Tri-Spark - Plug Gap

Bonneville Phil

2012-02-29T15:09:00.000-08:00

Phil likes to get around to bike shows like the Bombala Bike Show where his Bonneville won best British this year.

You wouldn't be alone if you were wondering where Bombala is - I'm guessing that would be somewhere near his home in Canberra here in Australia.

Phil adds that it does get ridden regularly and other riders watch with envy when his Tri-Spark powered machine fires up with one half-hearted kick.

We love to hear from our customers so keep those photos and stories coming in!

Spark Plug Fouling Q and A

2011-10-17T03:46:00.000-07:00

Do your Spark plugs look like this?

Q: Richard in Western Australia asks about misfiring , loss of power and a breakdown resulting from sooty fouled spark plugs. What’s causing the plugs to foul?

A: There are many possible answers to this question starting with the fuel. If the carbon on the plug is dull black (as above) it’s likely due to a rich fuel air mixture. Alternatively the problem could be oil burning if the carbon looks glossy. Usually these problems clear up to a degree if the engine is running at higher speeds – try checking your plugs after a high speed run to see the difference.

The fuel we get now is formulated for fuel injected cars with EFI computers which doesn't help things however many people find they can get their engines to run OK with it. If I have a choice between 91, 95 or 98 octane ( Australian fuels) I go for the 95.Possible causes:

Overly rich idle mixture
Oil burning
Spark plugs too cold – incorrect heat range
Excessive use of chokes
Weak ignition or coils
Excessive idling and low speed running

With the fuel we get now we expect a bit more soot on the plugs with slow speed riding. Check the heat range and consider going hotter but also check the plugs at high speed to make sure they are not getting too hot. Minimise warm up and low speed riding and keep the revs up.

New Stocked Line CTEK XS0.8 Battery charger / maintainer

2011-10-10T17:50:00.000-07:00

Now in stock at Tri-Spark the XS0.8 12 volt battery charger from CTEK. This charger maintainer is perfect for charging motorcycle batteries safely overnight or leave it connected during periods of storage to maintain and protect the battery from deep discharge. Rated for outdoor use.

The sophisticated 6 stage fully automatic charging program provides the optimum charge for all battery conditions from deeply discharged up to fully charged. You can leave it connected to safely maintain the battery in top condition - ready to start at a moments notice. Spark free connection and built in overload protection for safety.

The xs0.8 comes complete with clips and a small wiring harness for plug in connection to the bike.
Safety, simplicity and convenience.

When you consider all the benefits - could this be the world's best battery charger?

Click for more info

Tri-Spark Powered Rocket3 wins at Manx Grand Prix 2011

2011-10-10T17:24:00.000-07:00

Riding the 850cc Tri-Spark powered Rocket3 entered by Steve Robins in the Formula Classic event was Mark Parrett who took victory as all other riders in the class had retired. But, don't think for one second that this made it an easy victory for Mark. His victory was hard fought as he had no back brake for much of the race and was also black-flagged in error. He later received a time credit resulting in a final interval timing result of 09:40.

Helping Robins and Mark at the Isle of Man were quite a team of guys including Phil Packham, John Ford, Pat Brown and John French and according to Robins without this team they would not have got the bike to the grid. He said, "You've got no idea how much work is required at an event like this.

"What's more it was all done while suffering from sleep deprivation and stress. These guys delivered beyond the call of duty." Humour appears to have helped them all through the low moments with everyone's high skill levels solving many a problem on the fly.

Robins also said that without the support of their sponsors they would just not have been able to take part. "The products supplied showed how robust these solutions were when tested in the ultimate test of the island. I would highly recommend them to all." Included in the list of suppliers is Tri-Spark who supplied the electrics and ignition.

Mark took the ride on the 850 at late notice winning the respect of everyone as he had never ridden it before and what's more had to contend with a right shift which is not his preference. That didn't stop him from achieving lap 2 speeds of 95MPH and winning the event. "It was astonishing," said Robins, "And to bring the 850 home for a win more so."

"I am in total awe of the riders," Robins said. "It takes a brave and very skilled man to ride these old bangers at the speeds they do on the island roads, total respect."

