1983 XJ900 31A Neutral Light issue

My neutral light has never worked since I acquired the bike. Today I replaced the bulb/globe (with an LED) as it was blown. Disappointed that this did not fully resolve the issue, I've investigated a bit further.

Currently the only way I can get the neutral light on (and even then, only a flicker) is only under one scenario, key in Ign-On position (obviously), gear lever not in neutral (i.e. in a gear), when I pull clutch in I hear the relay under seat, when I let the clutch out the neutral light flickers on briefly.

Other tests,
Engine starts in neutral with clutch lever out = as expected.
Engine starts in gear with clutch level in = as expected.
Side stand / center stand no impact as neither are wired to anything.

I was going to have a look at the neutral switch, but it looks a bugger to get to, i.e. exhaust removal.

Hoping someone more knowledgeable than me, or experienced same scenario, can shed some light on whether it is a faulty relay, faulty neutral switch, something to do with the clutch lever, or something else entirely.

 

The bulb flickers now because of the LED bulb and the starter cutoff relay coil producing a voltage when current is stopped. It is way too little power to light an incandescent bulb, but will cause a flicker in an LED bulb

So unless you have something bypassed the bike won't start in neutral with a bad neutral switch and clutch lever out

And other signal circuits working such as flashers and horn?

Was it originally equipped with a side stand switch and relay?

 

Replace your neutral switch , Xj4ever has the switch and the tool to replace said switch .

 

You are correct @Rooster53, it was indeed the LED bulb, thanks so much for the accurate solution and quick feedback. Saved my lots of head scratching.