81 550 won't shut off

when i turn off the key,nothing happens,it stays running and no head light at all.

 

Sounds like a worn ignition switch.
Can you pull the key out without moving it to the "off" position?

 

yep

 

Looks like that's the problem.

 

Rebuild it so you can keep your original key. There's a write up on here for it.

http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=3 ... ition.html

 

It just wants you to get back on and ride until it's happy, then it will turn off. :wink:

Seriously, it probably is the ignition switch itself. If not, you've got some relay wiring crossed up somewhere.

 

Hehe, it's like the car from Steven King's book, Christine. It's ALIVE! 'You're not done riding me yet-get back on we must go find another twisty road to devour.'

 

Thanks guys, I'm gonna replace the ignition switch with an aftermarket one.Should have it by Saturday!! I'll post the results!!

 

My part didn't come in today but I removed the old ignition,Much to my surprise the bike will still turn over when I hit the starter button.Bad kill switch maybe?

 

Take a look at one of my old posts and see if this sounds familiar.
If the new ignition does not fix the problem try this.
My reply is the 11th one down.
http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=2 ... =shut.html

 

Plug looks ok,I'm thinking its either a bad relay or the kill switch.....

 

Ok found the problem(s)
One of the wires connected to the cutoff relay was corroded, cleaned it up and it shuts off fine.The old fuse panel was still in it so I went to Canadian Tire and found an EXACT replica of the old one for five bucks .So i installed it and now no more loose fuses!!! And it looks stock still.....