Questionjust purchased this bike, not running. not getting spark. how and where should I start chasing down my spark issue? I bought the bike and he previous owner to him says the bike just stopped running one day. I assumed my problem would be either ignition control modual, key switch or coils. where should I begin?
AnswerJoe.... if you know that all 4 plugs are dead at the same time, then there is a commonality to check into. Things that affect the whole ignition system in that way would be:
Ignition switch: With CDI ignitions, the ignition switch grounds the sparks out in OFF position, rather than opening a circuit.
KILL Switch: on the handlebars, could be getting corrosion buildup inside or contacts wearing out from age/vibration. Remove, disassemble, inspect and reassemble, then check all wiring to and from the handlebar switch.
Sidestand switch: Will kill spark under certain conditions. Make sure it is clean and tight and working properly.
CDI module control unit: $400 for a new one. You would need a shop manual and appropriate testing equipment to troubleshoot this one. Check wiring connector carefully.
Pulsar unit: Next to the flywheel, generates timing signals to the rest of the ignition system. A bad connector/connection there could be a cause. Should read about 2ohms.
Camshaft pulse generator: 570-690 ohms 85-86 only.
Go to: www.bikebandit.com for illustrations of the parts, unless your book is an OEM copy with pertinent info already handy.
http://www.hondashadow.net/
http://www.shadowriders.org/
http://www.hsocuk.com/
maybe helpful resources, too
http://www.carlsalter.com/download.asp?fileid=7da1a494948f8f87636662668f82a7a798... for free shop manual file. Haynes, not OEM Honda, though.
Section 5 has step-by-step info for troubleshooting the ignition system.
Bill Silver
