engine runs irratic
 

1998 EZGO Gas 4 stroke twin cyl. stock engine.

engine will run great for a while and then acts like one spark plug fouls but new plugs do not help. However I noticed that with the lights on at night they go from white bright to normal and when they change to white bright the engine looses power and when they go back to normal the engine runs great. Is this a regulator problem and the jump in voltage is screwing with the ignition? Advice needed.

thanks

Re: engine runs irratic
 

Yes that is an issue. If the charging voltage goes to 18 volts the ignitor will overheat and malfunction. If this is the case then you should address the issue before you damage and expensive part. Place a voltmeter across the battery and go for a ride. Does the voltage stay at substantially 14 to 15 volts or does it hit 18 volts?

The most common problem is corroded ground wires so if you have an issue I would remove them and clean the lugs and studs, this free fix may be all you need.

Dave

Re: engine runs irratic
 

will clean the terminals and hook up a volt meter, thanks, will post results

Re: engine runs irratic
 

cleaned everything and checked voltage still the same. It would jump from
14.? to 19+ .. Changed regulator and all is well. Was told that when the voltage jump occdured that it made the generator act like a 1 hp motor drawing power. Thanks for the help.