| Author |
Message |
    
Bluewyatt
| | Posted on Friday, July 30, 2021 - 06:34 pm: | 
|
I'm stuck with trying to figure out what could be the reason why my new (to me) bike won't start up.
I bought a 2002 Buell X1 Lightning recently, ran fine when I got it home and for a few times after, but now only clicks rapidly. I came to this website to try and find a common issue that could give me some insight.
I've replaced some parts that seemed to fix similar issues in other threads.New spark plugs, a new battery, starter and ignition relays. I've taken the starter switch apart and cleaned it.
I can smell gas on the spark plugs, but I'm not getting a spark. The starter and ignition coil both seem to check out when I test with the multimeter. The electrical connections all seem tight and clean.
I'm just about ready to take it to the shop, I'm sure the previous owner did some work to the wiring.
I would appreciate if someone could tell me if I'm missing something. |
_buelligan_
| | Posted on Saturday, July 31, 2021 - 10:25 am: |
|
Check all your grounds again! Especially your engine to frame ground strap, you’re more than likely losing connection there. It sounds like it has enough connection to support a little bit of current that fools your voltmeter into telling you you have a good connection but too corroded or loose to send the full amperage to the starter. The only other culprit would be if the starter is shot and will need to be rebuilt or replaced. If you’re mechanically inclined you could pull the starter apart and check if there is corrosion inside it and clean all the connectors and brushes, put it back together and see if that improves before forking out the dough for a rebuild kit.
(Message edited by _buelligan_ on July 31, 2021) |
Akbuell
| | Posted on Saturday, July 31, 2021 - 12:10 pm: |
|
First, get a factory service manual. The most important tool in the book, IMO.
Measure battery voltage at the terminals, then leave the positive probe on the battery terminal and put the ground on the crankcase. The readings should be identical, or nearly so.
If the engine cranks over strongly, but no spark ....
The ign system grounds through the neutral light switch, the clutch switch, and the sidestand switch. Once you are confident in your battery and its connections, try starting with the bike in neutral, the clutch in, and sidestand up. If it does start, the sidestand switch may be at fault, if it has not been bypassed already.
Is the ign fuse good? Try replacing it anyway.
If chattering still exists, follow buelligan's advice.
Hope this helps. Let us know how it goes. Dave |
|
Troubleshooting (Poor Starting/Running/Handling/Ride Issues) »
X1 Lightning cranks but wont start.