My nephew rolled over and ripped off ignition switch. I put the cables direct got the lights to work and the starter to turn but it does not turn on. I also tried to push start it but still won't start. It has been sitting a little over a year but I turn the wheels so the engine won't get stuck. Someone told me to clean the carb. {Rick, CA 2005 Honda 400 ATV}

Honda made three 400cc ATV models in 2005. The TRX400EX, TRX400FA and TRX400FGA. It should not matter which model you have for the basic starting of your bike, using the colors below. Your ATV ignition switch may have additional contacts inside for multiple electrical accessories depending upon your model.

The majority of ATV ignition switches are the same. They connect 2 wires together to complete a circuit, like any other switch. An ignition switch in the on position connects the red wire {positive battery power} to the ignition system {generally a brown wire}. In the off position it grounds, black wire to a black with white tracer preventing spark in the ignition system.

It sounds to me like you connected the two black wires or connected the black wire with the black with white tracer wire. Try leaving the black and black/white wires unhooked while you connect the others. Now the bike should start.