Topic: When do points go bad?

[Derby City]

My question is just as the subject reads...how do you know when it's time to buy new points.  Unfortunately I don't know how many miles are on the points on the bike right now.

[Johnny5]

When you cant adjust the points to get the timing right will tell you that it's time for new points. Also, pitting in the points is another indication.

They arent expensive and relatively easy to replace. If you think yours arent any good, best to just install new ones.

[Derby City]

Yep, I think I'm having that timing issue right now...No room left to turn the circular plate the points are mounted to.  I think I saw some pitting on the points as well.  Guess I'll add new points to the parts list.  Thanks for the post.

[Johnny5]

After you put new points in, you'll be amazed at how much easier timing the bike will be.

[mystic_1]

This may be a good time to consider picking up one of Hondaman's Transistorized Ignition setups, it reduces the power flowing through the points making them essentially last forever.

mystic_1

[6adan]

I just put one of Hondaman's Ignition setups on a GL1000. I did not touch the points and it starts and runs better than before.

[333]

Any pitting can be filed smooth with a points file.  Another issue is the slider that rubs on the cam.  If this is dry(no lube) it will wear down and require adjustment constantly.