[Robert Garey]

I've installed my mag and set points gap to start to open when flywheel timing mark is visible center of the view hole. Carb is newly rebuilt bendix idle jet set 1 1/2 turns out from bottom. Have checked pushrod adjustments, they are good. Have checked for mag spark, I have spark. Brand new spark plugs set at .20. Been kicking for two days, getting an occasional pop. Nothing else. MY QUESTION: will the flywheel timing mark show up on another stroke than compression? I set the mark by feeling compression with my thumb over front cylinder spark plug hole, then bumping motor till mark came into view. All thoughts and info are greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Robert Garey]

Which cylinder are you calling the front? The paperwork I have for my magneto kept saying front and really they meant the cylinder closest to the rear tire. Had the same issue and rotated the engine another time to the timing mark and bike fired right up.

I could be 10 degrees advanced or retarded on my magneto on a cold motor and it would run. Ran like crap but it would run. Same behavior as you when I used the "front" of the bike cylinder.

Hmmm...that's interesting. I'm timing on the front cylinder. I'll try what you did and give it a go.

I had a bike where I timed as you did. Would not fire. Many hairs were pulled from my head.

I then went back to basics and used my service manual's instructions on the timer for the magneto, which looked basically like Pete's.

Then the bike started up and ran.

I believe different cams can lead one to feel "compression" that isn't really there.

Try Pete's way.

Thanks for your reply

Are you setting it on the narrow lobe for the front cylinder? whats your points gap?

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