[SiphonicToast]

Hey,

So I have an interesting issue with my CB400TII 1978. After the bike has been sitting for a few days it will have trouble starting. I could run the starter motor a good amount of time and ill get nothing. However, when I take out one of the spark plugs and hold it to the engine to check the spark there will be ignition on the other cylinder. When I put the spark plug back in the bike starts right up, no issues. I havent seen this happen ones its been running that same day, it seems to only happen if its been sitting.

Does anyone have any insight on this? I'm not really sure what causes this issue?


-Thanks

 

[dtsmjr8dan]

Did you give the float bowls ample time to fill before trying?

 

[Old Okie]

I was told that on this bike the ignition is grounded by the spark plugs, or something like that.
Removing and replacing the spark may help to complete the grounding or the plug wires may be bad.
Just a thought.

 

[mike in idaho]

Are the plugs wet or dry when you take them out?

 

[Rob Axel]

Put a new (good) set of plugs in.. I remeber having a similar issue with a different bike.. I think it was either plugs or a condenser? I can't remeber.. but I did check all my grounds.. so who knows what the actual solution was..
IF yours is not a fuel issue.

 

[Lefty]

Battery has lost charge after sitting.

 

[dtsmjr8dan]

Battery has lost charge after sitting.

These models run without a battery, Lefty. The CDI ignition is self energizing by the stator. I find with mine, I need to let it sit for a couple of minutes before starting cold to let the fuel bowls get completely full. Then, pull the choke out and away she goes.

 

[Dabba]

Battery has lost charge after sitting.

Yup, batteries not required. The battery on mine is shot.. dead a doornail and itll start on the second kick.