No spark, electrical problem

[farmerj]

Hi all,

2005 DE300, no spark = no happy

The bike will actually start sometimes, but at more than 1/2 throttle runs badly. It seems like this problem progressed - intermittent one day, worse the next, wouldn't run the next.

It actually seems like after the bike heats up a bit, the problem worsens. After running for a few minutes, it dies and won't start again.

When I take out the plug, ground it, and crank over the engine I see a weak spark 1 time in 20.

I checked the wiring loom for breaks, and have replaced the coil. The ground is on the coil mounting bolt, right? I also disconnected the stop switch (I think)...black wire at the coil...

I've read a number of threads, and suppose a CDI swap is next - but wondered if the fact that it seems so worsen after warming up gives a clue as to the nature of the problem.

Thanks,

Jeff

 

[pscook]

Have you cleaned the carb recently? Just to remove one more variable.

Other than that, if it's related to heat, it might be your ignitor (igniter?) under the ignition/flywheel cover.

 

[Anders]

Hi all,

2005 DE300, no spark = no happy
...
When I take out the plug, ground it, and crank over the engine I see a weak spark 1 time in 20.
...
I checked the wiring loom for breaks, and have replaced the coil. The ground is on the coil mounting bolt, right? I also disconnected the stop switch (I think)...black wire at the coil...

Did you clean (by abrasive paper or similar) the mounting posts for the coil? The coil is grounded thru its mounting screws, and need a good ground connection to the frame. I had similar problems on my '06 200, although not that bad. It would always start, but sometimes it would not rev. I replaced the complete ignition and flywheel (but not the CDI), but I think it all came down to proper ground connections.

 

[Coop]

Sure sounds like a bad ground.

 

[adv rider]

poor spark

Try disconnecting the kill switch, I have seen several switch failures cause similar problems.

 

[desertgasser300]

Just went thru this on my wife's bikes. Turned out to be the stator. Replaced with a KTM stator and it fired right up.

 

[farmerj]

Thanks guys, I will go through those items, good suggestions!

 

[normanator27]

I had a similar problem on an old tt600, the bike would run ok until it got hot then it would cough and splutter and then stop and not start again until it cooled down. i replaced the regulator rectifier and it fixed it right up.

Hi all,

2005 DE300, no spark = no happy

The bike will actually start sometimes, but at more than 1/2 throttle runs badly. It seems like this problem progressed - intermittent one day, worse the next, wouldn't run the next.

It actually seems like after the bike heats up a bit, the problem worsens. After running for a few minutes, it dies and won't start again.

When I take out the plug, ground it, and crank over the engine I see a weak spark 1 time in 20.

I checked the wiring loom for breaks, and have replaced the coil. The ground is on the coil mounting bolt, right? I also disconnected the stop switch (I think)...black wire at the coil...

I've read a number of threads, and suppose a CDI swap is next - but wondered if the fact that it seems so worsen after warming up gives a clue as to the nature of the problem.

Thanks,

Jeff

 

[davedunaway]

No spark

Hi Jeff,
Went thru this exact same problem on my 06-300. Checked wires,grounds,coils,kill switches etc,borrowed a cdi from another GG and it ran perfect. End of problem. These have been known to break down over time. On a happier note my bike ran way better all across the board after the cdi swap. Almost like the old cdi was gradually getting weaker. Most Ktm components will fit if you don't have a gasser part handy.
Good luck,
Dave

 

[farmerj]

Thanks for the help, guys.

Here's a picture (or two) of my stator. I'm thinking this doesn't look right!??

Can anyone confirm?

[/IMG]

 

[Coop]

What are the test numbers? Only real way to check a stator is put a meter on it, can't go by looks really.

 

[farmerj]

The '05 Parts Manual shows CDI part #M250534007. I see a 2011 250 box for sale, part #250634007. One number off. Does anyone know the difference?

Thanks,

Jeff

 

[firffighter]

Hey Jeff,

Just curious if you got the gasser going?

 

[farmerj]

Long story, swapped stator/flywheel, cdi, plug boot, coil, etc. and still couldn't get relief. So it's in at the shop, we'll see what they can find!

In the meantime, I've been riding a 70 degree 'Berg that I purchased last fall. So I have been able to do some riding, should upload some pictures from Shasta last Feb. That is some fun riding down there!

Ready to get out around here, too, besides the local woods - so if you "have space" in a future outing let me know

Jeff

 

[firffighter]

Wow,that's weird. Very curious what the issue is!

What Berg did you end up with?

I'm thinking we have to do a meet n greet Gasgas ride with the oregon guys! Maybe September.

If you get a chance I would highly recommend the poker run at Nestucca on Aug 10. Applegate Rough Riders club puts it on and it is a great event. Great group of folks from Applegate and the course is so fun! I've done it 3 years now, but will be out if town for this one. My brother and cousin are going to be there.

 

[farmerj]

Bottom line - reeds!

It sure seemed like a stator or CDI. I took it to a bike shop, it sat for two weeks, and I decided that since I really wanted a 2K3 anyway, I didn't need to pay them to swap in their stator - so I went and picked it up. Back home, obtained and put in 2K3, no luck. Obtained and switched out CDI, no go.

I had spark and fuel, but no starty!

Took it to another dealer - it sat for 2 1/2 months. They called me Friday and said that it runs! They tried a bunch of stuff and then took the carb off and reed cage. The reeds were blown, must have broken off chunks and been sent through the engine.

So she's running again!

Thought I'd post for those who are looking for answers in the future, here is one more thing to check that in hindsight, makes sense! Sure seemed like an electrical problem though.

Thanks to all of you for your help,

Jeff

P.S. - I have a DF II with the reeds set on "extra low" tension - I actually have black reed stops that were from a friend who was doing some testing for Mototassinari. The box says "High tension only, low tension will result in shorter reed life." I now believe it.