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Neutral relay? Couldn't get my light to come on/won't start

Discussion in 'XJ Technical Chat' started by xj650la, Apr 3, 2014.

  1. xj650la

    xj650la Member

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    Hello everyone,
    My 82 xj650j wouldn't start this morning. I couldn't get the neutral light to come on even though I'm sure I was finding neutral. With the key on the headlight wasn't on either but I can't remember if it's got one of the relays that leaves it off until the engine's running or not. The battery is fairly new and the horn beeps loud and clear. I didn't have time to start troubleshooting, but I'm wondering if anyone knows of any quirks or tricks particular to this bike that might lead me to solve the problem without having to do too much work. (I hate work!)
    thanks gents,
    Scott Scheffer
     
    xj650la, Apr 3, 2014
    #1
  2. tskaz

    tskaz Active Member

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    A quick test to see if it is a safety relay, which it most likely is, is to disconnect the relay and try to start it (we don't recommend riding it like this unless it's an emergency to get you home). If it fires, then you have to start trying to figure out the safety circuit that is the culprit. Usually the neutral switch.

    But before doing all that, do the simple thing first and check the fuses. After that would be the safety circuit, then the kill switch, so on and so forth.
     
    tskaz, Apr 3, 2014
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  3. bigfitz52

    bigfitz52 Well-Known Member Premium Member

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    If you hate working on bikes you're riding the wrong one. A thirty year old bike requires a lot of work, either up front or as things continually "fail."
     
    bigfitz52, Apr 3, 2014
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  4. Hamster

    Hamster Member

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    Hey Skaz, sounds like you've seen this before. When it is the neutral switch, is it in need of service, or do you need to replace it typically? I have had the same issue intermittently for about a year and my engine is off the bike at the moment. In my case it only means I have to pull the clutch to work around it.
     
    Hamster, Apr 3, 2014
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  5. tskaz

    tskaz Active Member

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    Typically, it is the neutral switch that sees the most dirt/water/grime since it is the most exposed. It may be just a case of needing to be taken off and cleaned/lubricated (as was my case) or it could need replacing.

    Cleaning is always free, of course. You'll also want to inspect the wiring for frayed/loose wires and you can OHM the switch to check for operation.
     
    tskaz, Apr 3, 2014
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  6. xj650la

    xj650la Member

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    Re: Neutral relay? Couldn't get my light to come on/won't st

    Cool! Thanks for pointing me in the right direction. I'll take a look at the fuses first and if no luck I'll pull that switch clean it or if needed replace it. Doesn't sound too bad. Thanks for the help!
     
    xj650la, Apr 3, 2014
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