My 79 GS 550E starts and runs fine cold. Once it has warmed up, and I shut it off. It doesn't like to restart. I checked for spark with a spark tester and got a very week light. I replaced the sprk plugs and wires 2 yrs ago however I think everything else is OE. Anybody know for sure what the problem is?
if there is little spark when hot it is because there is high resistance somewhere. Change your plugs to start and check how hot your CDI unit and coils are getting IF you can mount your Capacitor in a diffrent location closer to the airflow it would'nt hurt
02busa82 wrote:would it be wise to just change the coils?
It might be wiser to test the coils when both cold and hot first. It could well be the coil(s)... how many does the bike have? I would have guessed just one with 2 output leads, but I don't know for sure.
test them with an ohmmeter. put 1 of the leads into teh spark plug end and the other to the positive terminal on the coil itsself. I can not give you specifis values on the resistance that you should be seeing, but a factory service manual usualy has that info. if you can not get that info from the dealer then try finding your manual here http://www.manualclub.com/
unless it has been changed the 79 gs550 has breaker point ignition.
Dyna makes an electronic unit that will replace the points and give you electronic ignition.if it has points the gap sets at .012-.016. the timing sets at 17 degrees btdc idling below 1550 rpm. i changed my 78 550 to the electronic unit for $149.00. it was worth it.
I have the manual for the 77- 78 and I believe everything is the same for the 79. I will check the points and I am considering this unit by Dyna. Thanks for the sugg. Keep the ideas coming!!
