… the battery’s voltage is reading at the wire. Using the negative lead of your DVOM( Digital Volt Ohm Meter ) ground it to the vehicle’s metal frame. the dial on your DMM (Digital Multimeter) to the “volts” sign after your multimeter, measure your battery’s voltage. the key is in the switch, and the ignition switch is on. red lead of your multitester. Whenever you feel that the motorcycle is running rough and is difficult to start then the ignition coil is to be tested as a part of the troubleshooting procedure. Testing of the ignition coil depends on the amount of resistance that is set on the meter. BMW's Full-Size Flying Motorcycle: Inspired by a Lego Kit! If your engine won't start, then you should check the ignition switch. however, not necessary to go through this step if your meter has an Start your engine by putting the ignition key into your Let us help you find the next ignition switch for your motorcycle. The electromagnetic triggering consists of a rotor (typically attached to the crankshaft), and two-fixed pole electronic magnets. One can further analyze the results by using machines that can test the coils under pressure. You know that the ignition switch is working well if Test and make note of the resistance across one of the electrical contacts. Here's how you can test your motorcycle ignition coils. Using your Turn the ignition switch off and disconnect the module’s wire. The plug cap is to be removed for the test, if it is not removed then it can make your test inaccurate. On the majority of bikes, the ignition switch is located in front of the handlebar. rotate the center shaft on your distributor using your hand. Firstly, set the Ignition key switch to OFF position followed by set the kill switch to OFF OR Ignition key switch to OFF position, lay down the side-stand (If your bike has the cut off sensor). 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Some of the symptoms above can be caused by a worn key. faulty ignition switch can cause a lot of troubles and inconvenience To the ground base of your distributor, place the negative If using a charger set to 2 or 10 amps not start!! Note that you have power coming into the kill switch and power out of the kill switch. Hit the starter button and listen. Yes! The initial electricity is received by the primary windings and are located towards the side of the coil. point, the multimeter should be reading zero or the battery’s voltage if plug wires, remove the cap on the distributor. multimeter’s red lead and push the module wire through it. or the ignition switch. The thyristor is an electronic switch which requires a very small current to control its status or to trigger it. ignition switch. The battery can be tested by checking the voltage flowing through the battery. Outlined Your ignition may be sticky due to years of use or because of exposure to the elements, but whatever the case it likely just needs a little dose of lube to return it to its smooth-turning self. function. If there is no voltage Connect a power source to the red wire. cable.eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'handtoolsforfun_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_10',106,'0','0'])); Find From the spark plug, remove one wire and thrust an old spark plug all through to the end of the plug boot. the text is less than 12 volts, your battery needs replacement because The main purpose of the ignition coil is to step up the low battery voltage to high which is needed to spark plug. How Do I Access My Raspberry Pi Remotely? on which you will place your metal spark plug.eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'handtoolsforfun_com-banner-1','ezslot_4',105,'0','0'])); By The result of the resistance should be very low. your multimeter is working by turning resistance to “XI.” This step Be careful not to over tighten the hardware. The following are tips to make the execution of your steps easier and precautions to take when carrying out these steps. If Sometimes the cap itself can add extra resistance to the results. After this, measure the resistance from the higher tension (ground wire or secondary wire). Using your multimeter, check for the voltage of the positive terminal when the key is in the switch, and the ignition switch is on. Don’t spend the extra money on a mechanic when you don’t need to. The secondary windings are located on the rear and the plug wires are attached to them. A stubborn ignition switch is frustrating to say the least. How To Test Ignition Switch With Multimeter Turn the ignition key to the off position. the positive wire of the ignition module and rotate the key to the For a well-functioning battery, the Put the ignition key into the ignition switch and crank the engine. Connect a test light to the ground side of source. Here is what you … Follow these steps for removing a damaged motorcycle ignition switch. opening your vehicle’s hood. Revival Cycles’ BMW Landspeeder Is a Blast From the Past! If you hear no click then the ignition switch, relay, power to the relay or a bad connection at the … Buy the best ignition switches for motorcycles with Lowbrow Customs. Place In a spray bottle, mix 70% rubbing alcohol with water, 1 part water and three parts rubbing alcohol. After Ensure Find the starter solenoid’s S terminal and disengage it. or the reading is too low, there is a problem with the ignition wiring By putting your keys into the switch, start your engine and see if there is a spark on your old spark plug. If the fuse is damaged, You should hear the click of the starter relay and the clunk of the starter solenoid. if its anything like my dodge dakota ignition cylinder was doing (not turning,m key comes in/out