Finally Robins said, "Those who came over to the island to watch and support us many thanks, you've got no idea how much it all helped."

Jo and Stephen Kelly certainly enjoyed themselves. This comment from Stephen sums up the thrill and fun of participation perfectly, "We went, we saw and we'll be going back!"

If you want to read more of what Steve Robins had to say go to the Triples online forum.

Customer Ride

2011-05-25T17:49:00.000-07:00

Darrell Ricketts in the USA sent is this shot of his tasty 750 Commando.

He Commented ....
"it was extremely simple to install, high quality and rock solid reliable. I love the clean installation and no black box to hide under the tank. I would definitely recommend it and I have. I chose it mostly because I wanted to eliminate the separate box and simplify the wiring."
Sincerely,
Darrel Ricketts

Manx Grand Prix 2011

2011-04-27T16:42:00.000-07:00

We’re planning to attend the Manx GP this year to support Steve Robins entry, Rob North Rocket 3 – 850cc in the Senior Formula Classic race.

Steve Robins has been a Tri-Spark supporter from the beginning first using the systems on his own bikes and later recommending them, and even fitting some, for riders in the Brisbane area. With two spark plugs per cylinder, the racer will be fitted with dual output coils connected to the Tri-Spark triple adjustable control box. This is a sequential system that fires the coils only as needed so there’s no wasted sparks. This system has optimum coil saturation even at high RPM due to the sequential firing method plus an adjustable rev limiter and advance slope adjustment.

Steve commented “With the punishing 4 laps (and about 20 laps of practice) of the 60Km circuit at the Isle of man at extreme revs (between 7000-9000RPM for about 1.5 hours at a time ) every aspect of the motor and chassis has to have extreme attention to detail applied and the very best solutions available in the market to increase the chances of finishing let alone winning . Having used the Tri-Spark Ignition systems, Coils and Regulator/Rectifiers for some years trouble free and very successfully it was a no brainer selecting the ignition and other electronic components - Tri-Spark.
We have a serious line up in the Triple pit crew on hand at the Manx with Charlie Barnes, John French, Pat Brown (from Triples Rule), Gary Woodcock and of course Steve Kelly all assisting . We will be based in Ramsey and no doubt will have a few beers at the Trafalgar pub in the evenings so anyone coming over for the event make sure you look us up.”

Classic Twin for any crank angle

2011-04-27T05:23:00.000-07:00

This Beauty belongs to a local Adelaide rider with a passion for racing. He asked if we could adapt the Classic Twin to fire at the 180 degree firing angle for this engine. We found a way to acheive this with some small changes to the unit and by moving the magnets on the rotor to the positions required for the engine.

We also have customers using this ignition on 76 and 90 degree Triumphs as well. If you have an offset crank engine this may be the ignition you've been looking for. Please contact us for further information. Note: this feature is only available on the latest version units.

Magneto Replacement Kit

2011-04-27T05:12:00.000-07:00

There was a great deal of interest in our new Magneto Replacement kit that we launched at the All British Rally. This kit includes an alloy housing for bolting the classic twin system onto the engine where a three bolt flange mount magneto would normally sit.

This is a 12 volt system that also includes a twin lead ignition coil with the electronic ignition.

Introductory pricing $549 Australian for the kit.

View with the cap removed

Ignition Coil Q & A

2011-04-27T02:17:00.000-07:00

Q: Brett in Australia asks “I’m installing one of your Classic Twin ignitions on my 850 Commando and I’d like to use a single coil with twin outputs. It has 4 ohm primary resistance. Do I wire it as per the diagram in the instructions but without the black link wire between the coils?”
A: The minimum coil resistance recommended with the Classic Twin is 3 ohms so your 4 ohm coil would be fine to use. As you said the wiring is the same as in the instructions but you eliminate the link wire shown between the 2 coils when using a single coil.

Q: Alan in California asks “is the voltage regulator is required when fitting our Classic Twin ignition system on a 650 Triumph.”
A: The regulator is a recommended upgrade to the charging system but is not required to get the new ignition system operational.

