Solenoid...again?

[ABGL1000]

The 79 decided to leave me stranded last week when it seemed like the starter button had crapped out on me. Jumped the posts on the solenoid to get it started, took the switch apart on the weekend and cleaned it as it was pretty grubby in there, still nothing. Went back out last night to try it again and noticed that the solenoid is making what I'd describe as a very quiet metallic clunk. Will still start if I jump it, but nothing when using the button. I just replaced the solenoid last year and even though it came from a local place, I'm sure it's a cheap Chinese replacement. Anywhere else I should be looking other than there? Like I said, starts fine when I jump the posts but only a dull thud from it when using the starter button.

[WingAdmin]

The 79 decided to leave me stranded last week when it seemed like the starter button had crapped out on me. Jumped the posts on the solenoid to get it started, took the switch apart on the weekend and cleaned it as it was pretty grubby in there, still nothing. Went back out last night to try it again and noticed that the solenoid is making what I'd describe as a very quiet metallic clunk. Will still start if I jump it, but nothing when using the button. I just replaced the solenoid last year and even though it came from a local place, I'm sure it's a cheap Chinese replacement. Anywhere else I should be looking other than there? Like I said, starts fine when I jump the posts but only a dull thud from it when using the starter button.

I think you're going to find that the contacts inside the starter relay (it's not actually a solenoid) are burned away. It happens on a lot of the Chinese aftermarket replacements, they aren't up to the task of switching the high amperage of Goldwings, even if they say they are rated for it.