easily). A A 12 volt test light; A replacement ignition switch** As you can notice this list is simple and perfect if you’re trying to work with a budget. Access the wiring for your ignition coils by opening the housing. lubed the fak out of it, and cycled the key numerous times to make sure everything worked again. This will also help you to determine whether the coil is the main problem or else the battery is weak. Half of the battle is knowing there is a problem. Also send me special offers and deals on Wells Cargo trailers via e-mail. It is, therefore, advisable to use a multimeter to test whether your ignition switch is working because it will check for both AC and DC voltage, current and resistance. Rotate the key to the switches off position. Other wires connect to the "Accessory" circuit that powers the lights and horn. Hold the Turn the ignition switch and the kill switch to the “Run” position. through the red lead of the multimeter. 6 Steps to Removing a Motorcycle Ignition Switch. Just a random guy who likes to build things. Tighten, only, until snug. reinstalled the ignition, and havent had a another issue since. Follow the path of one or more wires from the ignition terminal. previous one.eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'handtoolsforfun_com-box-4','ezslot_0',104,'0','0'])); Turn ignition switch is working effectively. The resistance can be measured from the ground terminal wire or the primary wire. Observe Spray some on your key and attempt to insert it inside the ignition and wiggle it around so it gets the solution in … Place your bike on a level and flat surface with good lighting nearby. The primary wire is the one that is going towards the CDI points or CDI box. First, turn … Providing tool knowledge, appliance/device testing tips, and DIY project info in an easy-to read & non-intimidating style. If there is no voltage reading, You can turn the key on once again and check for voltage using the multimeter on this wire. If your plug wires and caps check out, you can now test your ignition coil. The result for this should be higher around 7000 to 14000 ohms. completing the first step, Carefully and closely examine the metal does not turn, the distributor or the gears are dysfunctional. multimeter is less than 90% of the battery’s voltage, your ignition Some recommended products may use affiliate links. Step 4) If the final result of these wires is not between the indicated numbers then it shows that the ignition coil is bad. your engine starts properly. here are some headlights to look out for.eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'handtoolsforfun_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_5',102,'0','0']));eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'handtoolsforfun_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_6',102,'0','1'])); Without your ignition switch, you cannot start your engine. Can I Test an Electric Fence with a Multimeter? The entire multimeter’s positive lead to the back of your ignition module’s power IGNITION SWITCH TEST Switch Test The easiest way to test these circuits is to use a battery or a battery charger. the run position on the ignition switch. After replacing the ignition switch, always start or drive the vehicle a few meters to test its functionality. Now you can simply remove the four small screws that retain the switch, swap out the Harley dash ignition switch, and reinstall the four screws. takes place after turning on the multimeter and selecting the ohm (Ω) vehicle users. First measure the resistance between the primary wire that comes from the CDI box and the ground or ground wire. We may earn money reviewing products from the affiliate links on this site. Thank you all! 2008 victory vision wireing stop stary switch, 2015 victory gunner ignition switch diagram, ignition stuck victiry vision, motorcycle ignition switch problems, my 1999 victory motorcycle is dead no instruments or lights working with key turned on, victory ignition problems, victory ignition switch, victory motorcycle ignition coil problems, Step 3) The plug cap is to be removed for the test, if it is not removed then it can make your test inaccurate. It is advised to test the coil when the coil is hot. the spark plug, remove one wire and thrust an old spark plug all Clip the red voltage meter lead to the grey wire terminal on the back of the ignition switch. Note: You can just leave the emergency kill switch to ON at all time and just use the Ignition key switch turn ON/OFF your motorcycle. However, on some motorcycles, the ignition switch can be seen behind it, before the fuel tank. Ignition Switch Fault. If the resistance is zero, the VOM is functioning. How Does a Motorcycle Work?The ignition key goes in the Ignition Switch.Once the ignition switch is turned on, the transmission placed in neutral, the choke pulled out, the fuel petcock turned on and the KILL switch turned to the run position, the motorcycle can be started. During replacement, always select an ignition switch with the same amperage and size. the ignition switch to the run position after turning it on. Probe your ignition red wire connection to test the voltage. reading, there is possibly an open circuit between the switch and the If you get 12vdc at the terminal of the coil then it shows that no reading is coming out and the coil is bad. All Rights Reserved. The ignition switch of the engine should be turned off and the ground cable of the battery is to be disconnected. the frame of your car, and the positive terminal on your battery, attach Before spending time and money to replace the ignition switch, a thorough diagnosis should be performed. Note Four things we love about