Q: Peter in the UK asks “I’d like to order a Tri-Spark kit for my Rocket 3. What coils do you recommend to go with it?”
A: We recommend our Tri-Spark 12 volt Power coils with the triple kit. They have the same dimensions as the Lucas coils that came with the Rocket 3 but with higher spec materials we get twice the spark duration over the Lucas coils.

Are all coils pretty much the same – no way!

A long spark duration is desirable for easy starting especially on cold engines where the fuel mixture is the most varied. High spark intensity minimises the chance of misfiring, reduced plug fouling and can make the most of high compression and highly tuned engines.

These coils would also be compatible with the original points ignition in the triples except the T160 which would require 6 volt coils with its original points setup utilising a ballast resistor.

Click here for further information about our coils.

Q: Stuart asks “I see on your web site you recommend 6 volt coils with your twin ignition (Classic Twin) but my bike has a 12 volt battery. Why is this?”
A: First up, the Classic Twin is a 12 volt ignition system designed to work with a 12 volt electrical system. The reason for the 6 volt coils is they are wired together in a series circuit and as such they present a 12 volt load to the ignition module. It’s simply 6 + 6 = 12. In series circuit the 2 loads add together to equal 12 volts. This is commonly done with other similar ignition systems.
If 12 volt coils were used instead, they would make a 24 volt load and would be under powered by the 12 volt electrical system resulting in a weak spark.

Coils Compared 4 volt 6 volt 12 volt
Lucas ( 17M4) 4 volt 1.0 Ohms primary resistance
Lucas (17M6) 6 volt 1.8 Ohms primary resistance
Lucas (17M12) 12 volt 3.6 Ohm primary resistance

Tri-Spark 4 volt 1.0 Ohms primary resistance
Tri-Spark 6 volt 1.9 Ohms primary resistance
Tri-Spark 12 volt 3.5 Ohm primary resistance

All British Rally Draw Prizes

2011-04-27T02:09:00.000-07:00

We pulled the winners names out at 4pm on the Saturday of the All British Rally with the help of Richard from Montimedia (left in photo). Montimedia look after our web hosting and have been a great help with setting up our web site and ecommerce. We highly recommend Montimedia for any of your IT needs.

The winners were:

First prize a $200 Tri-Spark voucher – Tony Pocock

Second prize a $150 Union Jack voucher – Julie-Ann Brennan

Third prize a set of Tri-Spark coils – Stephen Edwards

Fourth prize a Tri-Spark voltage regulator – G. Hodgson

Congratulations to you all and thank you to all those who entered.

Customer Report

2011-04-27T01:47:00.000-07:00

Great to get feedback from Phil Hollonds. He said, “ Good tips Stephen keep up the good work on the newsletter.

I ordered and received the Tri-Spark ignition and coils for my 850 Commando. What a huge difference it makes especially when I’m not getting any younger; kicks over first time, every time.

No more mucking around with points and timing, which is all great when you’re younger and new at it all but not now, I just want to enjoy it thanks.”

Glad to hear from you Phil and that we’ve helped make your riding more enjoyable.

Triple Racing in Germany

2011-01-18T19:38:00.000-08:00

This tidy Rob North T150 racer belongs to one of our German customers. He asked if we could make him a system with a unique advance curve based on his dyno tuning results for the dual plugged engine.

We said yes and not long after we sent it out the response came back that the engine starts and runs like never before.

Your Questions about Battery Charging Answered

2011-01-18T19:08:00.000-08:00

Q: Steve in Chicago asks “if I use your regulator (VR-0001) can I do away with my battery”
A: We don't recommend using this part without a battery. The battery is required on road bikes to ensure the lights and horn are functional even if the engine cuts out. This is especially important at night. You can find out what is allowed in your area from the local road authorities. The VR-0001 is primarily designed to improve the reliability and accuracy of the battery charging by replacing the old Lucas Plate rectifier and Zener diode. Click to read more

Q: Alan in California asks if the voltage regulator is required when fitting our Classic Twin ignition system on a 650 Triumph.
A: The regulator is a recommended upgrade to the charging system but is not required to get the new ignition system operational.

