| Author | Message | ||
     Pcmodeler  |
Went to start up the bike today. It's been about 3 weeks since the last time it was started and about 40-50 degrees in the garage. Tried turning it over and it started making a weird clicking noise. Thinking it's the starter. It sounds almost like when you attached a playing card with a paper clip to spokes of your bike. This isn't the same type of clicking that you would get from a poor battery connection. This sounds much worse. The only work that has been done to the bike since the last time it was started is that I replaced the magnesium speedo/fairing mount on the front of the bike, so I had to remove all of those items. I don't think it's a grounding issue as I am getting electrical to everything. I really think it's something mechanical and nothing has been done mechanically since the last time. Anyone have any ideas. | ||
| Dasbuell  |
I know exactly what it is... (assuming it is the same noises mine made.) I found that if the bike sat unused for about 3 weeks, the drain from the electronic systems would run the battery down so far it would not power the fuel pump or do more that chatter the starter trying to kick it out to crank it over. There is a voltage threshold for fuel pump operation and starter operation. MY OPINION... if an XB is gonna set unused for two weeks or more, use a battery tender! If my XB set for more than a week without being ridden, I put the battery tender on it. My FI BMW is the same way... there is always a drain on the battery even when parked. Now on my Blast... it can set for months with no problems, but it has a carb, and simple electrical stuff! Charge the battery... go buy a battery tender (Message edited by dasbuell on January 22, 2005) | ||
| Pcmodeler |
Damn. It's a brand new battery. Think I should be able to disconnect it and recharge it? | ||
| U4euh  |
Low Battery!! Had the same problem after my Transplant. Battery eventually keeled over from being charged, drained, charged, drained, get the point? If you're not going to start it for a couple of weeks, get a battery tender. Otherwise start it at least once a week. Two things to remember if you take this route: 1) With the temperatures dropping, when the oil starts to get warm moisture will form in the block. So it has to run long enough to let the evaporation get out through the vent hoses. 2) You can't let the bike sit at idle to long, and you can't blip the throttle. This will most likely foul out your plugs. (kind of a catch 22 huh The best thing(I found that works) is to start it and every few minutes run it up to about 2-2500 rpm's, or take it for a ride into town. Even better and easier- get the charger! Just my thoughts on the subject, as I had to change battery and plugs becuase of my own lack of knowledge. That is why I am here, to learn about these wonderful bikes. | ||
| Pcmodeler |
Thanks guys. Any recommendations on the Battery Tender? I see quite a variety out there for sizes, etc. | ||
| Deuceman  |
I have the regular battery tender (not the jr.), and I leave it on my Norton for months at a time. With that one, it monitors the level of the battery and only charges when it needs it. I'm not sure if all of them do that or not. I think i spent maybe $35 dollars for it. It works great. | ||
| Coturi |
I have the same problem, and I just got a battery tender plus. The thing is awesome and it was $45. Love the fact that you can use the permanent cables so you don't have to take off the seat every time you need to charge. | ||
| Newxb9er  |
Same one I have. It was installed on the bike when I purchased it. I thought it was a factory option!! Lucky me. My gift for buying a bike! | ||
| Cataract2 |
Might have to get one of those. Even though I live in Florida it would be a big help. |
