[Foreman_450]

I've got a 99 Honda Foreman 450 that won't run because of no/weak spark. I've got the front fender off just for access. With the spark plug grounded to the engine, I have seen 2 weak arcs from the plug, in the total of cranking on it for a couple minutes. I had a spare cdi and plug and neither have changed anything, I'm not good with this kind of stuff, I had several offers for $600 on it but I wanted to see if I could fix it. Can anyone point me in the right direction here?

 

[retro]

You'll have to learn whether it needs a CDI, a pulse gen, a stator, a battery, a kill switch, ignition switch, or a neutral light, etc.

Is this an ES bike? Are there any aftermarket parts on it? Have you cleaned the grounds and all of the electrical plug connectors yet?

You'll learn about all of the above by following the diagnostic procedures for each in an orderly manner. You can get a copy of the service manual HERE. Read each relevant chapter before beginning work and print them out so you can follow along as you work through each step.

You'll also need a fresh battery in your multimeter, a fully charged battery in good condition installed in the bike and lots of time to spend on it. Ask questions if you have them and let us know how its going if ya can.

 

[Foreman_450]

Bone stock, foot shift, no I have not. You said neutral light? It does not illuminate when I turn on the key, I can drop it into reverse and that light comes on. And the red engine light will come on and off and flicker randomly. Does any of this mean anything?

 

[retro]

Right, the trans must be in neutral and the neutral light circuit must be working or you won't have any spark.

 

[shadetree]

retro is correct..no neutral light ?..no spark !!.

 

[Foreman_450]

That's crazy! Well, I guess I will get the manual and see how to diagnose what isn't getting connection.

 

[retro]

That's crazy! Well, I guess I will get the manual and see how to diagnose what isn't getting connection.

Its not crazy, its on every Honda ATV ever produced! It is incorporated into the starting circuit for starting the motor safely without running over your kids/pets/wife/trees/garage/oncoming traffic etc. A few select models include an override feature, but all ATVs have a neutral light circuit connected to the CDI/ECM, which kills the ignition if the circuit is open.

 

[Goober]

If you don’t know much about troubleshooting and can afford it, you should consider taking it to a shop. It’s probably worth more than $600.
Sounds like you have a loose connector on you oil thermo and neutral switches. With your feet on the pegs the cover should be inboard of your right heel. Just look to see if the cover is missing and wires exposed

 

[shadetree]

That's crazy! Well, I guess I will get the manual and see how to diagnose what isn't getting connection.

neutral wire or switch is not making a good connection would be my guess, and retro is deff telling you right !.