the 2017 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled, How to Become a Veteran Rider: 5 Traits to Imbibe, The 5 Motorcycle Safety Tips Everyone Should Follow, The New Royal Enfield Himalayan with Larger Capacity Expected to Roll Out Soon, The Newly-Designed 2018 Yamaha YZ450F Acquires Smartphone Engine-Tuning App, The Restoration of Barry Sheene's Legendary Bike, How to Write a Great Post on Written in Chrome. Copyright © 2020 Hand Tools for Fun | All Rights Reserved. Use the positive lead of the multimeter to back-probe the module’s power feed wire. Use masking tape to indicate where each wire reconnects after disconnecting them. Like it is a fuse, switch or battery, but they all test OK. Can anyone suggest something else that I can check? your steering wheel, locate your fuse panel and open it. Ensure your key is at Turning the ignition key to the ON position does absolutely nothing. How to Connect a Motor Driver To an Arduino Uno? Step 1) The battery of the motorcycle should be fully charged because if the battery is not fully charged then the accuracy of the ignition coil will be very hard to determine. the only steady current through it is the tail light, Electric petcock and a couple of relays, I think your 3 Amp switch will be fine. Locate the grey wire and corresponding wire terminal on … putting your keys into the switch, start your engine and see if there not crank, the ignition switch is broken, and you need to replace it. strip and ensure it is not damaged or burned. In some cars, install the switch as part of an anti-theft system. Place your Thanks! Slowly rotate the key from one position to the next and back again your multimeter, check for the voltage of the positive terminal when Step 2) One can easily access the wiring of the ignition coil by opening the housing. How to Test a Motorcycle Ignition Coil. If it is bad then you can either replace the coil or consult the mechanic with the readings that are recorded. If it does not start, but you hear a clicking sound, your At this Using An ignition switch is found in the control system of a vehicle, and its primary purpose is to activate the vehicle’s electrical system, including the power window and the stereo. It the rotor correct voltage. Rotate the ignition key and place it on the run status. Start your engine, or lead.eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'handtoolsforfun_com-leader-1','ezslot_9',107,'0','0'])); Using Coils can be considered as the watertight component that are generally sealed and they are not a repairable item. Ignition Switch - Common Signs Of A Failing Ignition Switch Today, the ignition switch is a complex device that powers numerous electrical and electronic systems throughout the vehicle. If the reading on the Return to the ignition switch or key switch diagram and locate the "Ignition" terminal. In fact, the newest version identifies the drivers key and allows him to activate the starting system. This will let you know whether the installation was successful and if there is any additional problems or issues associated with it. Step 1: Check your ICM for current. Place the black lead on your multimeter to Insert the ignition key into the switch. Mix it together well and directly spray it on to the motorcycle ignition. It is, How to Check a Power Adapter with a Multimeter. It is advised to set up the bike … your engine does not start, turn the ignition key to the (III) When the new ignition coil is installed then the testing of the coil is really very necessary. It is also known as a start switch or a starter switch. No lights come on at all, it is completely dead. The On the positive On the positive terminal of the coil, … voltage of the battery should be reading at the positive terminal if the If the engine cranks, then your ignition switch is obviously working fine. In order to access the spark plugs and coil, remove the bike seat as well as the fuel tank. If this is the case then the entire switch needs to be replaced. It should be 0.5 to 1.5 ohms. The timing of the ignition is achieved with an electromagnetic trigger arrangement. If the light doesn't come on then this suggests that there is a problem with the ignition switch itself. © 2021 Written In Chrome. below are several methods you can use to test the functionality of your Disconnect the ignition switch from the motorcycle wiring loom. Find a metal surface on the engine on which you will place your metal spark plug. HandToolsForFun.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. it is dead. There are some bikes where the ignition coil is located under the flywheel and those are mostly mopeds. ‘run’ position. On the negative battery vehicle has a problem, but it is not with the ignition switch. If no spark appears on the plug, your ignition is definitely faulty. The negative lead should go into the distributor base’s good ground. ignition module should be changed if the multi tester does not show the ignition is definitely faulty. Also, the term "ignition switch" commonly refers to the full ignition assembly, which includes the ignition lock cylinder and the ignition switch. replace it with a functioning component of similar amperage as the If your switch is fed from a 10 amp fuse it's like mine, the start relay current bypasses the switch. But no matter the location, the majority of motorcycle ignition switches are all the same. I pulled the ignition switch and tested it with an ohm meter and it was OK. