Motorcycle Repair: Honda motorcycle wont start, poor conductor, honda motorcycle

Question
I have a 1996 Honda Shadow VLX. The problems started this winter when I wasn't able to ride much. About Feb. 2004 the bike would start right up but the headlight wouldn't come on until after I had rode about two miles. I just thought it was a weak battery from sitting for a couple of weeks. Then I was hurt seriously in an auto accident March 6, 2004 so I wasn't able to try to ride until May 2004. The bike started but no headlight at all. Wasn't able to try to ride again until last week and found that the horn, indicator and brake lights work, but the headlight still wouldn't come on and bike wouldn't even try to start. Assuming the battery was too low I bought a new one. (Easier for me than having it charged) The indicator and brake lights and horn are still the only things working. I rechecked ALL fuses. They are fine. Did a visual inspection of all wires and can't see where there could be a problem. My previous experience has always been that most problems are of a simple nature and I don't have the money to have her towed to the shop for a simple repair. Please tell me exactly which wires or parts I need to assess for replacement so that I might could do it myself before having it towed in. Thank you. Jo

Answer
Hi Jo,

I hope you're healing well. God be with you.

I agree that the problem is simple. Over the years, I've had several headlight complaints. In one case, the headlight bulb's filiment would become detached and then reattached causing the same symptoms. In another case, the buld connector was corroded and made a poor conductor. There are other examples, but I think you'll understand.

Open the headlight assembly and remove the bulb, leaving the connector attached.

Tip: Remember... skin oils cause hot spots on those type bulbs- hot spots cause bulbs to burn out quickly. Handle bulbs in a manner to avoid touching glass, or clean glass after handling and prior to illuminating.

Power on ignition, handle headlight bulb and related wiring in attempt to illuminate bulb. Gently tap bulb's frame, etc..

Use a 12 VDC tester to trace the circuit (to see if voltage is present at the bulb's connector). Visit this website for details on testing and more. Scroll down and click on Electrical Testing.

www.dansmc.com/MC_repaircourse.htm

Give that a try and keep me advised on your progress.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively
mshively1@woh.rr.com
www.fop104.com