1987 Gl1200A cranks well no spark to any cylinder


Information and questions on GL1200 Goldwings (1984-1987)
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Dale87
Posts: 4
Joined: Sun Jun 18, 2023 11:13 am
Location: Troy,Ohio
Motorcycle: 1987 GL1200A

1987 Gl1200A cranks well no spark to any cylinder

Post by Dale87 »



Just a little back story first, maybe this will help. When I bought this bike it would start right up with no choke and had to let it warm up to get any RPMs over idle. As time went on I had to choke it to get it started and had to let it warm up to take it off choke and get RPMs over idle. Then one day went to start it would turn over very well but no start. Checked plugs on all 4 and no spark to any of the four.

This bike has only 19,000 miles and is a clean bike.
I have checked primary spark to both coils SPEC 2.4-3.0 ohms both left and right coil 3.0 ohms. Checked Secondary Spec 20,100-27,900 ohms Left 25.3 ohms right 24.3 ohms.
Pulse generators SPEC 295 ohms 341 ohms and 349 ohms.
Plug caps 4.86, 4.63, 5.16, 5.50 ohms.
What am I missing to find the problem? I have Clymer manual GL1200 1984-1987 and has been very helpful. Trouble shooting electrical issues is not my strong point
This is my first Goldwing and would like any help and direction on how to find and fix this issue.
I have not had it on the road yet, doing brakes and other things making sure it is safe and ready for the road.

Thank you all


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Bike...and Dennis
Posts: 232
Joined: Sat Oct 06, 2018 2:33 pm
Location: Glendale, Arizona
Motorcycle: 1987 GL1200I

Re: 1987 Gl1200A cranks well no spark to any cylinder

Post by Bike...and Dennis »

Are you sure you're getting a ground?
Dale87
Posts: 4
Joined: Sun Jun 18, 2023 11:13 am
Location: Troy,Ohio
Motorcycle: 1987 GL1200A

Re: 1987 Gl1200A cranks well no spark to any cylinder

Post by Dale87 »

What one of the grounds are you talking about?
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Rambozo
Posts: 3091
Joined: Sun Apr 01, 2018 8:36 pm
Location: Disneyland
Motorcycle: 1992 GL1500 Aspencade
Ducati Monster

Re: 1987 Gl1200A cranks well no spark to any cylinder

Post by Rambozo »

Dale87 wrote: Sun Jul 23, 2023 1:32 pm Checked Secondary Spec 20,100-27,900 ohms Left 25.3 ohms right 24.3 ohms.
I'm assuming you meant 25.3k and 24.3k ohms?
Dale87
Posts: 4
Joined: Sun Jun 18, 2023 11:13 am
Location: Troy,Ohio
Motorcycle: 1987 GL1200A

Re: 1987 Gl1200A cranks well no spark to any cylinder

Post by Dale87 »

Yes thank you for pointing that out.
Dale87
Posts: 4
Joined: Sun Jun 18, 2023 11:13 am
Location: Troy,Ohio
Motorcycle: 1987 GL1200A

Re: 1987 Gl1200A cranks well no spark to any cylinder

Post by Dale87 »

Still have not figured out this problem.
Anyone have any ideas?
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Rambozo
Posts: 3091
Joined: Sun Apr 01, 2018 8:36 pm
Location: Disneyland
Motorcycle: 1992 GL1500 Aspencade
Ducati Monster

Re: 1987 Gl1200A cranks well no spark to any cylinder

Post by Rambozo »

Do you have power to the coils? Check voltage both key on and while cranking.
Do you have a wiring diagram? You might want to get the Honda factory service manual.
What kind of test equipment do you have?


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