Q: From Mike in the UK who has an off road bike that he wants to run without a battery.
A: We recommend our three phase high output alternator kit for this application since the regulator (VR-0003) has the capacitor needed for batteryless operation built it. The three phase alternator has plenty of low RPM output which makes for reliable starting and idling. Our three phase regulator is also available as a separate part. Click here to order

Q: After I ride the bike the battery seems to be low does this mean I have something wrong in the charging system?
A: This question comes up often and I always recommend checking the battery first before looking for other things. If the battery is nearly new check it anyway – it’s still the most likely cause of the trouble. If the battery checks out OK then you should see your local bike electrician to have the charging system checked.

High Output Alternator Kit

2011-01-18T18:51:00.000-08:00

Great news for riders of older model Triumphs, BSAs or Nortons is the release of our new High Output Alternator Kits.

These kits are terrific and really do improve the charging systems on the old bikes dramatically. As always Steve has installed this kit on one of his bikes and says, “I put one on my T160 and noticed an improvement immediately.”

With the kit installed you can run both electronic ignition and a Halogen headlamp without worrying about battery charging. It includes a Lucas 3 phase alternator, 14 Amps output power and a Tri-Spark voltage regulator. It’s so easy to install Steve says he can confidently guarantee the fit! Just make sure you get the correct gap all the way around when you install the stator.

“The headlamp on my T160 stays bright even when the engine is idling which shows visually the excellent low RPM output of the 3 phase alternator,” Steve explains.

To order these kits click here

All British Rally 2011

2011-01-18T15:54:00.000-08:00

Three years ago in 2008 we launched the 'Classic Twin' ignition system at the all British Rally in Campbells Creek Victoria.

This year we're back again at the new rally location in Newstead with more new products and promotions. We really enjoy this rally and love seeing our customers and their bikes. It's in it's 35rd year this time running from Friday the 8th of April to Sunday the 10th at the Newstead Racecourse in Newstead the event is sure to be a hit with motorcycling enthusiasts and visitors alike.

Now two weeks before the traditional Anzac day and Easter weekend and with expanded facilities, great local catering, extended pub hours and such a great site the organisers expect more than 1000 British bike enthusiasts.

Tri-Spark will be featuring 2 new products - Our High Output Alternator kit and a much asked for Magneto Replacement Kit. The latter may not be in full release mode but we will be displaying a prototype if not actual parts, and will definitely be taking orders.

Only British iron and tents are allowed on the main site but there is plenty of mixed camping around the track and the organisers confirm there will be the usual feast of exotica, entertainment, trophies and a great atmosphere.

Soaking up the unique "British only" atmosphere, catching up with old friends and making some new ones while viewing the huge range of veteran, vintage, classic and modern bikes will be fantastic as will seeing the latest industry and trade offerings.

Location Newstead Racecourse Newstead Victoria

Contact Michael Poynter 0427 315 212

Velocette Vogue

2010-05-26T18:21:00.000-07:00

Another satisfied customer has sent us some shots of his bike. This time Robbie, who has a pair of Nortons both running Tri-Spark ignitions, has sent in this picture of his 1965 Velocette Vogue. While it may not be able to match the performance of the Nortons, this somewhat obscure, yet stunning little gem must be a blast on a sunny afternoon.

Triples Down Under

2010-05-19T19:04:00.000-07:00

The Triples Down Under rally was held in Canberra back in March and what a great event is was, 27 '68-'76 BSA and Triumph triples showed up for some trouble free scenic riding around the capital.

Read about the rides on the TDU site (including a brief mention of Steve's spill, he's recovering nicely thanks) and be sure to check out the numerous photos.

Greg Carmody won the Tri-Spark sponsored T160 Cup, with his tidy white example.

We are proud to have been involved in this years event and look forward to next years installment on the Gold Coast. See you there!

Falcon Motorcycles Kestral

2010-05-17T18:13:00.000-07:00

I would suspect that most people interested in modified Triumphs of the chopped of bobbed variety would have come across Falcon Motorcycles in their internet trawling. They came to prominence with the release of their pre-unit based Bullet and now they have backed it up with the Kestral.

To call the Kestral a modified Triumph doesn't do justice to the creativity and engineering prowess displayed in this bike. Nearly every part is built from scratch, the only remaining Triumph components are to be found in the headstock and around the engine and gearbox, but even there the barrels are built in-house.

See some construction and detail shots of this work of art here.

Classic Stable

2010-05-09T18:44:00.000-07:00

While it isn't always the case, it's interesting to note how often the owner of one classic bike turns out to be the owner of multiple classic bikes. One such lucky guy is Mark, he sent us some photos of his bikes, including the Trident complete with ray guns, and Commando shown (and a Bonnie of which the file was broken)

Great bikes Mark, hope you're enjoying them.

Transformed Trident

2009-11-05T17:25:00.001-08:00

"Dear Steve,

Congratulations on your excellent product and service.
I've fitted the Tri-Spark to my T150 and its transformed it from an erratic, spitting, pig rooter into a reliably disciplined tar scorcher.
Here's a pic of the beast before i fitted the new ignition and leads.I can get a new pic with ignition fitted if you like (only difference is plug leads are now black and I've had to put the low bars on to compensate for the extra speed and acceleration).

Many many many thanks.
Yours Bill"

Great description Bill. Thanks for the shot, hang on to those low bars!

Carb Tuning

2009-11-05T17:02:00.000-08:00

Every now and then we get a query that is well worth relaying to other readers and customers, this one from John Blozies is one such question:

"Stephen,

The new Tri-Spark ignition you sent is great. I've related my experience to other Norton fans via the INAO website/"chat room".
Now, however, I have one question for you:
In tuning/setting the carburettors of these venerable twins equipped with dual carburettors, it is customary to fire one cylinder at a time and get the best carb setting, then go to the other side and do the same. When pulling a sparking plug wire off so's to run just on one side, the Boyer rumor was to ground out the spark otherwise it would harm the Boyer.
I'm using a Dyna dual lead coil with your Tri-Spark. Will it do any harm to temporarily pull one sparking plug wire while adjusting the running side carburettor?
Thanks again for a fine product. I'll forward a note sent to fellow Nortoneers here in the States.

Thank you,
John Bloszies
Seale, Alabama"

Below is the response we would like to share with you all, along with a shot of John's Commando. Remember, it's always best to ask if in any doubt!

"Hello John,
This is good question and one I would like to include on our website.
With your permission and a perhaps a picture of your bike?

If you must remove one plug lead always have this grounded to a spark plug on the cylinder head. Unplugging the spark plug lead with the engine running will stress any ignition system including points. I've seen arcing across the top of the coil in some case and this can really stress electronic ignition.

Hope that helps,
Steve"

Street Tracker

2009-10-25T20:48:00.000-07:00

A friend of Tri-Spark sent us this image of a very neat Bonnie based street tracker with this editorial: "Magneto ignition or useful footrest? Nice ignition unless you fall off"

Melt Down

2009-10-25T20:36:00.000-07:00

Here's a good story to illustrate the need to ensure you know the implications of any work you are performing when dealing with motorcycle electrics (though the same can be said for any topic). These photos were sent in by a mechanic working on a customer's bike that wouldn't start:

"The bike came back to me with electrical issues. It would appear that the owner left the ignition on over night and then proceeded to charge the battery backwards with a massive boost charger. The regulator was melted as well as the stator (all the insulation was in the bottom of the timing cover) None of this has to do with the ignition but gives an idea of what went down."

While all of our products are straight-forward to install and supplied with detailed instructions, we always recommend taking all products to a qualified motorcycle electrician.

L.P. Williams

2009-10-25T19:40:00.000-07:00

L.P. Williams have been supplying the classic Triumph market with quality parts of their own manufacture and from trusted suppliers for over 30 years now. Among their catalogue you will find a selection of Tri-Spark components, so if you are in the UK (or elsewhere) make sure you check out their extensive inventory if you are searching for that hard-to-find part.

Colorado Norton Works

2009-10-25T18:40:00.000-07:00

Colorado Norton Works create some of the most spectacular Norton Commandos we've come across. Their concept it to take one of the most revered classic British motorcycles and improve it with the materials and technology of today, while retaining all the personality that made it a classic. Each bike they build is unique, and built with input from the owner to ensure they receive exactly the bike they desire.

