny screw. I took it out and tried to crank it. The motor fired and actual idled and then died. Now, too much fuel is getting to the carb. I guess that screw is supposed to be there. I replaced it and now I'm back at square one. I'm ready to give up on this thing and just buy a new motor.

Any suggestions on a new motor or carb? If I have to get a new motor can I use the existing clutch or do I need to get a new one?

Thanks for all the advice.
Mine only ran with the choke set in the middle,and thats with the 2 motors I had,dont know why but it work:shrug:
 
#6
Hydraman dont despair!! Theres more threads than you can shake a stick at on the doodlebug section on adding a 6.5 hp motor!! Super cheap and reliable just catch it on sale at Harbor Freight usually $99.00 if your son can handle it! These things will throw you off like a bull kicked in the goodies if ya dont lean forward!! Get ya a 3/4" clutch (11 or 12 tooth)! Can be found right here at a great price at OldMiniBikes Warehouse! Also a good chain #35 will keep it from streching(RLV Extreme) Takes two boxes of 106 links and a good chain breaker!! Good luck!!:thumbsup:
 
#8
I would love to put a 6.5 on it for myself. However, I believe that would be a little too much power for my little one. If I can get the 2.8 running I think it will be a great start for him. I'm going to be working some more on the carb this evening. Keep your fingers crossed.
 
#9
Pretty sure you can adjust down the 6.5 engines speed,that away you can rid the ongoing problems of the inferior 2.8 and just ride and ride.This away the young-ins are steel safe and the DB is happy.

Good idea?
 
#11
Thanks for all of the suggestions. I tried re-working the carb with no luck. I'm giving up on this thing. From what I have been able to figure out it looks like there is a serious design flaw. I'm looking for a new carb to put on it. If that doesn't work then I guess I will have no choice but to pick up a new motor. Alas, the long labor day weekend has come and gone without a ride and now there is nothing but rain in sight. Lovely NE Ohio weather.
 

buckeye

Well-Known Member
#12
From all the post I have read concerning those engines, I wouldn't put any cash into a new carb. Just get ya another engine.
Watch Craigslist for a 3.5 or maybe even a 5hp and slap that on and don't waste anymore cash on the 2.8. Just my observations about these things.
 
#14
New engine

Hi, This might work with the same clutch that you have because it has a 5/8" shaft on it Predator 99 cc OHV Horizontal Shaft Gas Engine - Certified for All States Except California
I am almost 100% sure that the stock db30 clutch is a 5/8" so if it is this would work and should be fairly easy to install. I am going to get one of these for my db30 because my stock engine has the same problems that yours does. try to find a 20% off coupon code online and you'll be up and running for $111.
best of luck with your db30 and I hope this helps!
 
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