Headlight problem on '99 V-Max

[Raptor36]

My V-Max has developed a problem with its headlight. It should come on when the main switch is turned on. But, it doesn't. Then, after a few minutes it will come on by itself and usually stays on. Wiggling the key doesn't seem to matter, nor does smacking the headlight a few times. I've have had inconsistent results with turning the bike off (after it had been running a few minutes) and turning the switch back on. It comes on immediately - once in a while - after I do something like that, but not very often. I'm thinking it's a resistance problem of some sort. Either bad ground, bad relay, or bad main switch. But doubt it's the lamp itself. Both beams are good once they light up. Any thoughts or experience dealing with this kind of problem would be appreciated.

JT

[Easy Rider]

Originally Posted by Raptor36

I'm thinking it's a resistance problem of some sort. Either bad ground, bad relay, or bad main switch. But doubt it's the lamp itself.

I think you're gonna find something loose or corroded, maybe the base of the lamp itself. If nothing "easy" shows up, don't rule out the lamp completely. If you get a replacement and that's not the problem, then you have a spare.

[Raptor36]

Good idea. I'll check it out. Thnx!

[Aussie Steve]

I would strongly suspect the relay...easy to see in action if mounted in a visable place. Remove seat or whatever is needed to watch and listen to the relay. Switch on your ignition...this should lite up the headlite...yes?

If the relay is making any noise ...like a little buzzing it indicates it is toast. Similarly if it suddenly clicks into contact and the lite comes on. It may only be loose so I would not go out and buy a new one without further examinatin of the offending relay and its mounting.

You could also check out the dip switch. I had a problem with my main beam not coming on sometimes when the switch was operated...never found out what it was...probably a speck of crud under the contact.

Now I know its not this thats your particular problem but it indicates, that in general, switch gear can become a little reluctant to work especialy if you live in a damp climate.

Good luck

[bbraegger]

Originally Posted by Raptor36

My V-Max has developed a problem with its headlight. It should come on when the main switch is turned on. But, it doesn't. Then, after a few minutes it will come on by itself and usually stays on. Wiggling the key doesn't seem to matter, nor does smacking the headlight a few times. I've have had inconsistent results with turning the bike off (after it had been running a few minutes) and turning the switch back on. It comes on immediately - once in a while - after I do something like that, but not very often. I'm thinking it's a resistance problem of some sort. Either bad ground, bad relay, or bad main switch. But doubt it's the lamp itself. Both beams are good once they light up. Any thoughts or experience dealing with this kind of problem would be appreciated.

JT

Hey I just had the same problem. I took it to my buddy's shop and we tracked down the short all the way threw the system and found it to be the starter button was not clicking back from after starting the bike. My bike started fine, but even with it running it only occasionaly had lights and illumination on the instrament pannel and other times I didn't. Check it out maybe you have the same proablem