"Start" button missing

So my question is pretty straight forward. I picked up a 1980 XJ650 Maxim last night and I'm really happy to have it. Of course there are a few grimlins that need to be worked out. One of which is that the actual "start" button is missing. The little spring inside is still there, so if you use a small screwdriver it turns over fine. I was wondering if anyone has found a way to replace the button without having to replace the entire switch and housing?

 

Order a replacement button from XJ4Ever? (He offers them separately.)

 

I also have a 1980 XJ650 and just finished taking the internals apart to fix the kill switch - easy to replace the starter button - but suggest taking lots of pictures as you go.

 

Okay great, sounds like I can get just the replacement button. I really didn't want to spend $40+ on the entire setup on eBay. I've heard that taking one apart can be challenging and intimidating. I'm a big fan of taking pictures of this I work on the first time.

 

No, they are not hard to take apart.

REmove the two housing bolts
disconnect the throttle cable at the throttle tube.
disconnect the electrical connections
slide the tube and the housing off of the handle bar.

Now remove the small screws and plates holding the wires in place.
Pull the starter button cage up, carefuly pry the lip up so the box unhooks
replace the button

put it all back together.

Good luck, if you need help, we're here.............

dave fox

 

"Assembly is the reverse of disassembly." I've always loved it when the manual says that.

DEFINITELY take pictures and notes; everything will only fit back together one way.

 

i've got a few pics of the thing opened up, allbeit for a xj600



starter button has the blue /white wire .its underneath the light switch arm


cheers
stu

 

And a Euro-market one at that.

WE don't get the option of turning our headlight off. :? That pod is different on North American bikes; no light switch.