New problem
Road Captain
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 516
Likes: 0
From: Ontario, Canada home of the TAX YOU TO DEATH LIBERALS
RE: New problem
Check the ground wire on your ign. module. Amazing what a little corrosion under the spade does. If not that then your module might be breaking down when it is still cold on a start. i had the same problem last year and it turned out the mod was N>G>
Advanced
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 52
Likes: 0
RE: New problem
I'd be thinking ignition as well. Another check would be to heat the coil with a hair dryer before starting the bike and see how it runs. Pull the timing cover off and do the same with the ignition module. Usually these type ofproblems occur as the modules heat up. Yours could be happening the opposite way around.
Also worth while checking your manifold for leaks. Just possible it seals as it heats up.
Let us all know how you go.
Also worth while checking your manifold for leaks. Just possible it seals as it heats up.
Let us all know how you go.
Road Captain
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 614
Likes: 3
From: Northern Ontario, Canada
RE: New problem
I agree with those who suggest an intake leak.
Take some brake cleaner spray or use a propane torch (unlit unless you have a great insurance policy and you enjoy 3rd degree burns) and spray around the manifold.
If the idle changes, you have found your problem.
Does the bike warm up like it used to? If it has been taking longer, see above.
Any snap or pop on start up? See any puffs when firing off first thing in the morning? If so, could be a blown head gasket.
Take some brake cleaner spray or use a propane torch (unlit unless you have a great insurance policy and you enjoy 3rd degree burns) and spray around the manifold.
If the idle changes, you have found your problem.
Does the bike warm up like it used to? If it has been taking longer, see above.
Any snap or pop on start up? See any puffs when firing off first thing in the morning? If so, could be a blown head gasket.
Thread Starter
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Road Master
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 899
Likes: 9
From: Franklin, TN
RE: New problem
Well, it's been a while but I have still not figured out the problem. I tried spraying around the manifold but no change in RPMs or any white smoke. Swapped out the coil with a new one but still no change.
I rechecked the plugs and wires when I swapped the coil and they are fine. No cracks, oxidation, or anything like that and the plugs where clean. I also regapped them for the heck of it.
It seems the problem is the rear cylinder is missing. This is really noticeable with the drag pipes, you can see and feel the difference when it misses plus it puffs out a little black smoke. It is real faint and the light and angle has to be right but you can definitly see the smoke when it misses.
Think it's time to take it to the shop before I pour money into the wrong thing. I'm tempted to try the ignition module but I don't have anything to base that on so I think I'm better off letting more capable hands take over.
Thanks for the help guys..
I rechecked the plugs and wires when I swapped the coil and they are fine. No cracks, oxidation, or anything like that and the plugs where clean. I also regapped them for the heck of it.
It seems the problem is the rear cylinder is missing. This is really noticeable with the drag pipes, you can see and feel the difference when it misses plus it puffs out a little black smoke. It is real faint and the light and angle has to be right but you can definitly see the smoke when it misses.
Think it's time to take it to the shop before I pour money into the wrong thing. I'm tempted to try the ignition module but I don't have anything to base that on so I think I'm better off letting more capable hands take over.
Thanks for the help guys..
Thread Starter
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Road Master
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 899
Likes: 9
From: Franklin, TN
RE: New problem
ORIGINAL: 89 FXRS
The fact that it backfires says ignition. Trying replacing the spark plugs first. Bad plugs do happen. Then move on replacing parts. The other option is to wait until it quits or gets worse.
The fact that it backfires says ignition. Trying replacing the spark plugs first. Bad plugs do happen. Then move on replacing parts. The other option is to wait until it quits or gets worse.
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Advanced
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 66
Likes: 2
From: Sigourney, Iowa
RE: New problem
The experience level and willingness to help a "brother in need" on this forum are great. Lots of ideas to ponder and try.
Sure wish it'd quit raining so I could actually get my bike to the pavement.
Sure wish it'd quit raining so I could actually get my bike to the pavement.
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