Can a CDI unit charge only one coil?

[Redekopb]

I have a 1982 gs650 (Suzuki). Only get spark on 1 & 4. All other issues have been eliminated so it appears to be the CDI unit. Is it possible for the cdi to give charge to only one coil?

[Steve]

Yes, it might be possible, but only if your bike had a CDI.

Your bike, does NOT have a "CDI".
It is an INDUCTOR DISCHARGE IGNITION, otherwise known as a standard coil-based ignition.

The box that you are thinking is a "CDI" is just a box of transistors that replace the mechanical points, and is called an "ignitor".

Now, to answer your question properly: yes, it is possible that the ignitor will only trigger one coil to fire, but it does not "charge" the coil. Technically-speaking, it DIScharges the coil when the transistors open the current path.

Before you condemn the ignitor, though, make sure all the other electrical connections are good.

.

[Nessism]

Yup, no CDI on GS bikes.

Steve is showing you some tough love since it's obvious that you haven't investigated very deeply.

There are countless threads in the archives on this topic so don't be afraid to dig around. Basics include: get the factory service manual (free download available) and perform the ignitor checks. Check voltage at your coils. Switch the coils side to side and see if the problem follows the coil, or if the ignitor is at fault.

Good luck.

[Redekopb]

Thanks. In my investigation it seemed like it was being called various different things. The manual does call it the ignitor unit. I did swap leads of the coils resulting in spark on 2 & 3. Signal generator is good. Continuity is good from coils through to ignitor unit. Ignition switch is good by virtue of spark on two cyl. New plugs. Just needed some confirmation regarding ignitor. Hate to spend so much on something if I don't have to.

[koolaid_kid]

If you need an igniter, do not replace it with an OEM unit. Purchase a Dyna S and replace both the igniter and the signal generator.

[82gs650]

Have u ever resolved this issue? I am currently having the same one

[Mattius]

Have u ever resolved this issue? I am currently having the same one

Me too! Any help would be appreciated. Where can I download the service manual? I can't find it online. Thanks

[Steve]

Me too! Any help would be appreciated. Where can I download the service manual? I can't find it online. Thanks

Allow me to show you the library.

http://members.dslextreme.com/users/bikecliff/

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[Mattius]

Allow me to show you the library.

http://members.dslextreme.com/users/bikecliff/

.

Thanks! What about a repair manual?

[tom203]

Thanks! What about a repair manual?

Dive in and wade around there- more info than any manual that I've seen!

[Nessism]

Thanks! What about a repair manual?

Wow! You didn't even bother to check out the link.