Prince George Vintage Motorcycle Club
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: MaximX on May 09, 2019, 05:50:51 AM
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Hi you guys. Last fall my good old MaximX would not start when the engine was hot. So this spring I took the starter off my doner bike thinking it was the problem. Well now it will not start at all even cold (did that every time last year). Yes I started with a charged battery, but found that adding a battery charger made the system come more to life. Then at one point there was a serious power draw of some sort that pulled a lot of current, so I took out the battery just to keep it safe. I have changed out every electrical component from the other bike that ran well when parked. Here is a link to what it is doing/not doing. Cash to anyone who can figure this out.... here is my video link.
https://studio.youtube.com/video/KiniITs7_O0/edit?utm_campaign=upgrade&utm_medium=redirect&utm_source=%2Fmy_videos
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So I guess a little brainstorming wouldn't hurt. If we can ask the easier questions now we might be able to narrow down the probable cause.
Do you have an ammeter on the bike? If so, when you turn on the key is there significant draw?
Another fairly simple one is the condition of the battery leads. Are they all clean and complete? I've had one disintegrate inside the plastic shield so it looks like it is complete but actually separated.
I think there's also a relay in the starter system? Have you tried replacing that? (You mentioned there was a significant replacement of electricals done)
When you consider the kind of draw that you're talking about it should normally blow the fuse if the surge is over the limits (Assuming the value of the fuse is correct for the bike). If it isn't part of the fused circuit then referencing the electrical diagram might point you towards the culprit(s).
Last - sometimes I enter key words on a google search and it's surprising how many other people have had the same issue. like this: https://xjbikes.com/forums/threads/hot-starting-problem-xj550.47894/
Good luck in your hunt.
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Thanks for that Steve. Today a friend came over and did some electrical tests on the battery. Even though it first appeared to be charged according to my trickle charger, it was in fact a dud now. New battery in and it fired up right away. Classic case of not checking the basics first....sorry to bother you taking time to write a good answer to my problem. Was nice going for a ride today. All the best to you all as you ride this summer.