Checking the spark
 

How can I check the spark on my '82 RS, please? The way I used to do it was by cranking the engine and holding the body of the plug hard against the cylinder head, the spark (if any) could be seen plainly.

I am nervous of doing this on my bike for two reasons- it has electronic ignition which according to the rider's handbook is particularly dangerous because of the higher voltage it produces, and, also, as my mate found out on his bike, you can also easily blow the unit and a new one costs serious bucks (about £120 twenty years ago iirc)

Last week I bought a set of four plug testers (ok-I only need two for mine) in Halfords, you connect them between the plugs and the leads and you should be able to see through the clear plastic body if all the plugs are getting a spark. The thing was, though, I can't use them as they are on my bike because they are designed for use with the little knob in place on the top of the plug. If I could modify the connectors to fit then when the misfire comes back I could check which plug wasn't getting a spark.

Any thoughts, anyone?

No, I haven't checked the carbs yet

Thanks,

John

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Johnefyn

[This message has been edited by John Roberts (edited 06 March 2006).]

Just make sure that the plugs are getting a good ground and you'll be fine. You should see a good spark. I wouldn't hold the plugs, though. Too painfull...