clean ignition

[PapaAl86]

how do I clean conection at key switch? I'm having problems with no spark on back plugs. I read in one forum possile low voltage from key switch,I've already checked ohms on pickup coils & ignition coils. I had a problem with my key, (I could not turn it) so I used black carbon lube in ignition. Could that cause a problem?

thanks Al

[dingy]

The two connectors are on left side of bike near the hole in the black plastic shield behind the headlight bucket. There are two connectors, one has two large wires in it (Red one & Brown one) and the other has either two smaller wires if bike does not have CLASS unit (Blue one & Red with Black tracer). or three wires if it has CLASS unit (additional Red with Blue tracer)

 

Attached are a few of pictures of the insides of a 1st gen key switch.

 

Last picture is of switch mounted on a stripped 83 bike. The two bolts that hold the switch in place might be accessed from the bottom with a long extension. I think they are 12mm, but might be 10mm.

 

The black carbon should be removed from switch. The easiest way would be to get some contact cleaner and shoot into key slot.

 

This may not help though. There is no good drain path for the contact cleaner to exit from.

 

Black carbon is an electrical conductor, it is not a good choice to put in an electrical switch.

Gary

Edited September 6, 2010 by dingy

[PapaAl86]

thanks,when I used it I did not think about it being a conductor , but I mentioned it to my wife this am. That's why I asked. I didn't have any problems with spark untill about 2 weeks after I used it. thank you for you're help! Al

[skydoc_17]

Hey Allen,

Don't feel bad about using the Black Carbon Lube. I have seen this a few times. Dingy has a good solution with the contact cleaner. After I use the Contact Cleaner, I hit the key hole with compressed air, (For goodness sake, protect your eyes!) I have had to blast the key hole 6 or 7 times with the contact cleaner then the compressed air to get it all cleaned out. As George S would say, "be sure to clean the kill switch and starter switch as well." These other contacts as well as the ignition switch compromise the voltage to the TCI if dirty or worn out.

Earl