NEWB HELP! Don't Know where to start. Spark plugs are not sparking starter not workin

[iphonhax]

Hey all! I am new to posting on this site, I have been lurking around reading stuff for a while now. I have a bike that I got from a friend it is a 1981 XS400S and when I got it the engine turned over and the starter worked. Well I took it apart painted the frame and put it back together (KINDA). Fast forward 2 years later I am finally able to start working on it again. I previously replaced the Carb due to it having a broken float valve piece and had to get a new battery etc. Well when I hooked the new battery in this year the the lights come on when I turn the ignition but the starter wont fire. Now the electrical is not hooked up all the way as I cant remember it 100%. I have a bunch of pictures and any help would be appreciated. Also I used a voltmeter on the plug that goes to the spark plug and it seems to be receiving power.

I was wondering what are the basics I need hooked up as far as electric goes, I was planning on gutting most of the add on stuff and making it more of a bare bones bike without all the extra junk. Possibly even replacing the wiring all together. Now I work as a Computer Technician so I am really good with computer but not so much with motors/bikes.

I would appreciate any insight and help on the issue. Thanks!!!

 

[xschris]

I would start by looking at the wiring and make sure it is all connected and grounded proper. http://www.xs400.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4466 Also if you have not already download the manual and start reading Welcome to the forum.

 

[iphonhax]

Thanks. Ya I have been looking at the wiring diagrams and the book that I downloaded. Reading these manuals is like reading Chinese. Do I NEED EVERYTHING hooked up? Or what are the basics that will stop it from turning over...

 

[DARKMIDKNIGHTWARRIOR]

Welcome to the forum!

 

[xschris]

If your going to rewire the bike for basic running there are a few setups in the forum for that. But when using the factory harness a lot of systems rely on others to work proper. Best way is to make sure most or all is attached correctly.

 

[iphonhax]

Ok, Thanks man!

 

[iphonhax]

Also as seen in the above picture. If the relay's or fuses are rusted out they would need to be replaced for the system to work correct?
Thanks again.

 

[DARKMIDKNIGHTWARRIOR]

You could try to clean up the tabs for elec. connection, carefully.

 

[iphonhax]

What would you recommend using to clean them? Vinegar and a scrubber?

 

[levdir]

Emery cloth and Scotch-Brite both work well for cleaning contacts.

 

[iphonhax]

Thanks! I will work on it and keep you guys updated!

 

[iphonhax]

Anyone got any ideas on making a cheap lift to get the bike up off the ground and make it easier to work on?

 

[smurfy71]

I've thought about building a platform with a ramp about 2 feet off the ground for working on my bike and sleds. It's a bitch on the back when you have to wrench on them.

 

[iphonhax]

Very True. But I Got to work on it today. I had the cables hooked up wrong to the starter so I got the automatic starter working now. I just don't think I am getting any spark at the spark plugs although I am getting voltage at the spark plugs. I am hoping it was just a dead battery so I am charging it at the moment. So far its looking up tho! I also put a 2x4 up a ramp to a square I made with 2x6's. Rolled it up the 2x4 and it fell on the 2x6's and removed the 2x4. Not as far up as I wanted but it helps.

 

[iphonhax]

OK I AM GETTING NO SPARK... I got the spark plug out and no sparks. The starter is working everything is turning. But no sparks. Not sure what to test next. I am getting voltage into the coils but idk what to check next.

 

[Lou Ranger]

Anyone got any ideas on making a cheap lift to get the bike up off the ground and make it easier to work on?

If you have a horizontal ceiling joist, or can attach a 2 x 6 to a couple of roof joists, here's a simple technique using ropes and a light-duty cable come-along:

 

[xschris]

I would test the coils. Are the plugs new?

 

[iphonhax]

Yea Plugs are new. So I will test the coils. It should say the voltage its suppose to read in one of the service manuals?

 

[iphonhax]

And that's a great idea for lifting it up. I am working on it under my tree outside so I could rig that up on of the huge branches.

 

[Lou Ranger]

And that's a great idea for lifting it up. I am working on it under my tree outside so I could rig that up on of the huge branches.

Excellent!
When you get that rig in place, you'll also be able to change the fork oil without fooling around dismantling the top ends.
Once drained, just remove the battery, have the gas tank near empty, hoist up the front end and you can pour the new oil into the drain holes.