Motorcycle Repair: 81 YAMAHA XS-400 SPECIAL, yamaha xs 400, minimal tools


Question
hI..bIKE WILL START RIGHT UP AND FOR ABOUT A MIN..THE DASH LIGHTS WILL BEGIN TO FADE AND ENGINE WILL START..THEN THEE ARE NO DASH LIGHTS OR ELECTRICAL POWER AT ALL...LET BIKE SIT FOR SEVERAL HOURS AND LIGHT WILL SLOWLY BEGIN TO COME BACK..THEY WILL BE VERY DULL.SIT FOR A DAY OR 2 AND DASH LIGHTS ARE BACK..START IT AND THEY FADE AWAY AGAIN AND IT DIES..BATTERY IS NEW...THANK SO MUCH!  

Answer
Hi Mike,

It's difficult to accurately diagnose the problem from the narrative provided. A few electrical system checks would reveal the source of the problem.

The problem may be the result of a loose connector, a defective or corroded conductor or connector, a defective charging system component, or other.

Check the battery cable connections for clean, tightly fastened connections. Check other electrical connectors for the same.

Visit Electro Sport's website and follow their "Fault Finding Chart" to troubleshoot the charging system:

www.electrosport.com/electrosport_fault_finding.html

Otherwise, I recommend that you get a copy of the service manual and learn about testing the electrical system and troubleshooting procedures. It's easy to do and requires minimal tools; a multimeter (VOM) and maybe a 12 VDC test light.

You may find manuals at "www.repairmanualclub.com" and/or "www.repairmanuals.com"

I return tech information files by email. There was no email address with your question as requested and explained in my instructions.

If you reply, leave your email addy. I'll return several tech files that may assist you.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively