QuestionI was having electrical trouble with my 1980 Honda CB750K. I removed and fully charged the battery, then I went through the flow chart from electrexusa.com. Everything tested out fine. After that I rode every day for about 2 weeks with no trouble. Suddenly, yesterday, I went out for about a 10 mile ride, and when i got home, it wouldn't start back up. I kick started it (just rolled it down the driveway and dumped the clutch) and it ran fine. Then it wouldn't start to go back home after work. The lights come on fine, but when i hit the start button, i get a half-hearted grrr, and it's done. If I roll it to start, it will run just fine. Thanks in advance...
AnswerStu, take a screwdriver, pliers or something similar and jump across the two big posts on the starter solenoid. If it starts, the solenoid is bad or the starter button circuit may be ailing. If it doesn't start, the starter clutch could be failing (springs/rollers) or the starter motor has some issues.
Usually when there is the buzzing/clicking sound at the solenoid, it is either the solenoid or the battery. You can jump start the starter motor directly with an external battery, to verify that the motor is functioning and that the starter clutch is working.
If the noise is coming from the left side crankshaft area, the starter clutch parts are having problems.
Note: When the starter button on the handlebars is out, the headlights are ON and the starter circuit is disabled.
When the button is pushed IN, the starter circuit is energized and the headlights go OUT. The starter buttons are a known source of problems. You can use a 12v test light or a good voltmeter to check voltages through the circuits. Don't forget that some models have safety circuits on the sidestand and clutch lever to prevent the starter motor from engaging.
For illustrations, go to: http://www.powersportspro.com/partsfish/login.asp
Bill Silver
