72 XLCH timing issue (I think)
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Cruiser
Joined: Feb 2022
Posts: 160
Likes: 36
From: Virginia
72 XLCH timing issue (I think)
I replaced the oil pump on my sporty. The cam cover was cracked so I installed one from E-Bay.
Double checked the cam gear alignment.
I got everything back together and set the timing as close as I could. It did not start. I moved it just a little clockwise and it started and ran ok.
I went for my test ride. Made it about 5 miles and the front cylinder stopped. I have good strong spark out of both plugs. I swapped the coil.
I need to double check the pushrod adjustment and run a compression test on the cylinder (I am certain it is good on compression).
The front plug comes out wet.
I have a Dyna DS6-1 ignition and a Dyna 5 Ohm coil. Spark is good on both plugs.
The bike will only run on rear cylinder.
Any ideas or advice would be a huge help.
Double checked the cam gear alignment.
I got everything back together and set the timing as close as I could. It did not start. I moved it just a little clockwise and it started and ran ok.
I went for my test ride. Made it about 5 miles and the front cylinder stopped. I have good strong spark out of both plugs. I swapped the coil.
I need to double check the pushrod adjustment and run a compression test on the cylinder (I am certain it is good on compression).
The front plug comes out wet.
I have a Dyna DS6-1 ignition and a Dyna 5 Ohm coil. Spark is good on both plugs.
The bike will only run on rear cylinder.
Any ideas or advice would be a huge help.
Thread Starter
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Cruiser
Joined: Feb 2022
Posts: 160
Likes: 36
From: Virginia
I tired to static time it today using the blue wire (rear cylinder feed).. Could not get light on my multimeter. I will give it another shot tomorrow.
I was using the double dots. Maybe I will go for the line.
Thanks.
I was using the double dots. Maybe I will go for the line.
Thanks.
You have to KNOW what is the correct flywheel timing mark for your year of engine. It is not good technique to guess or try them all one at a time. I don't know off hand what is correct for 1972 but someone will come along and tell you. You really should have factory service and parts manuals for the year of your bike.
Thread Starter
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Cruiser
Joined: Feb 2022
Posts: 160
Likes: 36
From: Virginia
Mick,
Thank for you reply.
I have the HD service manual. It covers several years and is for points. I may get time to tackle this tomorrow. If not maybe sunday afternoon. I ordered a timing light and sight glass for dynamic timing.
Thank for you reply.
I have the HD service manual. It covers several years and is for points. I may get time to tackle this tomorrow. If not maybe sunday afternoon. I ordered a timing light and sight glass for dynamic timing.
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From: la la land jerzey
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Cruiser
Joined: Feb 2022
Posts: 160
Likes: 36
From: Virginia
I tackled this problem this afternoon. I did a continuity test on both wires from the ignition to the coil. After tearing it apart I found the wires were good.
I then did a compression test of the front cylinder. It failed!! 60.
I looked at the valves and the lock nut did not seat on the intake. The exhaust was off as well. The tappet is hosed on the intake and it will not properly adjust. I got it close and Loctited it. Compression went back up to 120.
I rewired/sodered the ignition wires and It fires up and runs fine. I ordered a new tappet.
Thanks all. This was a bone head question. I should of been more logical and tested spark-compression.
I then did a compression test of the front cylinder. It failed!! 60.
I looked at the valves and the lock nut did not seat on the intake. The exhaust was off as well. The tappet is hosed on the intake and it will not properly adjust. I got it close and Loctited it. Compression went back up to 120.
I rewired/sodered the ignition wires and It fires up and runs fine. I ordered a new tappet.
Thanks all. This was a bone head question. I should of been more logical and tested spark-compression.
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CONGRATULATIONS! I hope you have learned something with this issue. Take tour time, pay attention to details and do it 1 step at a time. 1 mistake will cause much aggravation, like improperly adjusted valves Then it sends ya down the Dark Repair Rabbit Hole. So get out and RIDE IT!
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Cruiser
Joined: Feb 2022
Posts: 160
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From: Virginia
If it helps anyone. On my 72 XLCH; Three marks on the crank, one dot is front cylinder TDC, line is timing mark on front cylinder and TDC on rear, and double dots are timing marks for rear cylinder.