Panic !

[Tee]

OK - sorry about this but I have to get a new thread going as I've just got in from Kendo and the bike still won't start.
I tried to check the spark but using the tried and tested method of resting the plug on the barrel didn't produce anything at all. It seems to turn over ok but I'm not getting anything at all and I haven't a clue what to check. I've put in a new 'map' from V&H that they advised I should 'try' and then let them know but as I'm not getting any spark at all I'm beginning to wonder what's wrong? I've just done a top end rebuild, upgrading to 95" using SE pistons and rings, new barrels, and Cometic Gaskets. The only thing I will say about it that I think is a bit strange is that the battery runs down after two or three goes at starting, and when I put it back on charge it's taking around a 4 amp charge. I won't make it to Talgarth this time but I want to sort it out 'coz it's doing my head in now

As usual - all help and advice greatly appreciated.

[softail898]

Tee, If you are not getting a Spark from the Plugs it looks like an Ignition problem.
Don't let the Battery sidetrack you. It is turning over the engine so you should have a Spark from the Plugs. The Battery is a problem but you have to find why there is no Spark. It is possible the 2 things are related.
When you did the 1550 upgrade did you disconnect the wiring? If so where? Did you take off Earth Wires (Black) from the Frame or Engine as this could be the problem? Check all connectors are fully pushed home in the Wiring Loom and make sure all Earth Wires are making a good connection with (BARE) metal. Check the Coil connections. If all checks out O.K. but still no Spark then is it possible to swap the Ignition Module with a mate to see if it works? (I would suggest putting YOUR Ignition Module on you mates bike and not the other way round. Just in case there is something you have done that has fried your Module, unlikely but you never know). Lastly, check all fuses. Let us know how you get on.
Good Luck...Pat.

[Phil]

Pat has touched most of the bases there. However.... It will not spark with the plug removed. You will need to use an in-line spark tester. Try a local motor factor for a loaner or rent (at least they do here).
With your year & model, each ECM is password learned to the bike, which is a complex process using a digital computer modem to HD. The very most that another ECM will do is start & die immediately if at all.
Retrace every step you took & double check everything. You may find a simple mistake.

[Tee]

Thanks for the replies.
I'll get a spark tester and retrace eveeything over the weekend then. Can't do it today as I've got exams on today and number 1 Son is due to arrive this afternoon for the weekend. That makes me feel a little better I just can't think of any thing I might have done wrong with the wiring though as you can't connect the wrong plugs and that's all I messed with. Oh well. I'll have to wait I suppose

[the_monster]

I had a similar problem with my 103 recently, sorted it by getting a battery with higher cranking amps as the previous one decided it couldn't produce enough to turn the engine over, set the fuel injection fully and produce the sparks at the same time.

Also changed the plugs for good measure, but with the new higher spec battery it's now bang on the button>

[girlyglide]

Originally Posted by Tee

you can't connect the wrong plugs and that's all I messed with.

Errr, on a TC yes you can. Check that the HT leads are in the correct poles on the coil.

[grbrown]

Originally Posted by the_monster

I had a similar problem with my 103 recently, sorted it by getting a battery with higher cranking amps as the previous one decided it couldn't produce enough to turn the engine over, set the fuel injection fully and produce the sparks at the same time.

Also changed the plugs for good measure, but with the new higher spec battery it's now bang on the button>

Had similar problems with my BMW - would crank over apparently OK, but the electronics wouldn't wake up to fire the bike. Just a fraction of a volt down was enough to muck it up. The battery was quite old and a new one sorted everything.

[Scotty]

I think that battery you got there is goosed, after, or even before checking all of the above you wanna conect a car battery thats disconected from a car and spin her over.
I am a mechanic and i actually use a TC battery that is surplus to requirements to fire up cars if i have to jump em away from the garage, works a treat.

[Tee]

Originally Posted by girlyglide

Errr, on a TC yes you can. Check that the HT leads are in the correct poles on the coil.

What I meant by the 'wrong plugs' was on the electrical side, not the ignition side. I did have the plug leads the wrong way around but I spotted that early on and corrected it.

[Tee]

OK - another question. what's a good heavy duty battery to get as a replacement then because I think that it might indeed be 'Goosed'