1974 jdx8 no spark either side.

[JDT]

It may well be something simple.

Check/test plug wires, grounds, sparkplugs and the ground conection on the CDI box.

[SpitfireKing]

Also if you got a new cdi make sure you read the topic on switching the wires for the coils...I may be wrong, but I know you HAVE TO on the Liquifire to get them to work...but I had lots of spark, just wouldn't start.

SpitfireKing,
I dont know where that came from but you do not have to switch any wires around. I have worked on a few Cyclones and Liquifires with the Prestolite Ignition. The color codes are all the same and the red primary wire goes to the PTO coil and the white primary wire goes to the mag side coil.

http://www.jdsleds.com/community/viewto ... f=5&t=9372

better have a read bud........

[Matt]

Sptifireking - he stated that he got the Stator from Hewtech - if he got the CDI from Hewtech as well, then the wiring colors aren't the issue. That only applies to the aftermarket Parts-unlimited type replacements.

Hauberg - did you end up getting the CDI from Hewtech? If so, after you've checked the basics like unplugging the wiring harness to eliminate any problems there, call Hewtech, they'll give you all the support you need for their products.

[HoosierDeereMan]

Since you have replaced the stator, CDI box, and coils (with new or known good ones) and have isolated the kill switch and key switch. That leaves only two other options to me. You may have a bad trigger ring. I've never heard of one going bad but there is always a first time. Also grounds. There are grounds on each coil and the there is a ground strap that runs from the CDI box mounting bolt to the heat shield. There is also a ground at the engine plug on the fan housing. I'm pretty sure this one is for the kill switch. Make sure each is clean and tight. I just love these electrical issues! GRRRRRRRRR!

Troy

[SpitfireKing]

Sptifireking - he stated that he got the Stator from Hewtech - if he got the CDI from Hewtech as well, then the wiring colors aren't the issue. That only applies to the aftermarket Parts-unlimited type replacements.

Hauberg - did you end up getting the CDI from Hewtech? If so, after you've checked the basics like unplugging the wiring harness to eliminate any problems there, call Hewtech, they'll give you all the support you need for their products.

He never said where he got it, so I threw out a troubleshoot........I re-read his posts, he just said he got one...never any mention of Hewtech for the cdi

[harleysportster]

Also if you got a new cdi make sure you read the topic on switching the wires for the coils...I may be wrong, but I know you HAVE TO on the Liquifire to get them to work...but I had lots of spark, just wouldn't start.

SpitfireKing,
I dont know where that came from but you do not have to switch any wires around. I have worked on a few Cyclones and Liquifires with the Prestolite Ignition. The color codes are all the same and the red primary wire goes to the PTO coil and the white primary wire goes to the mag side coil.

http://www.jdsleds.com/community/viewto ... f=5&t=9372

better have a read bud........

I rememeber it now but as I stated, all JD color codes are the same. You never know what you get with an aftermarket CDI. The only aftermarket I will continue to buy is the FirePlug from Hewtec. His wires are colored differently but he provides a wiring diagram.

[harleysportster]

Hey guys, I have some issues again with my x8. So far I replaced the stator, cdi box & the coils and still no spark, any buddy have any ideas? Am thinking now its is prob, something simple , but I don't know where to go from here. Any input would be greatly apprenticed.

If you have access to an old style anolog meter, set the range for 40 to 70 volts AC, unplug the connectors of the CDI and hook up the test leads to the yellow wire from the stator and a good ground. Pull the engine over by the recoil and I believe the you should get a reading of 40 to 70 VAC. This will rule out the low speed windings and the timing ring.

[SpitfireKing]

That's sad that we have go go back to the old school meters to check things like this and the condensor's...I know my digital won't read a thing on a condensor...get the anolog out and she works just fine... good to know on the ring harley...never knew hwo to check that!

[harleysportster]

SpitfireKing,
I don't know whether you had seen this link to diagnose the Prestolite system.
http://www.jdsleds.com/community/viewto ... ?f=5&t=289

[SpitfireKing]

yep, I used that to test the stator on my 77 LF...it was good so I had to replace the cdi...I had a Presto one that came on another motor and installed it....but it just kept backfiring until I read the thread on switching the coil wires....she came to life 1st pull.....until I put the coil cover back on and cut one of the wires ....still need to fix it...

[hauberg41]

I had the wiring harness unplugged, the kill switch was seized when I got it so I unplugged it, Do you think that could be a problem? the kill switch is not making a circuit. And as far as the stator plate, it could be out of time but Iam not sure how to time the engine , I don't know which cylinder is supposed to fire 1st . I bought the factory stator & cdi for that sled, from a dealer here in Alberta the wires were exactly the same as original,

[SpitfireKing]

you don't need the kill switch in the sytem to make it run....if those two wires touch then it kills it...so unplugged is fine.

If you look on your old plate you should see a mark that supposed to line up with another mark in the case....or at least most of the motors I've done have had them....but not sure on a CCW????
There should be some FAQ's on the timing, so have a peek in that forum....if I had my book in front of me I would tell you but it's in the shop 200 yrds away and it's cold and I'm a wimp...

http://vintagesnow.com/John_Deere_files/sm2100.pdf this should have everything you need....everyone should support that site as well...SUPER great info on there

I can't recall...are the coils new? Did the wires to them get hurt in anyway? Are the boots good? SPrak plugs good? I've had brand new out of the box plugs do nothing..so it can happen..

[hauberg41]

finally got spark to my 75 x8 it was the stator plate. So now I got new coils ,new stator & plate ,and a new cdi box, and a lot of spark but still will not fire. What am I missing ? the book said there is supposed to be a tether on that model but regardless I got spark so it should fire right.There is new fuel new fuel lines. 135 psi in both cylinders. Could the timing be out that far where it wouldn't even fire? any feed back would be greatly appreciated

[jdrob]

Good Lord man you must have patience like a cat ?? If that was me , that darn thing would have been in a couple large boxes Sounds like 1 large Migraine !! For your sake I hope you get it figured out .. Oh by the way, if your getting good spark, pour a little gas in each cylinder and you should hear it run !

[Matt]

After you try to start it, if you take the plugs out, are they wet?