Motorcycle Repair: Ignition problems 98 XR250R, honda xr250r, secondary windings

Question
I have a 98 Honda XR250R that has been sitting for a few months in the real cold. I started it up about a month ago with no problems. I went out there today to start it up and it would not start. I checked to see if the spark plug was getting spark. It was not. Then I took the spark plug out and put a screw driver in the spark plug wire and still got no spark. What would the next thing be for me to check? Please help.

Answer
Hi Charles,

First thing to do is obtain a Service Manual for this vehicle. Follow troubleshooting and testing procedures in the manual.

Ensure spark plug & screwdriver are well grounded when you perform the arc test.

Is the engine on/off switch in the on position? Check the kill switch contacts for corrosion. Check wiring for loose connections and defects caused by rodents chewing. Check the pulse coil (ignition pick up coil) resistance & continuity. Check CDI (ignition module) with a known good unit. Check that primary lead is connected to ignition coil. Check resistance & continuity of primary and secondary windings in ignition coil. Check secondary lead and spark plug cap. Check all chassis ground connections; must be clean and tightly fastened.

After finding electrical problem, check carburetor for evidence of varnishing. Fuel in carb gels with time and obstructs jets and passageways. The carb may need a thorough cleaning.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively