points helllllllp

[59viperman]

  Help, when starting my 400 the two middle pipes remained cold, so I whipped of the points cover and noticed there was no sparky things around the right hand set. Also no spark at the plugs, now before all you Einstein's start bombarding me with what I am positive will be the very best of advice, ME and ELECTRICS don't mix, it is a black art so go easy. what will I do? I have by the way cleaned the contact surface and get the occasional spark and hot pipes but you couldn't use it like this, and I thought I was ready for mot.

[LesterPiglet]

If you have a multimeter check the points are getting power. Check the blue and yellow wires that go to the points. On my 550 they have a connection just behind the carbs.

[59viperman]

  hmmmm no meter, wouldn't know how to turn one on if I did. bugger.

[LesterPiglet]

Use a 12v bulb and a couple of wires then.

[59viperman]

  see what I mean? electrics, black art. its alright for you boys. ask me about the forex market or what the ftse is doing and I have no problem. give me a battery and ill use it to keep a door open. where do I put these magic wires ?

[Bitsa (Ralph Wright - RIP)]

One to earth and one to the nut and bolt on the points make sure points are open
Cheers
Bitsa

[ShaunJ]

Have you checked that the points are actually opening and closing and are set to the correct gap. Just wondering if the points have closed up hence no spark. Should be simple to check.

[59viperman]

  lots to do after supper,  thanks boys. I don't think they are open by the way.

[59viperman]

  cleaned both faces up and she seems to run fine, they were pretty bad . I wonder if a complete set of new would be a good idea? what do you think ?

[LesterPiglet]

If it aint broke don't fix it.  You should have spares just in case though.

[Lynx]

No disrespect meant but get a friend to help you, who knows what he's doing. Try this before you buy new points.

[59viperman]

  Good advice, will get a mate to have a gander as well.