How to check for spark?

  • JMKZHI
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How to check for spark?

29 Nov 2008 08:24 - 04 Dec 2008 10:03
#249920
To check for spark... Can I pull all 4 plug wires off the plugs, then check for spark using a spare plug? Checking one plug wire at a time? Thanks.
Last edit: 04 Dec 2008 10:03 by JMKZHI.

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  • rstnick
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Re: How to check for spark?

29 Nov 2008 08:28
#249921
Take all 4 plugs out and reconnect them to their caps, then lay them on the engine so metal is touching metal.
Now turn the Ignition on and either use the kick starter or elec. start to turn the engine over.
You will see sparks if their working.
Dim lighting helps.
Rob
CANADA

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Re: .

29 Nov 2008 08:41 - 04 Dec 2008 10:05
#249927
So I can't do it the other way mentioned?
Just not 100% sure it's okay to do it as asked - it being an old bike.
Last edit: 04 Dec 2008 10:05 by JMKZHI.

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  • fixer5000
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Re: How to check for spark?

29 Nov 2008 11:19
#249936
sure can.. any way you see fit that works. motor will spin over easier without plugs in there though.
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Re: How to check for spark?

29 Nov 2008 12:08 - 29 Nov 2008 12:09
#249938
If you use a spare plug, you wont know if the plug in the engine is any good.
Although it will show you if the electrical circuit to the spark plug wire is working.
Rob
CANADA

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1978 KZ650 C2, 130K kms, Delkevic ex, EI, CVK32, PMC easy clutch, ATK fork brace, steering damper, braced swingarm, ZRX shocks, 18" Z1R front wheel.
2000 ZRX1100
2011 Ninja 250R - Wife's
2005 z750s (aka GPz750)
1978 KZ1000 project
Last edit: 29 Nov 2008 12:09 by rstnick.

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Re: .

29 Nov 2008 14:08 - 04 Dec 2008 10:04
#249954
It's a simple question. Just not 100% sure it's okay to do it as asked.
Last edit: 04 Dec 2008 10:04 by JMKZHI.

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  • PLUMMEN
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Re: How to check for spark?

29 Nov 2008 18:10
#249976
carefull holding onto plug wires,yeah i know its a complicted story involving a plow truck and a back flip!:laugh:
Still recovering,some days are better than others.

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Re: How to check for spark?

29 Nov 2008 19:36 - 29 Nov 2008 19:37
#249984
The reason for doing it w the plug wires removed is because I don't want to run the engine in the garage.

I understand, but pulling out all 4 plugs and hooking them up, laying them on the outside of the engine and turning the engine over while it's ON will not actually start the bike.
And you can see and test all 4 at the same time.
Rob
CANADA

Need a key for your Kawasaki? PM me

1978 KZ650 C2, 130K kms, Delkevic ex, EI, CVK32, PMC easy clutch, ATK fork brace, steering damper, braced swingarm, ZRX shocks, 18" Z1R front wheel.
2000 ZRX1100
2011 Ninja 250R - Wife's
2005 z750s (aka GPz750)
1978 KZ1000 project
Last edit: 29 Nov 2008 19:37 by rstnick.

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  • JMKZHI
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Re: .

29 Nov 2008 20:24 - 04 Dec 2008 10:33
#249990
rstnick wrote:... but pulling out all 4 plugs and hooking them up, laying them on the outside of the engine and turning the engine over while it's ON will not actually start the bike.

Yes. I know.

My original question was kept simple intentionally.
Wasn't 100% sure if there was any harm in having the other 3 plug wires disconnected & flopping around while checking the 4th one.
Last edit: 04 Dec 2008 10:33 by JMKZHI.

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Re: How to check for spark?

30 Nov 2008 13:22
#250065
buy an actual spark gap checker and you can test the strenth of the spark at the same time they are adjustable so you can measure the gap that the ignition system will jump and still work
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