650ed wrote: You do not set the gap at the "T" or "F" mark. The gap is not intended to control when the spark plugs fire. The gap controls duration (how long the coil is charged). You set the gap at the highest point on the points cam no matter where that occurs. In other words, turn the crankshaft until the points are open at their widest gap then set the gap to the specification. You set the gap first then you set the timing.
After you set the gap you set the ignition timing (when the spark plugs fire). To do this you rotate the ignition backplate (the plate upon which the points and condenser are mounted) until the points just break continuity when the pointer and "F" mark are aligned. The backplate is held in place by 3 screws. You can use a meter set to ohms to see the exact point at which continuity breaks to determine the correct position of the backplate.
After doing those things you can use a dwell meter to perfectly set the points gap (dwell), and after doing that use a timing light to perfectly set the timing.
If you have the Kawasaki Service Manual I suggest you carefully read through the "Ignition Timing" instructions in the"Adjustment Engine" section. Doing so should clarify what needs to be done. Ed
Oh man! I knew I was forgetting something. It's been a while since I've done this. I knew points gap was set at the widest, I just couldn't remember the timing portion of it. I'll give that a shot tonight.
I've looked through the book 3 or 4 times and found very little information on timing. I'll look again though.
Thanks for your help.
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