Timing for an 81' Gs550t

[Demio0892]

Any ideas on how to time the engine ? I have spark, fuel, compression but my engine doesn't start. Im thinking the timing is off. Any help is appreciated. Thanks!

[tom203]

Any ideas on how to time the engine ? I have spark, fuel, compression but my engine doesn't start. Im thinking the timing is off. Any help is appreciated. Thanks!

Doubtful it's a timing issue...unless it's been messed with. Is this a new for you bike??
do you know its maintenance history? The "choke" system needs to work correctly or bike won't want to cold start. Do not apply any throttle when using the "choke" or you defeat its purpose.

[Demio0892]

The ignition points were swapped for an electronic one similar to the dynatek s, but apart from that ive never touched it. How about valve timing ? Because it backfires and spits but it wont start.

[tom203]

The ignition points were swapped for an electronic one similar to the dynatek s, but apart from that ive never touched it. How about valve timing ? Because it backfires and spits but it wont start.

How similar to the dyna ? Brand?? Did it run before this swap ?
check that the spark wires are on correct plugs. As you sit on bike ,the left ignition coil fires #1 and #4 - check carefully as it's easy to mix them up. Don't rely on number tags on coil leads.
To check valve timing, you will have to remove camcover noting the position of the cover bolts- you'll need a new gasket - plan to spend time removing old gasket residue .
I'd suspect ignition or carb issue before I'd blame crank to valve timing. Most of these critters are way behind on their maintenance.

[Big T]

1981 GS models didn't have points
You sure of what model you have, or has it been messed with by previous owners?

[Demio0892]

I did not know they didn't have points, then its the original ignition pickup coils, what do you suggest i do ? I already cleaned and rebuilt the carbs. Dipped them in chem dip and other parts.

[Demio0892]

I thought the problem would be ignition or carbs too, but I rebuilt and cleaned the carbs already. I have new spark plugs and boots and I have strong spark in every cylinder. Hence Im thinking that the problem has something to do with the timing ?

[tom203]

Hopefully when you "rebuilt" the carbs , you cleaned the existing parts and used new o-rings rather than aftermarket rebuild kits. Check that the plug wires are on correct spark plug...if that's ok, then suspect clogged passages in the fuel enrichment circuits "the choke" . This circuit draws a bit of fuel up thru bottom of each fuel bowl and up into the choke plungers where it's mixed with air and sucked into carb throats during cranking. Sometimes this small pickup tube stays clogged after dipping. My bike will not start cold without the extra fuel mixture supplied by the "choke" system.