TOPIC:

Hey guys, well the riding season is winding down here in SW Ohio, but last weekend we got a break in the blizzards so I got her out...had a nice, trouble-free few hours, but pushed it a bit too long, & got caught in a helluva rain storm...After about 3-5 minutes in, the bike started losing power....she kept going, but "oomph" was way off...assuming the coils are the issue...practically brand new Black dyna's...New dyna wires/caps, new points cover gasket....any suggestions to eliminate this issue? Not a fan of riding in rain anyway, but if I DO get caught out, I have other stuff I would rather worry about than the engine quitting...Thanx for any suggestions!

Does your bike have pods or the stock airbox & filter? Ed

Yes, it does have airbox ...
No pods, here!

air box or pods?
hah you beat me to it ed

I wonder if you have an air leak somewhere and water is getting in? At the exhaust or perhaps around the carburetors. Have you tested for leaks recently when it's not raining?

Water getting inside the airbox? I would remove the filter and check if it's dry in there. I would be devastated to know the airbox is the culprit here (winks at 650ed). Water can get into the airbox if it travels under the seat or get sucked in around the boots.

Could also repeat a test using a garden hose and locate where it starts to bog down.

If you put the hose in the air box, it will have a problem. Check the power leads. Plug wire ends, connections to the coils, gasket even if new. Points? Run it in a dark place and watch for fireworks in any of these places. Bad connection at switch, to coils, etc. Clean all. Water and low voltage don't mix.
Steve

Check for condensation under your points cover also if you haven't already.

Happened every time after it rained or washed the bike. There is a drain hole at the bottom. My Dyna S isn't effected . I still have my point assy. with the bike just in case. I had one fail years ago.
Steve

A short front fender can throw up water under the tank and short out coils and wiring. I used to ride in Ireland where it rains all the time and we would spray ignition protector on the coils HT leads and ignition wires. It a waterproof sealing coat. You can pick up a can at most auto accessory stores. WD 40 will also work.

JR wrote: A short front fender can throw up water under the tank and short out coils and wiring. I used to ride in Ireland where it rains all the time and we would spray ignition protector on the coils HT leads and ignition wires. It a waterproof sealing coat. You can pick up a can at most auto accessory stores. WD 40 will also work.

snap! when I was riding in all weathers I used to use some clear ignition sealant. Also used to keep a plastic bag under the seat to cover the pod filters when parked up outside in the rain.

It is said that 'real' bikers ride all year round. Stuff that, did it when i had to, even got mild frostbite once!

Have you looked for the fireworks yet?

Thanx for the feedback, all! I was inclined to stop by an auto parts store for some wd40 after the deluge hit, but was concerned she wouldn't restart...have a can here at casa del grumpy, will hose her down & take her out (with rain gear this time) this weekend...everything is new, & (as far as I can tell) buttoned up as it should be...sounds like these old girls are somewhat susceptible to moisture...thanx again, all!