1986 Bayou 185 Low Spark

[Beefcake35]

I bought a 1986 Bayou 185 for my son. This quad did not run when I bought it but I was hoping it would be an easy and inexpensive fix since I paid too much for it
Can anyone tell me the best way to troubleshoot to find why I am getting such low spark to the plug? I did pop once with Ether, but there just is not enough spark. Looks like it has a Igniter, and coil. I did buy a new coil for it and it didnt increase the spark. I have also swapped out the plug. Now I am pricing igniters and that can get extremely pricey. Before I do that I would like to be sure that is the problem. I also dont want to be replacing a bunch of parts that are not necessary.
Even if you have a wiring schematic that would be very helpful.


Thanks so much in advance for your help. I very much appreciate you all!

[Beefcake35]

is there any way to test the magneto to see if that is the problem?

Plz help

[Beefcake35]

Ok- I replaced the CDI still wont fire. Spraying ether in the cylinder and still nothing. It appears to have spark, but how do I tell if its enough? I am getting white spark. Dont know what else to try. I am getting impulse so it appears the magneto is working ok.

[jerryau]

Hi,

Just wondering whether you've managed to find the problem? I have exactly same problem. I've been playing around with it for the last four days, but can't work out what's going on.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Jerry

[Beefcake35]

It ended up being a timing problem on mine. I reset the timing and it fired right up and runs great.

[duster]

Stater - Alternator - Rectifier and/or Voltage Regulator - Coil - Plug Wire - Plug - CDI

Timing

[jerryau]

Thanks Beefcake35! I've adjusted the timing and valves and the bike fired up. I almost started replacing the electrics. Your reply saved me a couple of $$$.
Any ideas about the amounts and types of oils for the bike? I would like to replace all oils -- engine/gear, alternator, diff.

Thanks,
Jerry