On the 80 it uses the TCI. This ignition uses a magnet in the rotor. As the rotor turns this magnet passes the TCI pick ups. This passing creates a small voltage in the pick ups, this voltage is used as a signal to the TCI box telling TCI the engine position.
It uses this info to tell when to fire the plugs.
Often this magnet gets weak. Thus the poor running with the reg/.rec plugged in, runs well unplugged. With the reg/rec plugged in the rotor gets current through it, this current magnetizes the rotor. This magnetic field covers up the weak magnet so the pick ups don't send a good signal.
Good thing it's easy and cheap to fix. Herrington Ks, the Ks is Kansas right? If so Radio Shack sells a rare earth magnet. A 4 mm/3/16 inch size. I don't have the part number handy or I would give it to you. A two pack is like $3. Just epoxy one of these new magnets right on the magnet in the rotor. I like JB Weld.
This new magnet is much stronger than the old one and can easily trigger the pick ups.
Just glue it on, no clearance issues.
Leo[/QUOTEwas having exact same issues,glad I found this thread,it been a real pain,just welded magnet from radio shack on ,will install tomorrow tomorrow and see how it works ,will keep you updated!thanx for the info!
