How do I know when my CDI is bad?
The CDI is like a computer as it controls the engine of your scooter. It instructs the fuel injectors when and for how long they should spray. It also directs the spark plugs on how to perform especially when they have to fire. The CDI goes bad because of different reasons. Some of them go bad because they are old, others experience a wiring short while others go bad because of a faulty charging system.
How is my CDI?
The CDI in your scooter is linked to the ignition. Therefore, if it is in good condition then you will have fewer or no issues with your ignition. It plays the role of storing electrical charge and increasing the spark power on the spark plug.
How can I tell that my CDI is bad?
The CDI is not easy to diagnose because the observable symptoms of a faulty CDI box can lead to different directions. Sometimes, a bad CDI does not cause sparks at all. Again, when a CDI box is about to go bad, it can lead to misfires, issues with starting, rough running or even stall the motor.
These mentioned symptoms can be confusing and one has to be careful before concluding that the problem is with the CDI. When the fuel pump has a problem, spark plugs or coil packs are faulty, you would observe similar symptoms. Therefore, the only way you can tell whether your CDI has a problem is by confirming that everything else is in the right condition. The reason is that there is no particular way of testing the condition of the CDI.
Take care of your CDI
Your scooter will serve you well if you take care of all its parts. Knowing how the CDI works will help you take better care of it by looking out for any symptoms of its damage or when it needs maintenance. The CDI has a brief charging period with a quick rise in voltage. Its short spark time is also limited.
Whenever you overwork it, it will not serve you for long. One advantages of the CDI is that they are not sensitive to shunt resistance. The CDI box, however, does not give enough ignition efficiency because its spark duration is short.
Professional help
Every scooter owner or lover should know that CDI models are either AC or DC. These two types work differently. It is important to have your scooter checked by a professional so that they can tell which type is best for your make.