Coil Question

[jimboreeno]

Hi All,
I have read several threads regarding poor performance when riding in the rain. The other day I got caught in a toad-strangler on the way home. The bike started running real rough. I limped home and discoverd that 1 and 4 header pipes were not hot. 2 and 3 were sizzling.
I figure the coil must be shorting out.
Before I pull it, is there a way to test the coils to see if they are functioning properly. I am pretty sure I will pull them and end up saying, "gee...looks alright to me!"
OR...ant other ideas??

[cajun31]

Read this thread

and check the tech tips on coils

http://www.xs11.com/forum/showthread.php?threadid=13908&highlight=coils

[jimboreeno]

yeah I read it just before I posted. My question is how to test a coil to see it it is working properly or not.

[79XS11F]

Make sure the connection between the plug wire and the plug boots is GOOD and then between the boot and the plug . Use dielectric grease at these locations to keep moisture and corrosion out of the connections. I do this at EVERY connection in the electrical system including grounds. i got caught in a rain storm once last year and did the 2 hour drive home in the rain and my bike didn't miss a beat ... not once.
Rob

[79XS11F]

Originally posted by jimboreeno
yeah I read it just before I posted. My question is how to test a coil to see it it is working properly or not.

The coils themselves are almost indestructible ... it's the wires that is a weak link. Check your manual for the procedure and expected / normal readings.
Rob

[cajun31]

Did you read this one

Jimbo,

Read this tech tip....you will need a voltmeter to do the test.

http://www.xs11.com/tips/repair/repair24.shtml

[jimboreeno]

Turns out one of the coils has a large crack in it and the readings are way off.
I found THESE at JC Whitney. Any reason they won't work?
I talked to a rep who said they would work fine.

[jimboreeno]

Of course now I see they say "not for 4 cyl"

[TopCatGr58]

Hey Jim,

Have you not been paying attention lately?? I posted a tech tip about using the MikesXS coils on our machines, work very well, are 35Kvolt strong, and don't require the ballast resistor. If you've got one bad coil, might as well to replace both, that way no problem with the ballast resistor bypass!
T.C.

MikesXS Coils UPgrade tech tip.

[jimboreeno]

OF COURSE I have not been paying attention....What Kind of Question is THAT?!?!

Thanks TC. I did the 'ole post first, search later

I actually found a replacement set on FleaBay. They appear in good shape and weren't too expensive. I hope I don't wish I had upgraded with the new, but we'll see!

At least I'll be back on the road and HOPEFULLY able to ride when wet!