Ironhead What ignition system to use?

Rudy2 · #1 14th April 2009

I am back to working on my stock 1982 XLH. It starts and runs now but it pops and farts out both the exhaust pipes and carburetor. Not all the time but it is rough enough to be noticeable. I tried timing it with an inductive pickup light and found out that the light was sort of hit and miss too, which makes me think that I have weak spark, especially for one cylinder. So, if I find that I need a new ignition system what are some recommendations? I don't want to spend a ton of money as I know that some of the big names can be spendy. Bty, it presently has an electronic ignition with two pickup units under the point cover. Haven't looked to see if there is a mechanical advance behind the backing plate or not. It looks like a factory setup to me.

Randy

downunder · #2 15th April 2009

Have you checked your coil,leads and plugs ?? they're all cheaper than a new ignition.

As far as aftermarket ignitions, I have a "Dyna S" that i was going to fit on my '82, but one of the local harley guys said to me that unless i do a bit of other work (like cams) i won't notice any difference at all (with reliability or power).

So the Dyna is still on a shelf in the garage.
If you do fit an after market unit i'd be interested to know which one and if you notice any difference.

justin.

IronMick · #3 15th April 2009

One trick when using an inductive timing light is to open the spark plug gap up to at least 040. Works for me. The light will not function at all unless i do this. Try it - maybe your EI is good.

I have a Crane Hi-4 single fire. They are out of business now so while it is a good unit there may be no warranty.

Rudy2 · #4 15th April 2009

Thanks downunder and IronMick,

I replaced the plug wires tonight and it seemed to run much better. I do notice a weaker spark in the front cylinder than the rear one so I suspect that something is still not right. But my timing light works now and no pops or farts from the carb or exhaust anymore. But it still sounds a little uneven. It will idle down low and rev fast when the throttle is blipped. I am guessing that some component(s) are still marginal. Now is the time to get the seat and foot controls on it so I can ride. Running in the garage is one thing and running on the road under load is quite another. Let you know what I figure out. Bet it is a weak coil or bad coil wiring.

Randy