Editor’s
note: If you’re having trouble with that old Suzuki, BSA or BMW, Keith
Fellenstein is your guy. From motorcycle tuning tips to detailed motorcycle
engine repair, he can draw from a wealth of experience to help guide you to
success. Send questions to: Keith’s Garage, Motorcycle Classics, 1503 SW 42nd St., Topeka, KS 66609, or send an e-mail with
“Keith’s Garage” as the subject.
Triumph
ignition
Q: I have a 1966 Triumph TT with an ET ignition
system. I have a five-wire stator and the armature has three holes in the back;
S, M and R. Which one is the best for timing for street use and ease to start?
How do I install the five-wire stator? It seems to me the end connections must
be removed to get the wire through the opening in the tube. I am thinking the
tube would be slipped on, then the ends soldered on. — Andy/via email
A: The first
part of your question is easy; the hole next to the S mark should be used to
pin the rotor to the crankshaft for best timing for everyday use. The other two
are for racing and will make it hard to start while giving better spark at high
rpm. On the wires from the stator, you can remove the bullet connectors, but
I’ve had good luck feeding the wires through one at a time. If the insulation
has stiffened with time, careful use of a heat gun can soften the wires to make
them flexible.
