no timing light

Is there a way to check my timing (electronic ignition)with a multimeter?

KZ900 FSM Dwell Angle tester yes but DVM, not likely where resolution/measurement refresh would be too slow and definitely not with any accuracy I can think of when referencing to Firing timing...

If OEM points ignition, OHMeter used for initial setup, Timing light for confirmations... May put you close enough.

Timing light is the only way to go insuring idle "F" and full advanced at 3-4K is operating to spec...

In case you need... This is out of FSM for KZ900, 98% same as your KZ1000.

toad wrote: Is there a way to check my timing (electronic ignition)with a multimeter?

From signature, z1 1015 in a 78 kz1000 frame, guessing Dyna-S replaced points, as Kaw's electronic ignition with i.c. igniter was introduced on 1979 model KZ1000.

Dyna-S installation instructions include static timing (without engine running) by using a test bulb wired to light just as the signal wire from coil primary becomes ungrounded.

Am thinking an ohmmeter could be used in lieu of the bulb to indicate continuity or lack of continuity.

The objective is to have the bulb or ohmmeter indicate (while hand-turning the crankshaft) when the signal wire from coil primary becomes ungrounded. At which time the F mark (not T mark) on the advancer (visible through the inspection window) is supposed to align with the permanent case mark.

Static timing is better than nothing when a strobe-type timing light isn't available.

Imo, the static timing should be followed up with dynamic timing (engine running) by using a strobe-type timing light which affords more accuracy and finer tuning.

Good Fortune!

you can get close and then get a cheap light at the auto parts tore imo...i got a decent one for 40

If it's the Kawasaki electronic ignition, you can get close enough to start it with eyeballing, but as Triangle says, you'll need a timing light to check for sure. The spark happens when the rotating iron pointer just barely passes the center of the pickup. That is, when the trailing edge of the point is just about lined up, or just slightly clear, of the metal center of the pickup.

If it's a Dyna S, then Patton has those instructions.

I check my static timing with a test probe/light. Then dynamic timing with a timing light. You can get the test probe/light at wal-mart, auto part stores, etc for less than 10 bucks. I have a dyna s ignition. We'll be able to better help if you tell what type of electronic ignition you're running.

Harbor Freight Tools probably has a cheap timing light.

Here's on for $16:

www.harborfreight.com/xenon-timing-light-3343.html

its dyna S. I may as well just buy the light,but good pointers indeed!