Earth the spark plug and operate the

Starter - bright blue sparks should be

Visible

should be evident at each plug electrode. If the spark appears thin or yellowish, or is non­existent, further investigation will be necessary. Before proceeding further, turn the ignition OFF and remove the key as a safety measure.

4 The ignition system must be able to produce a spark which is capable of jumping a particular size gap. Honda do not provide a specification, but a healthy system should produce a spark capable of jumping at least 6 mm. A simple testing tool can be made to test the minimum gap across which the spark will jump (see Tool Tip)or alternatively it is possible to buy an ignition spark gap tester tool (see illustration).

5Connect the HT lead from one coil to the protruding electrode on the test tool, and clip the tool to a good earth (ground) on the engine or frame (see illustration).Check that the kill switch is in the RUN position, turn the ignition switch ON and turn the engine over on the starter motor. If the system is in good condition a regular, fat blue spark should be seen to jump the gap between the nail ends. Repeat the test for the other coil. If the test results are good the entire ignition system can be considered good. If the spark appears thin or yellowish, or is non-existent, further investigation will be necessary.

6 Ignition faults can be divided into two categories, namely those where the ignition system has failed completely, and those which are due to a partial failure. The likely faults are listed below, starting with the most

Ignition system 5»3

3,6 Measuring primary resistance between the primary circuit terminals on the coil

Date: 2016-01-14; view: 588