Alternative CDI? - '81 GS450T

[lake_harley]

I just bought a '81 GS450T. Bike isn't in the best condition, but with some sweat equity I think it'll be a good bike.

In checking over the general condition of the bike. I found no spark to the plugs. Started checking switches, circuits, etc., and came to the plug where the CDI box should be (I think anyway, under the seat behind the airbox, going from a printed off, online wiring diagram) and there was no CDI box on the bike! It was a 6 or 8 pin plug if I recall correctly, but I don't have the bike or the diagram close by right now. No problem I thought, until I started looking and was suprised at the prices. I may have a line on one for a good price, in fact another bike, but just in case that doesn't happen are there CDI boxes from any other bikes that can be used without hacking the wiring harness?

I'm new to this forum and didn't see a new member intro area, so I just want to say thanks for being here. I hope someday I'll be able to contribute in a positive way, to make up for all of the questions I'll probably have about this GS.

Lynn

[Nessism]

Found these threads for you using the search feature. There are lots more if you need more info.

BTW, your bike doesn't have a CDI. The missing box is an ignitor.

http://www.thegsresources.com/_forum/showthread.php?t=197087

http://www.thegsresources.com/_forum/showthread.php?t=193550

http://www.thegsresources.com/_forum/showthread.php?t=171781

[lake_harley]

Thanks for the correction on the Ignitor vs. CDI system. I probably saw that on the wiring diagram but didn't pay attention.

Thanks for the search results. My search brought up such a large number of results that it was going to be a daunting task to sort and read through them. Probably worse yet, considering I was looking for the wrong term.

Anyway, thanks for the links. One in particular provided a list of other bikes that use the same ignitor and that will open up many optioins in looking for a replacement.

If the other GS450 pans out would be better yet. It's supposedly a "S" model which, to me, is a more appealing in the sportier design. I'm already thinking I'd essentially change my "T" to the "S" with a major parts swap. The title to my bike is clear, but the title for the potential "S" is a bit tainted. Also, my bike only has about 8,6xx miles on it, compared to over 70,xxx on the other.

Thanks again!

Lynn

[Nessism]

Using Advanced Search, and toggling "titles only" will help you hone in on the info you need quickly. There is a huge archive of information available here for you to mine. 9 times out of 10 the answer is there waiting for you.

[Guest]

Hi Lynn, the T and S models have slightly different frames, so things like the tank and seat etc. won't be an easy direct swap.

For the ignitor, you can use the one off the S like you have planned, or you can go the Dynatek DS3-3C route like I have.

There's also two potential other ways...

1. Use the points setup from the earlier 400/425's which is going to be cheap. To do this you will need the advance mechanism and coils with condensors. I've seen this done and it's a definite (but not ideal) option.

2. Use a newer '83 onwards 450 or 500 setup but you'll need the signal generator, ignition rotor, and ignitor as they've got electronic advance. I haven't seen this done yet, but all reports indicate it should be a direct swap if you get all the right bits.

[lake_harley]

Hi Lynn, the T and S models have slightly different frames, so things like the tank and seat etc. won't be an easy direct swap.

For the ignitor, you can use the one off the S like you have planned, or you can go the Dynatek DS3-3C route like I have.

There's also two potential other ways...

1. Use the points setup from the earlier 400/425's which is going to be cheap. To do this you will need the advance mechanism and coils with condensors. I've seen this done and it's a definite (but not ideal) option.

2. Use a newer '83 onwards 450 or 500 setup but you'll need the signal generator, ignition rotor, and ignitor as they've got electronic advance. I haven't seen this done yet, but all reports indicate it should be a direct swap if you get all the right bits.

Being all about doing things in a frugal (read that cheap) manner, I'll hope the "spare" bike works out so I get the ignitor I need in the process. Of the other two choices you mention, I'd probably lean toward a points setup. To me a simple points style ignition can be tweaked a bit on the side of the road if there are problems, as opposed to electronic components, generally when the smoke escapes they're done.

Regarding the frames on the "T" vs "S" models, I thought I read somewhere in the last week that the frames were the same, but I'll accept that you're probably right. If the cosmetic changes aren't possible that's OK, I'll live with it. I was hoping the more "cruiser-style" "T" gas tank could be replaced with the (to me) more sporty looking tank with the "knee reliefs" from the "S".

Thanks for the additional suggestions.

Lynn

[lake_harley]

I just got to take a quick look at the supposed "S" model. Actually isn't there an "E" model too, that uses the same shape tank as the "S", but doesn't have the fairing? It has bodywork behind the seat that resembles the "S". I'll have to do some more research. With the seat off, I did notice a difference at the back of the tank, on the frame. My bike (T) has a relatively flat cross bracket with a "loop" for the seat to clip under. The one I just looked at had a tubular "hoop", but didn't really pay attention to how the seat is held down at the front. I'd like to go the sportier route and will find out Wednesday what he will want for the bike.

Lynn

[Guest]

The E and S are almost identical. Tank, plastics, seat, etc. all the same. You're right about the fairing, and the S also has 'bar end mirrors, gold wheels, and some other minor cosmetic things from memory.

The tank attaches to an almost vertical bracket in front of the seat that one bolt goes into.

The seat has a loop at the front that a lip goes under and then there's a lock in the duck tail that the rear of the seat clips into.

[lake_harley]

bwanna....I've tried replying to your PM twice, but nothing shows in my outbox. Send me an e-mail to winter62@att.net if you haven't received my replies.

Lynn

[gs450sjip]

Hi Lynn, the T and S models have slightly different frames, so things like the tank and seat etc. won't be an easy direct swap.

For the ignitor, you can use the one off the S like you have planned, or you can go the Dynatek DS3-3C route like I have.

There's also two potential other ways...

1. Use the points setup from the earlier 400/425's which is going to be cheap. To do this you will need the advance mechanism and coils with condensors. I've seen this done and it's a definite (but not ideal) option.

2. Use a newer '83 onwards 450 or 500 setup but you'll need the signal generator, ignition rotor, and ignitor as they've got electronic advance. I haven't seen this done yet, but all reports indicate it should be a direct swap if you get all the right bits.

Lynn

I agree with Pete, I installed the complete Dynatek after buying three used Ignitors (all bad). Not worth the trouble with 30 year old used electronics..You will need a spacer for the Dynatek installation, I have an extra if interested. gs450sjip

[jfman]

1982 gs400t = 1982 gs450t cdi wise?

[Guest]

Not sure on that one... you'd need to do a reverse part number lookup on the 400 and see what I returns...

And it's not a CDI