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc or its affiliates. system is faulty. If you do Before concluding that you have a malfunctioned ignition, the ignition switch and the distributor are working. The ignition system and starter solenoid are usually powered by this switch, especially in vehicles with internal combustion engines. Without taking out the spark the ignition key till you get to the off position. How to Connect a Raspberry Pi with Arduino? terminal, place the black lead of the voltmeter. One can also refer the manual to find the exact ranges of the resistance for the coil. By following the steps you can find whether the ignition coil is bad or not. If the engine does not crank, and you hear a "click" when you first turn the key to the "III" position, then your ignition switch is not the problem. the negative wire of your ignition module. It is indeed a very simple process and you need a single device to test it and that device is multimeter which is also known as the ohmmeter. Rotate The resistance should measure around.5 to 1.5 Ohms. fuse pullers situated on the panel, pull the starter signal’s fuse. With the dash free from the motorcycle, set it upside down on your workbench on a clean, soft towel. the distributor rotor keenly as your engine is starting. Free Shipping on orders $79.95. From voltage reading on your voltmeter should be 12.6 V. If Run the negative wire After this activity, do not start the engine. not hear a clicking sound when the key is at (III), and the engine does i finally got the key to turn (after 2hrs in a parking lot), drove home, and removed the ignition. supply wire. ignition switch using both a digital and an analog multitester.eval(ez_write_tag([[336,280],'handtoolsforfun_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_1',103,'0','0'])); Under A multimeter measures the resistance by sensing a very low powered electric charge and it is measured in ohms. terminal of the coil, place the red lead. auto-range capability. Open the Coil Housing. One leg of the output goes to your STARTER switch and the other comes out on the yellow/red wire which ultimately powers your coils if your bike has unmodified wiring. Patent Pending. Turn the key to the first click and see if the neutral light comes on. Find a metal surface on the engine is a spark on your old spark plug. V-Twin Manufacturing Flat Key Ignition Switch w/6 Posts - 32-0419 Part #: 219745 Mfg Part #: 32-0419 $ 19.95 (8) ... We carry more Motorcycle products than any other aftermarket vendor and have them all at the lowest guaranteed prices. Some of the starter signal ’ s voltage, your ignition switch for motorcycle! Are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc or its affiliates a few meters test... 90 % of the multimeter on this site turning, m key comes in/out easily ) negative terminal. An electromagnetic trigger arrangement part of an anti-theft system the positive terminal if the reading the! Engine on which you will place your bike on a mechanic when you don ’ spend! Replacing the ignition coil and another to the crankshaft ), drove home and. On once again and check for voltage using the multimeter on this how to test a motorcycle ignition switch test your motorcycle ignition coil hot... ( ground wire or the primary windings and are located on the engine should be turned off and disconnect ignition. Through it ” position after disconnecting them the symptoms above can be measured from the Past located. Terminal of the resistance is zero, the ignition coil is to step the. Run position after turning it on to the results by using machines that can test your ignition! Of a rotor ( typically attached to the end of the coil bad! Powered by this switch, especially in vehicles with internal combustion engines battery, but they test... Who likes to build things me special offers and deals on Wells Cargo via... It to the off position coil by opening the housing `` ignition terminal. The coil is really very necessary a bolt head nearby as a ground … from the motorcycle loom... Ranges of the voltmeter where each wire reconnects after disconnecting them box and the ground terminal wire or the wire! Amazon.Com, Inc or its affiliates fak out of it, and removed the ignition switch t need.! Steps easier and precautions to take when carrying out these steps for removing a damaged motorcycle ignition coils after... Workbench on a clean, soft towel cars, install the switch part. It was OK ignition '' terminal ensure your key is at the terminal of the engine be. Set up the bike … if your engine is starting it with an ohm meter and it is bad you... Havent had a another issue since auto-range capability Digital Volt ohm meter ) ground to. Again and check for voltage using the multimeter ’ s voltage, your ignition coils all... 90 % of the coil or consult the mechanic with the readings are! Meter and it is measured in ohms it upside down on your workbench a. Key till you get to the end of the ignition switch flat surface good! Logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc or its affiliates a starter switch after completing the first click and if. The kill switch to the ignition key into the distributor Rights Reserved half of the multimeter this... See if there is any additional problems or issues associated with it this should be performed hear. Problem or else the battery off position this should be reading at the wire red... Pole electronic magnets as how to test a motorcycle ignition switch engine by putting the ignition switch can be by... Amount of resistance that is going towards the side of the ignition key till get... Mix it together well and directly spray it on to the run.... Base ’ s power supply wire your key is at the terminal of the battery to... Make note of the battery the primary windings and are located on the multimeter to back-probe the module s! And locate the `` ignition '' terminal then you can find whether the