We are thrilled to be associated with CNW in their capacity as the exclusive agent of Classic Twin kits for Nortons within the USA.
Whether you are looking to go through a full rebuild or just a after a specialist part, be sure to check out their website.

Customer Ride: Michigan Norton Owners Charity bike

2009-10-13T18:41:00.000-07:00

The Michigan Norton Owners Club really did the hard yards to put this '74 Commando 850 into it's current show-worthy state, just check out the as-found photo at the bottom to get a sense of the work involved. All the labour, and most of the parts were donated (we are proud to have contributed with a Classic Twin kit) as the bike is being auctioned off, and the proceeds going to the Fowler Center which provides recreation and education programs for individuals with special needs.

For more information and images check out the thread on the Norton Commando Forum

Angry Monkey Bobber

2009-10-13T18:29:00.000-07:00

Not all Triumphs being built are restored to the way the factory rolled them out the door, this video sent in by a friend of Tri-Spark shows a great example of a recently built '56 Triumph TR6 based bobber. We've no idea if any of our products are in the mix, but with a scoot this nice we simply don't care.
Be sure to turn the volume up when watching it!

Customer Ride: '74 Norton Cammando Roadster

2009-10-13T18:06:00.000-07:00

"I have just purchased a '74 Norton Commando Roadster from the original owner. The Tri-spark looks like a "no-brainer" but I am wondering about your other products. I am looking at having a "Rider" and possibly local show bike. What do you recommend as far as a complete upgrade with your products?
Thanks,
Scott Roney Temecula, CA"

Another great looking Commando sent in, this time from sunny California.
We recommended Scott look into our upgraded coils, leads and regulator, a combination sure to give improved performance and reliability.

Customer Ride: Laverda RGS

2009-10-13T17:48:00.000-07:00

This is one of the more uncommon bikes we cater for, the Laverda RGS. Although we build these in lesser quantities than the Classic Twin and Triumph Triple kits, they are in stock and ready to send. Please feel free to enquire about a kit to fit your bike, you may be surprised to find we do carry a kit to suit, or if not, we might be looking into it right now.

Mount and rotor.

Many thanks to Stephen for sending us the photos of the completed installation.

Customer Ride: Royal Enfield SII Interceptor

2009-10-13T17:26:00.000-07:00

"Hi Steve,
I have purchased one of your Classic Twin systems in the UK and that really seems to work well. Fitting and timing was simplicity itself. I have only covered about an 100 miles so far and there have been no issues to date.
I've passed on the word along the Enfield grapevine so perhaps there may be some interest from other parties. Here are a couple of pictures just to get a flavour. I hope this is of some use and that perhaps some trade is generated.
All the best.
Dave Geary"

So glad you found it all straight forward, thanks for spreading the good word.

Customer Ride: '68 Norton Cammando

2009-10-13T17:11:00.000-07:00

"I send you the photos of my Commando, and also a photo of my others bikes (for the fun). Cheers, Patrick"

Very tidy Commando Patrick, along with the rest of your collection, thanks for the photos.

A note on these early Nortons: The 1968 Commando has the ignition mounted on the magneto position leftover from the Norton Atlas and hence has different mountings, and requires a kit set-up for clockwise rotation. Later Nortons have the points mounting on the outside of the timing cover. Please let us know if you have this model when ordering.

Customer Ride: Norton Cammando Roadster Combat

2009-10-13T17:01:00.000-07:00

"Well guys the project is almost done now, I still have some painting of the logos to do and a few other things but a year and a half of fun is about to end. I want to thank all of the people that have helped me with parts, advice, and all the other little things that go into bringing one of these old girls back to life. I hope to have better pictures to post at some point. She is a 1972 Norton Commando Roadster in Combat trim, They only made the Combat 1 year as they just could not take the high compression and radical cam put in them. She will live a much more mellow life now with me on the bars. Thanks again, Chuck."

Thanks Chuck, it's looking great in the Combat trim, some really nice touches in there!

Trident Cold Start

2009-06-03T18:26:00.000-07:00

This video was posted on Youtube by another satisfied customer is a great demonstration of the improvements to the ease of cold starting with the installation of the Tri-Spark Ignition for triples.