85 250SX CDI question

[Big Sal]

Does the factory CDI actually say "Honda" on it? I have a horrible high RPM breakup like it's running lean, bogging and backfiring, pulls good until then....but the spark plug says otherwise, it's dark tan/blackish. I replaced the plug, cut the end off the spark plug wire at the boot to make sure it has good contact, but the spark looks weak to me, kinda thin and orange. I'm starting to suspect an electrical problem rather than fuel. Any thoughts???

[atc500x]

I would start with another coil.....after this maybe the CDI
The CDI would not says Honda on it,250sx is HA6,and 250es HA0,they are interchangeable,the power curve is different
But 1986 CDI will not fit,different connector

[tri again]

Does the factory CDI actually say "Honda" on it? I have a horrible high RPM breakup like it's running lean, bogging and backfiring, pulls good until then....but the spark plug says otherwise, it's dark tan/blackish. I replaced the plug, cut the end off the spark plug wire at the boot to make sure it has good contact, but the spark looks weak to me, kinda thin and orange. I'm starting to suspect an electrical problem rather than fuel. Any thoughts???

Did it every run great?
How long ago and what has changed?
There is some weak (electrical wire) link near the battery box on an sx that flexes with the suspension.

Not sure what that's all about but is a common complaint.
Search key "spark sx" maybe?

Generally, I'm sure you know, is to check all frame grounds and elec connections in general.
Not a fun job but needle nose to tighten some
and di electric grease keeps connections waterproof.
Grounds are all over the wire diagrams but not sure where they all are in reality
ON the machine.
Some get the ground TO kill the engine from the kill switch but also get the ground for the CDI unit TO RUN, from that same area somehow.

I wonder where the spark advance comes from on these?

What happens if you add a little choke when it starts to break up?
Valve clearances are good?

Couple drops of water in the float bowl?
Gas tank vent working properly? aka is it different with the cap loosened?
Fuel petcock screen clean?

so? do these get ac voltage from the stator coils and the ignition coil gets its
trigger pulse to fire from the pulse generator like the 185/200

I'm sure you're heard manuals are free in the 'world class help' section.?

I've also ruined brand new plugs by running them with a bad mix within minutes.
NGK plugs are most tolerant of me..
Sometimes I can clean them a few times with the sandblaster but they can
track down the outside of the electrode and aggravate the daylights out of anyone.

Silly ideas, I know but they're all cheap or free and easy to do.
Make sure you tell us what it is.