Ranger hard starting cold 2006

The cold weather may cause your Yamaha Timberwolf to experience hard starting, several months and no use, or a stale fuel supply. Start by replacing the spark plug, if the engine still does not fire up, clean the carburetor and make sure all the hoses are connected tightly with no air leaks. If none of these strategies work, the carburetor may need to be adjusted or replaced. You may want to take it to an experienced mechanic if you are unable to get the engine started.

what is it doing? you said starting. like is it not cranking over? because you mentioned the charging system.
or is it not firing up when it cranks over? because you also mentioned starting system.

Take your battery to O'Reilly's or AutoZone and have the CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) checked.. it takes amperage to crank your ATV..not voltage..
DO NOT EVER JUMP YOUR ATV WITH A CAR OR HI-AMP BATTERY CHARGER..TOO MANY AMPS!!!!

Have a qualified professional clean and set the carburetor...it will make sure the starting process is easier...new spark plug too... and check the air filter...replace if not perfect!!!

check your crank seals

maybe a new battery may help ?

Try replacing the solenoid, which is attached to the starter.
To test, run it until hot,let it sit for 5 minutes, try to start. Then, go and tap the solenoid with a hammer ,and try to start again. I bet you it will crank over.

Not starting issues are usually spark or fuel problems. If you have gas getting to the carb then check your spark. First check all the wire connectors and plug wire to make sure everything is connected. If you find a loose connection fix it then try it. If not, then remove the spark plug but leave it attached to the plug wire set it on the cylinder head and turn the engine over. You should see a bright spark. If you have a really weak spark or none at all, then it may be your ignition coil or a related ignition part.

Try checking valve clearance. I had a Honda that did same thing, Set the valves and would start right up when cold.

Hey Anon, It sounds like the "choke" system is not working properly,, hard to start until it warms up is "classic" choke system problem..
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Sounds like the carb,has it been check after its test and tune ?