2004 Suzuki LTZ 400 Electrical Problem

[d617]

I have 2004 suzuki ltz 400

It idles fine but as soon as you get on the throttle it chokes out. It is not a fuel/carb problem. i have narrowed it down to electrical problem due to the fact that when I get on throttle it draws more power the quad shuts off. I think it is the magneto or voltage distrubtor. Also it runs fine only when the key is turned so lights are on. If turn key to lights off mode. the quad will die. any suggestions

[Ajmboy]

Maybe that switch is bad?

* Added atv to thread title.

[DirtDemon]

I would guess you have an open circuit somewhere, when you turn the lights on, somehow that curcuit is partially closed allowing the machine to run. I would start at the battery with a multi-meter and start tracing power all the way around to the CDI and coil. Look for loose connections, damaged wires and loosely grounded components. Another thought, witht the machine running, check the output from the regulator/rectifier. If it is too high, it may be shutting the ignition off. Turning the light on may be drawing just enough power away to allow the engine to run.

[Ajmboy]

I would guess you have an open circuit somewhere, when you turn the lights on, somehow that curcuit is partially closed allowing the machine to run. I would start at the battery with a multi-meter and start tracing power all the way around to the CDI and coil. Look for loose connections, damaged wires and loosely grounded components. Another thought, witht the machine running, check the output from the regulator/rectifier. If it is too high, it may be shutting the ignition off. Turning the light on may be drawing just enough power away to allow the engine to run.

Great advice, I would do what DirtDemon said here.