Either the starter relay or the starter solenoid is bad. To determine which, you need a voltmeter or a test light, something to indicate voltage is present.
Look at the end of the starter from the right side of the bike. There is a plate shaped roughly like a pentagon held on by three small screws. At the top of this plate is a single wire plugged into the starter. Unplug this wire. Connect your voltmeter or a test light. Turn on the ignition switch. If the voltmeter or light shows that you DO have voltage there, the problem is probably the starter relay. If it shows that there is NO voltage there, the problem is in the starter solenoid.
The starter relay is a one inch cube shaped device usually made of black plastic. The location of the relay varies depending on year and model of the bike. Usually they're either under the seat or on the front side of the rear fender down low behind the transmission on that removable plate.
If you think there is something wrong with the starter solenoid, remove the pentagon shaped plate. Behind it you will find a plunger and a spring. The plunger and spring should just come right out if you pull on it. You will see the two large copper contacts on either side of the solenoid housing. There should be nothing shorting the two contacts together. A problem in this area usually cause the starter to NOT work instead of causing it work when you don't want it to.
Good Luck
Steve
329 views
Usually answered in minutes!
×