Motorcycle Repair: Neutral switch / indicator, clutch lever, safety switch

Question
I just purchased a 1999 Suzuki quadrunner.  It is a 250 utility model.  It has been well maintained and everything seems to be in good working order.  I have a problem with the neutral indicator light.  Once in a while, when you put it in neutral, the light will not come on.  When this occurs, you can not start it from the start button, you have to use the pull rope.  Intermittently, the neutral light will start working again and may not be a problem for some time.  The reverse light works properly every time. A friend of mine stated that there is some sort of switch or spring that works with the neutral indicator light and it probably just needs to be adjusted or cleaned.  Do you think this is the case?  And where is it located?

thanks  

Answer
Hi Bryan,

Most MC's and ATV's have a neutral safety and clutch safety switch. MC's may also have a sidestand safety switch.

These safety switches prevent engine starting unless the clutch lever is pulled or the sidestand is up or the transmission is in neutral.

The neutral switch is usually located on the side in the area of the shifter lever, under the engine cover. You'll see a lead attached to the switch.

Check the lead and connection for a clean, tightly fastened connection. The lead insulation should not have any defects.

See the wiring diagram in the service manual for details of the circuit. Electrical testing procedures can be found in the service manual.

Visit "www.atvfrontier.com" and ask other Quadrunner owners if they've experienced the same problem and how they fixed their problem.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively