A 'simple' ignition question

[RDDave]

On a stock 350 ignition except for the coil upgrade, what should the running voltage be across the coil terminals when running?

I have 5 to 6 volts. Not running I have just short of battery voltage, but running only 5 or 6. The charging output is good so that's not a problem.

Any input would be appreciated.

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[m in sc]

you using an analog or digital meter? they typically wont run under 10v at battery.  whats the battery voltage at 2000 rpm? iif thats 12.5 or higher with everything on and running its fine. the coil supply wire is fed directly from what battery voltage is. so, if you're reading it at the coil its charging and dischargibg and the in and outrush may be giving weird readings. also, you reading at the + or - side of the coil? + is what matters

[RDDave]

Digital. Running battery voltage is 13v +/- with lights on. I hadn't thought about the 'switching'. Thank you for that insight. I have a relay because of the 1.5v voltage drop when it goes through entire system. I am reading using both coil terminals.

I cannot keep this bike running consistently. Obviously, I am missing something. It will run strong for a bit. And then back to it's old tricks. I haven't as yet found the source of the inconsistency. So that is the reason for these weird questions. I am in test territory that I have never, ever needed to be in before. Usually, I find the problem in straight forward tests. But not this time. But I intend to keep slugging it out. With your help.

Thank you.................AGAIN!

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