ignition timing

[LarryC]

I have searched and found discussions of timing lights and use of continuity meters, etc. No mention of this so here it is:

Set your points gap. I've used a points file to knock off the high spots and points love me long time

Pull the plugs, insert them into the high tension leads and prop them on the head so the plugs spark normally.

Set a radio next to the bike and tune between stations on the AM band. Turn the volume up some.

Turn on the ignition and rotate the crankshaft(clockwise) till the plugs fire. It'll turn easy cuz the plugs are out. You'll hear the pop on the radio. STOP TURNING IMMEDIATELY!

Look at the marks. Chances are you'll see 2-3 so turn it more till it fires and you see 1-4. Since you stopped immediately you are looking at the exact setting which your timing is at. Adjust accordingly. Check again. Then do 2-3.

As long as your spark advance is working correctly your bike is now timed.

I used this for 20+ years on a Honda K model in which the points setup was identical to that on my GS1000. It just replaces the continuity meter with something you've likely got sitting right there already.

[Steve]

It just replaces the continuity meter with something you've likely got sitting right there already.

You actually think I am more likely to have an AM radio than a continuity meter "right there"?


Actually, yeah, it's a good idea ... for those who might still have an AM radio.

.

[LarryC]

You don't have a clock radio? An alarm/radio? They most all still have AM.

[Adler]

Pretty damn cool... I may try this.

[Steve]

You don't have a clock radio? An alarm/radio? They most all still have AM.

Nope. Gave up on them years ago.

I use my cell phone for my alarm clock.

.

[FLHGSRay]

What happened to using a test light? Haven't done this for a long time, probably 20+ years, but a $2 test light does the same thing. Line up the marks, hook up the light to the points, then turn the points plate til the light comes on. (Or goes out, can't remember)? Feel free to shoot holes in my system, like I said, I haven't done this for years.

[Suzuki_Don]

Set a radio next to the bike and tune between stations on the AM band. Turn the volume up some.

But how am I going to listen to the football while working on my bike if the radio is between stations!!!!!!!!!!!

[49er]

But how am I going to listen to the football while working on my bike if the radio is between stations!!!!!!!!!!!

You aint got time to listen to footy. Have ya sorted out that timing on the 550/650 yet?

Aussies still using AM for footy broadcasts?

[Suzuki_Don]

You aint got time to listen to footy. Have ya sorted out that timing on the 550/650 yet?

Aussies still using AM for footy broadcasts?

702 is still the best broadcast for the rugby league over here. No adverts you see.

Fitting a DS3-1 this weekend hopefully.

[motoraton]

didi i miss something

Hi i have been reading,but i have not catch up.when the spark come will interrupt the transmission between stations,but that is telling you that the point is opening n that point,what but it has to be on F i call it fire,so the spark comes when the piston is in the higher point in compression,or not?
sorry i must missed something never mind