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1981 xs1100 won't start.

Discussion in 'Motorcycle Tech Talk' started by wags45, Jun 30, 2012.

  1. wags45

    wags45 New Member

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    My bike ran good when i parked it. But now it seems that there is no spark but when i turn the key off it fires or when i let up on the starter button it will send a spark. ( not every time but most of the time). Any body have any ideas what to look at? Good fuel, new plugs clean air filter ect. All the basic stuff done. HELP. Thanks

    Wags

    P,S, when i shut the key off bang through the exhaust.
  2. cowboy

    cowboy Moderator Staff Member

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    Have you check the ECM or coil , double check all grounds from battery to frame
  3. wags45

    wags45 New Member

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    Will do. I think its the coils but hate to just start swapping out parts. Thanks
  4. cowboy

    cowboy Moderator Staff Member

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    See if one of the shops around you can test the coil
  5. Lucifer

    Lucifer Well-Known Member

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    Did you check out the ignition switch itself?? Try a jumper or toggle switch in its place...
  6. wags45

    wags45 New Member

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    will try. Coils are good and has good ground. every time i hit the kill switch to off it fires like it is suppose too. That is the only time or when i shut off the key. Not sure what wires are the right ignition wires will keep looking. thanks




  7. Lucifer

    Lucifer Well-Known Member

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    Seems like it's in the start/kill switches on the handlebars....how old is the battery??
  8. wags45

    wags45 New Member

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    Battery is new and fully charged. Now tonight when i turned the ignition on the neutral light and oil pressure light did not light. tail light came on and the bike rolled over but again no spark until in shut the key off then it sparked once. i think its time for a new switch. might bite the bullet and take it to the pro's.


  9. wags45

    wags45 New Member

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    Took it in to the local bike shop today. They seem to think it is the pulse coil. we will find out and report.

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