Topic: measuring engine RPM with a multimeter that has tach setting:

[Mooshie]

I have a multimeter that will measure tach (I do not have the OEM tach on the bike any longer).  The manual says to place one lead as a ground (got that one) and the other to negative lead on the coil.  Is that the only place that I can put the red  lead?  Can I use the 1-4 points placement (as if I was setting static timing with a multimeter) or must the lead be attached to the coil?
Once I know where to attach the leads I think I have the rest covered.

[phil71]

You should be able to do it at the points  , be prepared for that to be off by half or double though.. Does it have a 4/6/8 setting?

[seanbarney41]

this makes me curious how the wasted spark will affect this too...

[dave500]

set the meter on two stroke.

[Mooshie]

You should be able to do it at the points  , be prepared for that to be off by half or double though.. Does it have a 4/6/8 setting?

Yes the meter has 4/6/8 choices and I was just going to use the 4 and cut it in half. Would that suffice?  I know it works that way for setting dwell.  But not certain if the same would apply for measuring RPMs

[Deltarider]

It will work. Just try to avoid grounding if the crocodilebeaks are big. Don't be tempted to set the idle too low. I prefer mine to idle @ 1100 - 1200 RPM.

For those of you that prefer, like Mooshie, to use a dwellmeter, here is a tip.
Years ago I have attached two ‘blind’ extra wires to my coils (12V-) both with a female connector at their end. Once you've set your timing correctly, these wires allow quick diagnoses later on. If you are satisfied with the timing, write down the dwell for future reference. Almost all changes in timing originate at the contactbreakers. When the dwell changes, so does the timing. When you suspect the timing is off, before opening the ignition cover you can now simply connect the dwellmeter to either extra lead 1&4 or 2&3 and verify if dwellangle is still the same or has changed. It’s important ofcourse that those connectors are well shielded to avoid ground. That's why I choose mine to be female. Mine are accessible close to the ignition key (old model, under the tank).
I have had these wires attached for years now. What I like is that I can check really quick without even having to remove the ignitioncover.