I have had this mint 1985 Honda ATC 250R sitting around for 2 years now. It won't run, because no spark. I have bought two used replacement CDI units for it so far. The first didn't work, I goofed around with it and gave up in frustration. 6 months later I ordered another (both from East Coast ATV). Still no spark. It is 3 months later and I am trying again.

Does anybody know what the output voltage should be on the Exciter Coil and Pulse Generator? Also, input voltage on the ignition coil? (When the motor is being kicked over)
Can I measure these with a digital multimeter? Or, do I need an instrument with higher sensitivity or something? I am getting readings from all the connections, but I don't know what operating voltages are.

All my components measure within resistance spec according to the Honda Service Manual. (lotta good that is)

I have checked, rechecked, and checked again the continuity of the harness and all grounding contacts.

On a good kick, I am getting around 18 volts from the Exciter Coil when it is disconnected. When I connect it to the harness and kick it over, voltage drops to zero (or there-abouts). This makes me suspicious. Either there is a short in (all of) the CDI or the Exciter Coil is not putting out enough juice to supply the CDI. If I had some real measurements to go by, maybe that would help.

I have run ads around here trying to buy a 250R but no bites on that. The 86 has a different CDI, but I think I could make it work if I got the harness.

Thanks
phil



[This message has been edited by philzie (edited 12-08-1999).]