KZ 250 single lose power and cuts out

[Ricky318i]

I've been experiencing intermittent cut-outs on my 1981 Kawasaki KZ 250 D1 Single. It would go fine and then suddenly lose all power to the ignition and come to a stop.

I am going to try and trace the problem by going over the whole ignition circuit, but my question for now is: would i be able to replace the ignition coil on my bike with this generic 12V coil?

http://www.dimecitycycles.com/vintage-cafe-racer-caferacer-bobber-brat-chopper-custom-motorcycle-electronic-ignition-parts-universal-12-volt-ignition-coil-24-71512.html


Any other ideas on what would cause this? :-[

 

[Sonreir]

That coil should be fine, yeah.

As for the issue you're having, what is losing power? Is it the whole bike or is the engine just quitting? All indicators and gauges still working?

Trying to narrow down exactly what works and what doesn't will go a long way in helping to diagnose the issue.

 

[Ricky318i]

Yes it is only the motor that dies. It will restart after stopping, switching it off and restarting.

I am going to follow the methods for checking the rectifier/regulator and then the pulse generator. (Remember it is the single cylinder - no points)

Anyone have an idea of what could cause this?

 

[Sonreir]

If it's only the engine, then it's going to be something with the ignition system (assuming you've already ruled out carb problems).

Possibly a loose wire or short in the HT leads. Following the wiring from the ignition system, to the kill switch, and then to the coil and make sure everything is nice and tight and free of corrosion. After ruling out all of those items, I'd try a new coil (with new HT leads). If that doesn't work, it could be time for a new igniter.

 

[Bert Jan]

I've had a similar problem with a Honda XL250. Coil was bad. Made contact when cold, but when riding it warmed up and shorted. After a short stop, the coil cooled and made contact again. until it got warm and i had to pull over again. and again. and again. and again. and again. and again. and again.

 

[bud.]

Sorry, I know this is an old(er) thread, but I'm having the same issues with my 81' Yamaha SR250...

With those universal coils from DCC, does it matter much that the primary is 4-5 ohms? My current coil is 3 ohms, and I'm wondering if those would be okay in my bike.

A 4-5ohm coils would just mean a slightly weaker spark than a 3 ohm, but less drain on the battery/system... right?