Revised symptom list for XJ650.

Alright, so I posted a little about this in my introduction.. I've got a 1982 XJ650 Maxim. Engine runs nicely when it decides to start. That's the problem.

- When I hit the starter button, the oil light comes on and it makes a quiet dull clicking noise near (not sure exactly) the alternator. Also, when the battery has a full charge, it starts right up. I'm assuming this means the starter is fine..?

- I can push start it no problem and when I park it, sometimes I can press the start button and snap, it fires up, then the next morning nothing.

- I replaced the spark plugs and it didn't seem to do anything about said problem(they needed to be replaced anyways but I wish it had solved something).

- The tachometer has, just today, decided to stop working.

- I plan to replace the battery, the fuse box and the alternator brushes.

I'm kind of flying by the seat of my pants here and have no previous experience with motorcycle maintenance.

I appreciate any help I can get, and thanks again to the folks who''ve already given me advice. These forums have already been a big help.

 

have you checked to see how tight the nut that holds the starter wire is? you may have a loose connection.

 

I would question the integrity of your battery. I had a similar problem in the past and used a voltage meter to verify the battery integrity.

After giving my battery a full charge I hooked up a voltage meter to the battery to measure the voltage, before and while the bike was running. While not running the voltage should read 12+ volts and will drop when you turn the key on to start the bike. When running the voltage should read around 13.5 to 14.5 volts indicating that the charging system is working properly. In my situation the battery wasn't charging properly.

The short of the story is that I replaced the battery and my problem went away. After reading your message I search the web and found the following link with a video on checking your battery http://www.ehow.com/video_2330193_check ... ttery.html

 

I would also suggest a voltage meter.
Then first check the voltage of battery after the night.
Next, The fuse box GOTTA go!! End of story.
My next place to check is the starter relay, known for issues on these bikes.
If still nothing, check out the starter switch as it could also lead to your symptoms.

 

Also if you are going to check the charging system on your bike you should check it at 2000 rpms or more. That is when the charging system is working to it's full potential. It should read 14.5 volts +/- .3 volts.If it is below that your stator brushes may need to be replaced. Another thing is you should get a factory or aftermarket service manual for your bike. Or both, sometimes one has some information the other doesn't contain. Most dealers will not work on our older bikes and the places that will charge an arm or leg to do the repairs.