Motorcycle Repair: zzr1100 main fuse blows repeatedly., kawasaki zzr1100, spare fuses


Question
Out for a ride on my Kawasaki ZZR1100(1991) when it lost all power and stopped. On checking found main (30amp) fuse blown. Replaced same and it started and went for 200 yards and stopped with same problem. Repeated this until all spare fuses were used up. There was a backfire thru the exhaust almost each time the power was lost.
On checking further the power lead to the starter solenoid was loose so I tightened this but the problem remained.
Today I also found that the positive lead to the battery was a VERY loose connection so tightened that but haven't been game to take it for a test run (as towing fees have cost me heaps).
I need to know if these symptoms, of loose connections, could cause the fuse to blow repeatedly. I am soon to leave for a 1000 mile trip so need to know if this bike is reliable. At the moment with all connections tightened it starts first go and the motor runs faultlessly without stopping for a quarter hour as I just tested it running in the garage.

Answer
Hi Igors,

I believe you've solved the mystery.

Yes, the loose connection can and do cause such symptoms. You're lucky the fuses were the only parts to blow. The electronics on board are not very receptive to power surges.

Check all electrical connections including chasis grounds. Use dielectric grease on all connectors. This will help prevent corrosion and water shorting.

Enjoy your trip. Is it an endurance race? I miss "those" kind of trips. : )

Respectfully,
Mark Shively