Set Ignition Points Timing Part 1 - GS550 Build (Part 97)

I set the ignition points timing on my Suzuki GS550 vintage cafe racer motorcycle. Part 1 of a 2 part series, I show how I set the point gap and determine my contact points are worn to the point of needing replacing. I detail my process and decision around locating and purchasing a new set of contact points. The GS550 had Nippondenso and Kokusan ignition parts - I show how to determine the correct type. Process would be the same for GS750, GS850 and GS1000 with contact points ignition.
Book - Creating Mr. Kortan: Building a Custom Vintage Cafe Racer: www.amazon.com/Creating-Mr-Ko...
Urban Monk Website: www.urbanmonktv.com
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[@odfpv591]

In the middle of my first bike build. A 81 gs550t. Thanks for all the great info. Helping me out a lot with this new to me project.

[@UrbanMonkTV]

These are such fun "journeys" and these old bikes are lovely to get to know intimately. Thanks for watching!

[@odfpv591]

@Urban Monk TV thanks for video taping, editing and posting to help guys like me out.

[@jaytodd5809]

Great info helped me alot with my 77 gs750..I do however have the other condenser arrangement..

[@UrbanMonkTV]

Thanks for watching!

[@Thoridin58]

Man, I remember setting point gap using a matchbook on my first few cars (I'm 61) back around '76-'80. I wasn't a smoker just always had matches with me just in case. Being a teenager with no money you did what you could with what was on hand.

[@UrbanMonkTV]

I'm glad I'm not the only one who remembers people doing that. 🙂

[@PutOnYourLid]

Thanks for that mate. I've dealt with points in the past bet refrehed my knolege be watching your Vidio and it was a good idea!

[@UrbanMonkTV]

Thanks for watching!

[@rod-von]

My bike doesn’t have timing marks for cylinders 2-3 but it does on 1-4. It wasn’t grounded off they were just never there. Just my luck

[@UrbanMonkTV]

Thanks for watching. There are so many of these old bikes in salvage yards and people's backyards that purchasing another one used shouldn't be too difficult. It's a non-wearing part so age doesn't matter. I found one on eBay but not suggesting you buy this particular one. www.ebay.com/itm/371054253916?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=Ox-_EaPLRyy&sssrc=2349624&ssuid=4utYrWQfQGO&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY

[@1conu593]

Just a guess like this… why not directly putting the other side of the light tester at the end of the spark plugs (removed from the engine but connected to the coils) I know electricity is fast but timing also need to be on point so at least you check directly where it’s suppose to go :)

[@UrbanMonkTV]

Thanks for watching. Within the coils there is not a direct connection between the power going to plugs and the circuit that triggers the coil to release.

[@GSHEBER]

Hola tenes información de la gs650L 1982? Gracias

[@UrbanMonkTV]

Gracias por ver. No tengo experiencia con ese modelo específicamente, pero puede encontrar información útil aquí... gsarchive.bwringer.com/

[@brandtmagolon454]

Do these values apply to the 750 a an well

[@UrbanMonkTV]

Yes they would. From an ignition perspective the 550 and 750 are identical.

[@brandtmagolon454]

@@UrbanMonkTV thank you I just got my bike two weeks ago it's my first motorcycle. 1979 gs750L

[@ActivityPhoto]

Maybe you did it off camera but shouldn't you have cleaned the points contacts before setting the gap? Guess in as much as you are replacing the points it doesn't make any difference at this point, but in the future I suggest cleaning (filing) the contact surface before setting the gap.

[@bluehazeboy]

Pattern parts are available,but try to stay away from anything made in China,the quality is just rubbish,Suzuki prices are staggeringly expensive,best pattern parts are daiichi, points set part numbers are condensers 187785 and points are 181183 left,& 181184 for the right,they're made in Japan & the quality is top notch

[@UrbanMonkTV]

Thanks! This advice comes a bit late as you'll see in the next episode. I bought some Chinese points and have to modify them to work. It does turn out to be an interesting adventure however. If they fail prematurely I'll buy the Daiichi you recommend. Thanks.

[@bluehazeboy]

Urban Monk TV no problem

[@davidc5362]

Can you point me to where I can order the Daiichi parts in the US for the GS550? Only place I have found so far is Motorcycle Spares Warehouse in Australia. Parts are reasonable, shipping is high and slow.

[@davidc5362]

Oops, shoulda watched second part of points video, where you discussed fact of non availability of the Daiichi parts. Thanks for the update.