SXS No Crank at the Key and No Spark

[Matthew Smith]

2013 Bennche Bighorn 700 EFI

 I just picked up this project that I was told would crank, but not start.  This is what I’ve figured out so far….

I installed a new battery and get all dash lights, head lights, and brake lights on when turning the ignition on.  Fuel pump even turns on.  It does not crank with the key, but would when I jumped the starter solenoid, so I replaced it…..no change.

Figured I’d check for spark and compression while I was dorking around.  Compression is 150 psi, but there is no spark.  Replaced the spark plug… no change.

So, is my new starter solenoid bad?  Could it be the brake or gear position switches even though the brakes and neutral lights come on?  Not sure where to go from here.

[Matthew Smith]

I'm new to ATV's and SxS's.  Can someone point me in the direction of a more active forum for troubleshooting?

[Charles Green]

Did you check for 12v at starter solenoid with key in start position?

Did you you check fuses?

[Steve G.]

40 minutes ago, Charles Green said:

Did you check for 12v at starter solenoid with key in start position?

Did you you check fuses?

As he's saying, first thing is makes sure there is 12v on positive probe with negative probe on the metal chassis or even the motor itself.

[Matthew Smith]

On 3/7/2025 at 7:10 PM, Charles Green said:

Did you check for 12v at starter solenoid with key in start position?

Did you you check fuses?

I had 12V on the one post, but nothing happened when I turned the key to start it.  It ended up being a loose connection going into the relay/fuse box.  Far right connection doesn't seat the whole way.  I have it ziptied in place for now, but would like a better solution.  With the wiring fixed, I did a valve adjustment and it fired right up, but seems to be lacking power on hills.  I just ran it around my yard real quick and definitely feels like it's lacking power on anything other than flat ground.  I guess I'll have to inspect the clutch next.