New XJ....Need Help

Ok, here is my story. I recently acquired a 1981 XJ550 free of charge. I have no experience with motorcycles at all. I understand how an internal combustion engine works, and I have some very basic knowledge from messing with my early 80's Honda 3-wheeler. However, I am very excited about getting this bike up and running. My first question is how can I try to get it started to see if it runs? I have a new battery for it, and I went ahead and put in new plugs and changed the oil. I have not messed with the carbs. The electric is an absolute mess, and it appeared that someone had rigged a couple wires coming from the ignition to the battery. What is the easiest way I can just try to start it ? Is there a way without any electric? I apologize for my ignorance, like I said I have no experience with motorcycles but I figured it is never too late to get started!!!! Also, I have been following the forum for awhile it seems like a good group of folks. Thanks so much!!!!

 

You have much, much reading to do. While I have no idea how to link things I'm sure someone will be along shortly with links to the information overload hour, church of clean, real cost of maintenance, etc.

 

Yes, thanks, I figured that. Just looking for a direction to head in.

 

Here you are... the information overload references the other links Chitwood mentioned
http://www.xjbikes.com/forums/threads/the-information-overload-hour.27544/

 

starter fluid you should at least be able to get it to back fire

 

your.voltage goes through the main fuse to the key then back to the fuse box turn on key and see if you have voltage at both sides of the fuses.
the ignition fuse has a red white wire which runs up to the kill run switch then back to the tci coils and solinoid . it goes through the starter safety relay before it gets to the solinoid

when you turn on the key do you hear the starter safety relay(under the tank) and the side stand relay under seat click?

bad side stand switch will prevent the relays from closing also have the clutch safety switch and neutral switch which if not in proper working order will prevent bike from turning over.
how long has the bike been sitting?
Maxim or seca xj550.

most likely your carbs will need to be cleaned to get bike to start

 

take a look at the worlds best wiring diagram for seca xj 550 just a few differances betweem that and maxim

http://lumien.se/stuff/xj550/XJ550ElectricalDiagram.html


put your cursor on the ignition fuse and watch the fun bottom fuse red/white wire

 

Thanks, I will mess with it and see what happens

 

Its a maxim XJ550, sitting for about 4 years. Thanks!