1980 GS850GL electrical problems

[Joe2710]

Ok, so I reassembled my battery casing and fixed the burnt connection and cleaned all the other ones, but my gas gauge is still showing that there is no gas (there's a full tank), the solenoid is no longer clicking when I press the starter, and my bike is not cranking either.

My battery is fully charged, the r/r is new and the stator is new as well. This is making no sense to me anymore why my bike will not run.

[BassCliff]

Hi,

Make sure the solenoid is well grounded. Does the bike crank if you use a screwdriver to short the two big leads on the solenoid?


Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

[Joe2710]

It did crank when I shorted the solenoid

[Joe2710]

would this be a good alternative for the solenoid that I have if I have to replace it?

http://www.amazon.com/Ricks-Motorsport-Electric-Solenoid-65-301/dp/B000GU2GR4/ref=au_pf_pfg_s?ie=UTF8&Make=Suzuki%7C1&Model=GS850GL%7C18011&Year=1980%7C1980&carId=002&n=15684181&newCar=1&s=automotive&vehicleType=motorcycle

[cowboyup3371]

You can pick one up from Lowes or Home Depot that will work

Found this through the search feature on here as it's been discussed alot.

http://www.lowes.com/pd_335967-442-490-250-0013_0__?catalogId=10051&productId=3308624&UserSearch=335967&Ntt=335967&N=0&langId=-1&storeId=10151&rpp=24

[Joe2710]

Will that part suffice, because I do not want an inferior product on my bike ya know?

Also, I am not sure why my gas gauge is still saying that I do not have any gas when I have a full tank.

[BassCliff]

Hi,

Yes, that solenoid will work just fine.

As for your fuel gauge, there are connections right where the tank and seat meet. Are they good?



Also have a loot at this guide:

Fuel Gauge Send Unit Repair
(by Mr. Jethro)


Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

[Joe2710]

So if the solenoid is not working unless it is shorted, does that mean it is busted? I know it may be a stupid question, but I just want to make sure.

[BassCliff]

Hi,

Did you test the start button?

Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

[Joe2710]

How does one do that? Even though my bike cranked, it wouldn't turn over.

[BassCliff]

Hi,

How does one do that?

I assume you mean "testing the start button". Do you have a multimeter? Test for resistance from the start button. Disconnect the button. When you press the button you should have zero resistance. When you release the button you should have infinite resistance (no connection). That is a properly operating start button. (It's just a switch, open or closed.)

Even though my bike cranked, it wouldn't turn over.

I think you mean "even though it cranked, it wouldn't start." Correct?

What maintenance have you done on the bike? Have you checked/cleaned/repaired every connection and ground in the wiring harness? Cleaned the fuse box? Replaced the spark plug caps? Cleaned the carbs? Replaced the intake boots and O-rings? Have you tested the stator? Have you gone through all the maintenance tasks in the "mega-welcome"? Have you gone through the Stator Papers and the other electrical documentation on my website? Have you "load tested" your battery? (The battery might show 12 volts but have a faulty cell and therefore very little amperage.)


Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff