FAQs - Mud Buddy Motors

Q: How Do I Adjust The Valves?

Remove the valve cover. Remove the spark plug, put finger on plug hole and turn over the engine until you feel the compression stroke air pressure. Turn the flywheel to close both valves. Insert a narrow screwdriver into the spark plug hole and touch the piston. Turn the flywheel clockwise past top dead center until the piston has moved down 1/4". Use the screwdriver to gauge the piston's range of motion. PLEASE NOTE: This procedure must be performed for each cylinder on V-Twin engines. Check the valve clearance by placing a feeler gauge between the valve head and the rocker arm. Clearances differ for the two valves and typically range from .002 - .004" to .005 - .007". Valve clearance specifications for your engine series are available by viewing our Engine Specifications Chart (pdf). Adjust the clearances as required by turning the rocker screw. Once adjustments are completed, tighten the rocker nut. Install the valve cover, using new gaskets, as required, and make sure the cover is secure.

Q: I Have Excessive Vibration, Loose Bolts, Cracks & Gaskets Leaking

The one most single thing you can do to prevent your motor from shaking to pieces, loose bolts, cracks and gasket leaks is to ensure your propeller is not worn, bent or out of balance. If so, replace it immediately. Check by revving the engine to full throttle in a safe manner. Observe the skeg and front of the engine. If it begins to vibrate excessively after 2500 rpm, and especially at 4300 rpm, change the propeller immediately.

Q: My Engine Stalls At Idle, Or Cuts Out At High Speeds

Several basic items should be checked. First, is the fuel tank full of fuel and vent open? Water in fuel or excessive amounts in water separator? Your engine should idle between 1250 and 1450 for stock motors and 1000 to 1200 for Mikuni aftermarket engines. Is the fuel line pinched from a heavy object sitting on the line, or is a tight connection restricting flow? Are there cracks in the line or connections, allowing air to leak into the fuel system? If you placed your fuel tank near the front of the boat, did you use a recommended 5/16” or 3/8” fuel line? If you added a quick disconnect to the fuel tank, especially OMC type, you may be restricting fuel. Do you have rope, weeds or wire wrapped around your propeller? Is your fuel filter dirty or plugged? Is your engine oil low? Tip: If you use an in-line primer bulb, do not over pump the Mikuni carburetor aftermarket engines. These carburetors have very small needle and seat valves and if you over-pump the bulb, you can push small particles of debris past the fuel filter element and into the needle and seat where it will plug the carburetor. This can stop the engine or restrict fuel during acceleration or at full throttle. Also, the Mikuni carburetors have a low speed idle jet on the side of the carburetor. (brass screw). If your motor experiences hesitation at throttle-up, turn the screw in. The idle screw is normally set at 1 and a half turns out, but it can be run as far as all the way in. Each engine and carburetor are slightly different. If you are in a state that is using 10% ethanol and you aren't using our fuel tank and new fuel lines, the ethanol can deteriorate the older system and cause particles to enter the fuel system, plug up fuel filter, etc.

Q: How And Why Should I Register My Motor?

It is very important to register your motor. Not only does it allow us to keep you informed of any recalls and other important information about your motor, but it also helps us help you in regards to your warranty and helping you with any repairs that may be needed. It is an easy process to register your motor, click here to get started.

Q: Is My Motor Still Under Warranty?

Depending on the motor you purchased and the date it was purchased on, your warranty will go into effect. Contact customer service on the about page if you have questions about the length and terms of your warranty.

Q: Where Is Mud Buddy Motors Located?

Mud Buddy Motors is located in West Jordan, Utah, just south of the Great Salt Lake. We have been manufacturing motors here for 25 years. 7956 S. 1530 W., West Jordan, Utah 84088 | (385) 247-1970