Quick Question...

[bud_650excess]

More of a survey, really.
Hello, all. I am a new member but have been a fan of this forum for quite a while.

I recently acquired a rather poorly treated '78 xs650sf2. I have in mind a future post that will be more descriptive of the bike as well as properly introducing myself. As the xs is without ignition components i.e. no points, no points backing plate, for now I'd just like to get a little input.

I'll take this moment to thank you all for technical advice that you didn't even know you have given me over the last few years and to tell you that any thoughts on this subject will be welcomed and appreciated.

The engine has had a Pamco, single pickup ignition that is now quite crispy fried. I have had no luck finding any replacement parts for the Pamco and so have been looking at other options online.

I'm working with a stock a/c generator and kick start only. I intend to spend the off-season rebuilding the bike properly but still have - potentially - 6 to 8 weeks of riding weather this season and would like to get a feel for the bike- assuming, of course that I can get it started. Add to that I am on a shoestring budget. - Who isn't? Lol

So here's my "quick question." Outside of finding a replacement for the software end of the Pamco, what's available at low cost (and where) to have a shot at getting some fire into this old classic and what's the general consensus on Tytronic's ignition?

As I said, any input is appreciated.
Thanks.

 

[JesseeS]

I have no experience with tytronic, but a Boyer ignition will probably be your cheapest and most reliable option. Theres even an entire write up here with some tips and tricks

 

[gggGary]

It's been a while now but early Tytronics were troublesome on the XS650's
While not cheap the usual go to is boyer bransden
It goes under a couple names and isn't cheap but the Vape ignition and charging is tough and ready to play.
If you have TCI parts then a gonzo box is inexpensive.
All the parts for a points ignition can be found used.

 

[GLJ]

Bit the bullet and be done. Go with a Boyer!

 

[nightdancer]

Hey there, welcome to the forum! I'm kinda new here too. I've heard mixed things about tytronic, but boyer seems to be the go-to from what I've read. Maybe check out some used options to save cash?

 

[bud_650excess]

I agree with all of you, frankly. From what I've managed to research online, I was already leaning towards the Boyer kit. I just have a gut feeling like I'm going to have to work out kinks in the charging system as well and it looks like a PMA is the obvious way to go there. Do correct me if I'm wrong, tho.
Does anybody know where a guy could get like a ignition/charging system bundle package or...?

I guess if I find a good deal on the missing pieces of the points ignition I'll probably go that route for what remains of the season. Like I said I really just want to get a grip on how deep I'll have to go to make this bike road worthy.
I think I'm going to have to scrap the homemade rigid frame. It's made of one inch square tubing and has a LOT of welds on it and holes drilled in it. The PO had a good vision, I think just maybe could have used a little more SUPERvision.

No sense coughing up the dough or as gggGary said, "Biting the bullet" for the Boyer and Bransdon ignition and not upgrading to the PMA as well in my opinion,

I'll attach a pic or two so y'all can have a glimpse of what I'm working with.
Thanks for the input and for making me feel welcome.

The '78 xs650 in my trailer shortly after picking it up. Perhaps the most redeeming feature is the fact that the number on what remains of the original frame is a match to the number on the motor.

 

[Its been a long time]

Not only is keeping the stock alternator a good option, fitted with standard bridge rectifier and automotive regulator, it is by far the lowest budget option. I went from no knowledge to fitting new rectifier and regulator with new (home made) sub harnesses for less than £25. Around $40.

If you need a rewind on the rotor add that. But you will have a solid charging system.

All the information is here and there's a long thread in the technical section about the charging system and how to get the best from it.

 

[jetmechmarty]

https://www.lowbrowcustoms.com/pages/search-results-page?q=yamaha xs650

Lowbrow has ignition compatible with the stock alternator.

 

[Its been a long time]

https://www.lowbrowcustoms.com/pages/search-results-page?q=yamaha xs650

Lowbrow has ignition compatible with the stock alternator.

Relabelled Tytronic?

Tytronic -

Lowbrow -

 

[jetmechmarty]

Relabelled Tytronic?

Tytronic -

View attachment 337090


Lowbrow -

View attachment 337091

XS Charge also looks the same. Lowbrow does seem to have a reputation for selling quality products, but that’s all I’ve got.

Here’s another, although more money.
https://www.elektronik-sachse.de/sh...p?categories_id=0&keywords=XS650&inc_subcat=1

 

[Its been a long time]

XS Charge also looks the same. Lowbrow does seem to have a reputation for selling quality products, but that’s all I’ve got.

Here’s another, although more money.
https://www.elektronik-sachse.de/sh...p?categories_id=0&keywords=XS650&inc_subcat=1
View attachment 337092

Sachse definitely looks a quality piece if kit. I think when I was shopping for an electronic ignition kit a few months ago, it was maybe 3x the price of the Boyer Bransden kit. I like the Tri Spark too, but that was around 2x the cost of the BB and the UK reseller wasn't interested in talking to me. So, I went with the BB. The BB kit cost me £183. Around $240, though there would be a 20% reduction on that for export since the VAT would not be charged for export to the US.