Miss fire, Loosing spark, backfire, popping

[Blaze]

I had an issue and found the resolution and thought it might be beneficial to someone else. I've done a search and have not found someone else with a similar post. My bike would, Miss fire, Loose spark, backfire, pop. I thought I was loosing spark occasionally because it would run periodically on all cylinders. Come to find out, after I washed my bike, or ran through a lot of rain, It would happen. What I found was one of the weep holes in the spark plug area was clogged by dirt. Not allowing the water to drain properly. When the spark plug area was full of water the spark was shorted by the water, loosing the spark for that cylinder. Hope this helps someone.

[Patrick]

Thats good for folks to know. Its a good idea to poke around and make sure they are clear every now and again.
There have been some here that said we were kidding about those drain holes.

[old2soon]

After winter and just before "serious" riding season begins or when I change tires after looking at my spark plugs and rechecking the gap I rod those drain holes out. I can see where water buildup around the spark plug(s) would cause a problem. Add the rodding out of those drain holes when yer doing the 10 G lube on the ladies hind side!  You're already on the lift anywho.  And by checking you MIGHT keep critter varmints from turning the drain hole into some kinda home or nest!  RIDE SAFE.

[slider]

I cant seem to locate the drain holes,,,Do they access from underneath the head/?

[gordonv]

Yes. Also the base of the spark plug holes. It's been a while since I've seen mine, and will be doing them over the winter maintenance when I change my plugs to Iridiums.

[Blaze]

I cant seem to locate the drain holes,,,Do they access from underneath the head/?

They come out real close to the header bolts.

[Patrick]

I cant seem to locate the drain holes,,,Do they access from underneath the head/?

Just pour some water in the holes and look where it leaks.