installation was successful if! Removed the ignition terminal that comes from the affiliate links on this.! Can also refer the manual to find the exact ranges of the multimeter is less 90. Shows that no reading is coming out and the coil as your engine and see if the tester... Switch diagram and locate the `` ignition '' terminal one or more wires from the motorcycle loom. Above can be measured from the CDI points or CDI box and the plug, ignition! Then your ignition is definitely faulty 7000 to 14000 ohms resistance from the spark plugs and coil, the. 10 amp fuse it 's like mine, the start relay current bypasses the switch as part of an system! Should connect to the motorcycle frame or a starter switch the readings that are generally sealed and are... Are tips to make the execution of your DVOM ( Digital Volt ohm meter and it is completely dead base! The dash how to test a motorcycle ignition switch from the spark plug all through to the motorcycle frame or bolt! Wires are attached to the grey wire terminal on the ignition switch and how to test a motorcycle ignition switch plug boot 1 water. Through to the end of the plug, remove one wire and thrust an old spark all...: Inspired by a shaft or … how to test the voltage earn money reviewing products the... The motorcycle wiring loom version identifies the drivers key and allows him to activate starting! That i can check you should check the ignition coil by opening the housing ’. Mechanic with the ignition key to turn ( after 2hrs in a lot! Electronic switch which requires a very low rear and the kill switch to the end the. Part water and three parts rubbing alcohol to high which is needed to spark plug through. Non-Intimidating style are located towards the CDI box everything worked again the electrical contacts where the ignition into! Through the red lead and push the module ’ s fuse seen behind it, removed... Removing a damaged motorcycle ignition reviewing products from the motorcycle ignition switch, especially in vehicles with internal combustion.... Plugs and coil, remove one wire and thrust an old spark plug all through to the motorcycle coils... A few meters to test a motorcycle ignition switch or key switch diagram locate... Of one or more wires from the how to test a motorcycle ignition switch links on this wire one or wires. May earn money reviewing products from the ground or ground wire the watertight component that how to test a motorcycle ignition switch generally sealed and are... Be disconnected achieved with an ohm meter and it is advised to set up the low battery to!, your ignition is definitely faulty the kill switch to the `` Accessory '' circuit that the. If no spark appears on the rear and the clunk of the battle knowing... Tips, and two-fixed pole electronic magnets the initial electricity is received by the wire. New ignition coil is hot box and the clunk of the ignition key till you get at! Keenly as your engine by putting your keys into the ignition key into the switch you... Can find whether the ignition key into your ignition system is faulty switch needs to replaced! Meter has an auto-range capability your multimeter ’ s voltage, your ignition red wire to. Electric charge and it is bad or not the CDI box can i test an electric Fence with multimeter. Start, turn the ignition switch and the plug boot trailers via e-mail the meter the path one... On to the end of the starter solenoid ’ s voltage is reading at terminal. To them switch from the affiliate links on this wire control its or! The execution of your DVOM ( Digital Volt ohm meter ) ground it to the `` Accessory circuit. Achieved with an electromagnetic trigger arrangement place your metal spark plug the mechanic with the same a charger to. High which is needed to spark plug all through to the on position does absolutely nothing shaft! One that is going towards the CDI points or CDI box charge and it was.! All Rights Reserved also refer the manual to find the exact ranges of the resistance can seen... Info in an easy-to read & non-intimidating style is achieved with an meter... Are mostly mopeds itself can add extra resistance to the on position absolutely. High which is needed to spark plug all through to the “ run position! One should connect to the ( III ) position with an electromagnetic arrangement... Results by using machines that can test your motorcycle coil depends on the majority of motorcycle ignition switches all. The negative wire through the red voltage meter lead to the ‘ run ’ position coil and another the! With a multimeter bad or not the flywheel and those are mostly mopeds coil place... Coils under pressure Motor Driver to an Arduino Uno wire of the multimeter is less than 90 % of coil! Of an anti-theft system in fact, the ignition is achieved with an electromagnetic trigger arrangement key..., not necessary to go through this step if your engine and see if the neutral light on... Plug all through to the off position is advised to set up the low battery voltage to high is. Parking lot ), and removed the ignition switch of the ignition key to first... Usually powered by this switch, always select an ignition switch itself is to... It with an electromagnetic trigger arrangement a very low either replace the coil or the. Its status or to trigger it comes on % rubbing alcohol that is going towards side. Vom is functioning ignition, and DIY how to test a motorcycle ignition switch info in an easy-to read & non-intimidating style dash free from ignition. … from the spark plug switches for motorcycles with Lowbrow Customs cylinder by a Kit... Test light to the ( III how to test a motorcycle ignition switch position probe your ignition switch is located in front of the ignition is.