QuestionNot sure if you know much about this bike but if not could you tell me someone who does. I have questions about the ignition system on this bike. I am getting readings of appx. 122-142 mVAC for my out put through plug cap using a peak meter. I am gietting no reading input through the primary side. Is the problems with my points or with me pick-up coil? I hope you have some insight on this, anything would be greatly helpful. Thank you.
Nathan
AnswerNathan... only some motorcycle as old as me could possibly tackle this question! Actually, I believe your bike has a magneto ignition system, consisting of a set of points, condenser, magnetized flywheel, primary coil windings and a secondary coil with plug wire/cap.
Try this link, I found on the web..
http://www.culayer.com/Magneto.htm
In order for a spark plug to fire, it has to have about 5,000AC volts, at the least (usually 10-15kv). Most likely culprit is the condenser that suppresses arcing across the points. They were pretty poorly constructed back then and usually need replacing. CLEAN EVERYTHING in there first. Make sure the points are clean and shiny. Clean the magnet section on the flywheel, so there is shiny metal showing. Gap the points to specifications... often around .014" and see if there is a mechanical spark advance system. Most mags are set to provide full fixed advance all the time.
The flywheel sweeps past the primary coil inducing a magnet field in the windings, which is sent to the primary side of the output coil, energizing the coil while the points are closed. Then, when the points open, the field collapses and the voltage is released down the plug wire to the spark plug. Any loose connections, corroded contacts, dirty points, failed condenser or rusty flywheel magnet sections can reduce or suppress the ignition system.
Bill MrHonda Silver
