How to Check a Motorcycle Coil
Motorcycle coils are essential components that play a crucial role in the ignition system of a motorcycle. They are responsible for converting low-voltage electrical energy into high-voltage energy, which is then used to create a spark that ignites the fuel-air mixture in the engine. Over time, motorcycle coils can become faulty, leading to poor performance or even engine failure. In this article, we will guide you through the process of checking a motorcycle coil to ensure that your bike is running smoothly.
Understanding the Motorcycle Coil
Before diving into the inspection process, it is important to have a basic understanding of how a motorcycle coil works. A coil consists of two main components: the primary winding and the secondary winding. The primary winding is connected to the battery and the ignition switch, while the secondary winding is connected to the spark plug. When the ignition switch is turned on, the primary winding creates a magnetic field, which induces a high voltage in the secondary winding. This high voltage is then used to create a spark at the spark plug.
Tools Required for Checking a Motorcycle Coil
To check a motorcycle coil, you will need the following tools:
1. Multimeter: A multimeter is essential for measuring the resistance and voltage of the coil.
2. Spark plug socket: A spark plug socket is required to remove the spark plug for testing.
3. Spark plug gapper: A spark plug gapper is used to check the gap between the spark plug electrodes.
4. Ignition coil: A spare ignition coil is recommended for comparison purposes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Checking a Motorcycle Coil
1. Identify the Coil: Locate the motorcycle coil on your bike. It is usually mounted on the engine and connected to the battery and the spark plug.
2. Remove the Spark Plug: Using a spark plug socket, remove the spark plug from the cylinder head.
3. Connect the Multimeter: Set your multimeter to the ohms (Ω) setting. Connect the multimeter probes to the primary winding of the coil. The primary winding is usually marked with a ‘P’ or ‘PR’ on the coil itself.
4. Measure the Primary Resistance: Check the resistance of the primary winding. The resistance should be within the manufacturer’s specified range. If the resistance is too high or too low, the coil may be faulty.
5. Connect the Secondary Winding: Disconnect the multimeter probes from the primary winding and connect them to the secondary winding. The secondary winding is usually marked with an ‘S’ or ‘SEC’ on the coil.
6. Measure the Secondary Resistance: Check the resistance of the secondary winding. The resistance should also be within the manufacturer’s specified range. If the resistance is too high or too low, the coil may be faulty.
7. Perform the Spark Test: Connect the multimeter probes to the secondary winding and the spark plug socket. Hold the spark plug socket against the engine block and turn on the ignition. If a spark is produced, the coil is likely in good condition. If no spark is produced, the coil may be faulty.
8. Compare with a Spare Coil: If you have a spare coil, compare the resistance and spark test results with the spare coil. If the results are different, the coil is likely faulty.
Conclusion
Checking a motorcycle coil is an essential maintenance task that can help prevent costly repairs and ensure your bike’s performance. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily inspect your motorcycle coil and determine if it is functioning properly. Remember to consult your bike’s manual for specific instructions and specifications regarding your motorcycle’s coil.
