rxs 100 electrical problem

Davy Twed · L Plate Warrior Joined: 06 May 2010 Karma :

Hi new biker here. I have a problem that i was hoping somebody could help me with. I have just been given (free) a 1997 rxs 100.
Its been standing in my mates back yard for the last 10 years under a cover. I filled it up with fresh petrol fitted a new battery and it started 1st time. It passed its m.o.t. a week later with the original tyres on. Its only got 2000 miles on it so its relativley brand new.

Ive been riding it to work for the last two months with no problems until now. The indicators have stopped working!!!!.. Two flashes then they stop. I have fitted a new flasher unit and cleaned the only two earth points that i can find (under the tank at the front and the battery earth lead). When i put the flashers on the ignition lights flash.
They are very dim to start with anyway. I have checked the battery and it is sound.
Any help would be greatly appreciated
cheers Davy Twed

finpos · World Chat Champion Joined: 13 Sep 2005 Karma :

Battery most probably not anywhere near as sound as you think it is - especially if it's the original!

Take that one out and connect in a car battery or similar to test.

Edit: And if it's still bust, try taking out the dash repeater bulb...

f.

Davy Twed · L Plate Warrior Joined: 06 May 2010 Karma :

thanks for the prompt reply but the battery is brand new and reads over 6 volts when tested

finpos · World Chat Champion Joined: 13 Sep 2005 Karma :

...try removing the dash repeater bulb, then. And whatever you do don't connect it up to a 12V car battery Smile

If you have a 6V charger, charge the battery and see if things improve. Checking battery voltage is ok but you really need to check the battery voltage when it's got a load on it. I don't know where you got your battery from, but if it was a cheap one it's not unheard of for them to be crap on arrival.

f.

27cows · World Chat Champion Joined: 01 Nov 2009 Karma :

First thing I'd look at is the contacts in the switch. These are prone to going green/manky and stopping the indicators working either partially or completely. I always have to dismantle my switch for a good clean up at least once every winter.

Take care if you decide to strip the switch to remove the indicator bit as they're fairly fragile, with lots of small bits that are easily lost if you're not careful.
____________________
The RXS100: vehicle of choice for Chuck Norris

Robby · Dirty Old Man Joined: 16 May 2002 Karma :

To expand a little on cows' advice, this bike has spend 10 years outside under a cover. It's a cheap yamaha, so corrosion can be expected.

I recommend going over all of the connectors on the bike with a can of WD40 and some fine wire wool. Spray a bit of WD40 onto the spade or bullet and give it a rub with wire wool, and the dull copper will come up shiny. I don't have a decent method for cleaning out female terminals, but plugging and unplugging the join a few times tend to help. Afterwards, smear the spade or bullet with a bit of vaseline or copper grease to reduce subsequent corrosion.

Clean the switch as cows suggested as well. Carefully, they will no doubt have a small spring or ball bearing that decides to make a break for the darkest, dirtiest corner of your garage.

As for the battery, double check the electrolyte level (assuming its a lead-acid one) then stick it on a charge for at least 24 hours, preferably with all of the bike electrics disconnected from it.

Davy Twed · L Plate Warrior Joined: 06 May 2010 Karma :

Thanks for all the suggestions. Am going out today to buy a decent battery charger and then i will go over the bike and clean up all the connections i can. I will keep you all posted on my progress. thanks
dave