So I'm trying to get my non-running project bike to start and am checking the ignition. Its a 1959 M18 with 6V coil and alternator.
I'm observing two sparks in the plug close to each other when turning the engine over. One spark before TDC and once straight after. It's as if it's sparking when the points open and again when they close. Is it supposed to do that? Sorry for the noob question!
Thanks, Huw.
Single with two sparks?
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Huw.Williams
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jackstringer
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Re: Single with two sparks?
Might be a sign that the condenser is on the way out.
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Groily
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Re: Single with two sparks?
Not supposed to, no!
Could well be the condenser (suggest test by substitution) - but it's worth also checking that the points aren't being opened twice due to unevenness on the heel of the opening point, or a ridge on the points cam. Or a wobbly pivot on the opening point, or not-well-mating points with surface irregularities.
Try a bigger gap to test and see if it goes away maybe?
Could well be the condenser (suggest test by substitution) - but it's worth also checking that the points aren't being opened twice due to unevenness on the heel of the opening point, or a ridge on the points cam. Or a wobbly pivot on the opening point, or not-well-mating points with surface irregularities.
Try a bigger gap to test and see if it goes away maybe?