1983 185S CDI question

[hawncase]

Hi gang,

Got a 185S with CDI ignition. Not sure what the problem is...but it won't start. I know i've got fuel so I checked spark...not so much...

I tried to traced the system for loose connections and took the cover off the CDI which is located on the shifter side of the head. And here's my question...

The rotor spins freely. Is that supposed to happen? I expected it to be indexed in some way and to stay in one specific location on the spindle. I don't get how, if the rotor can move on the spindle, the spark is going to be timed correctly. Am I missing something?

Thanks.

[MonroeMike]

Check to make sure the pin is in the camshaft.

#16

http://www.xtremeusa.com/fiche_secti...1983&fveh=2792

The spark advancer is grooved on the back and fits over that.

#3

http://www.xtremeusa.com/fiche_secti...1983&fveh=2792

[hawncase]

Thanks for the parts diagrams, man.

What I was calling the rotor I see is listed as the spark advancer in the second diagram you put up. Would you happen to know if the spark advancer should be able to turn on the shaft like I mentioned before?

I was looking at it some more and there seems to be some kind of centrifical system at the spark advancer's base. Does that make the advancer lock in place and rotate to the proper place and time?

I'm confused!

Thanks for trying!

[MonroeMike]

The spark advancer base is not supposed to rotate independently from the camshaft, once it is tightened down.

You should not be able to spin it around it circles. like a pinwheel.

If it does, either the pin is missing, the bolt is loose, or the washer has been squashed concave.

[hawncase]

That's what I thought...seemed wierd.

Last night I was fiddling with it and pulled the roter out. It sort of snapped right out. I got it to go back in by opening the spring loaded deal at the bottom. Don't know if I'm making any sense.

I'd hate to shell out money for a new unit just to find out that's just how they are. Cant really tell from looking and my clymer's guide doesn't say a lot about it.

Still checking her out. thanks for trying to help.