80 maxim xj650 help

hello and good day, i was given an 80 maxim xj650 that my friend had bought and planned to rebuild. He passed 3 weeks ago , i am attempting to make this into a memorial bike. traded my kz440 for a 2nd maxim parts bike.

I did tire swap yesterday, then after completion i installed a new solenoid because the bike was missing it. i then plugged in a new key ignition. when i turned key got my neutral light and horn working. headlight didnt not come on, i closely inspected it and the wires on the bulb arent broken or burnt looking. i then went to start her up, bike in neutral on the middle stand, i heard a crackle like noise coming from what would be your left side if you were sitting on the bike. Now today i went back out to see if i can find a frey or wire touching metal etc and nothing.

Now when i hit start the only thing that happens is the oil light goes when i hit start. Could i have possibly put the solenoid in backwards causing a a starter relay to fry ? any help would be greatly appreciated. really like to get this bike road worthy and ready for paint before summer .

thank you ahead of time

-- Pvt. Assanti , sam

 

Can't help with solenoid question but headlight comes on only after bike is started. Good Luck with memorial rebuild. Nice thought...

skillet

 

well thx for the headlight question , my kawasaki kz440 head light would turn on when i turned the key to the start position.


--pvt Assanti, Sam

 

My 82 Maxim has the headlight come on when the key is turned to on. Try runnnig a jumper from the positive on the battery to the opposite side of the solenoid. When my solenoid went out (while I was at work) that's how I got it started. Also check the neutral switch circuit, these things are notorious for causing problems.

 

That's not normal. The headlight relay is supposed to keep the headlight from lightning until the alternator is producing electricity.

 

Hmmmm... wonder if I should worry? Hasn't caused me any problems. I'll check the relay and connectors to see if there's a problem. What! An electrical problem on a 28 year old motorcycle!!

 

My headlight is only on with the bike running as well.

One of the most common issues with these old bikes is the fuse box. In fact I would be surprised if many on this site have not had to address electrical issues at one point of ownership.

Good luck on the memorial build. Mine is in memory of my Dad

Rob