http://www.ridingvintage.com/2012/10...on-points.html


Back in the day, always carried an extra set of Blue Streaks, just in case.

 

Yup, and a matchbook cover would guage a pretty decent gap, then top dead center or timing mark in the plug on the case, and then turn the timer until the points just grip a bit of cigarette paper, then turn it back until it just lets go. Tighten and ride.

 

No offence ...but WTH does this have to do with a Touring HD?

 

That's old school touring....

 

Not that I don't appreciate the advancements made since the wheel, but there is something to be said for knowing that, if trouble occurs, we had a good chance of patching it up and rolling on. I've seen some major work pulled off in parking lots, guys had to be in tune with their bikes and everybody carried tools, chains, etc.

 

for anyone who is riding vintage- the eBeyond 2000 ignition sensor is a 1 wire install and works 6 or 12 volt.
Advance is still manual for my '53

my points problems were usually related to crap condensors and a charging "system" which would usually be about 7.6 volts at road speeds- but not always!



and that is a touring bike!

Mike

 

Really enjoyed this thread!! Thanks for posting..... ride safe and often

 

Brings back memories. I didn't own a Harley back then, but I do remember setting a dual point setup & timing on my first bike, a 1976 Honda 550/4 (new). My first HD was a 1978 1/2 FXE (used) that came stock with electronic ignition. I did spend a lot of time bent over fenders, adjusting point gaps to achieve the right dwell reading on many a car. I think the old match book cover gave you about a .015 gap on the points; a good substitute for a feeler gauge when you're stuck on the side of the road.

 

I don't miss points at all.

 

I have an old Norton with points. Finicky to say the least.