I recently installed a stator and water pump in my 1984 Interstate.
Now the neutral indicator light does not come on when in neutral (or any gear for that matter).
Hence the engine will not crank over - unless I pull in the clutch lever, then it will crank and start.
So, troubleshooting the circuit, I discovered that the clutch diode was bad and replaced it.
Now for the head scratcher >
After installing the new diode, I still do not have the neutral light when in neutral AND even when I pull in the clutch lever!
Won't crank over - Nothing.
Keep in mind that when it had the bad diode, I can start and drive the bike.
What is going on?
Everything worked fine (except charging) until I put in new stator and water pump.
Neutral Light OFF when in neutral
- CAMillion
- Posts: 18
- Joined: Mon Apr 24, 2017 10:58 am
- Location: Wood River, NE, USA
- Motorcycle: 1979 GL1000
1984 GL1200
1984 GL1200 Interstate
1985 Big Red ATC (250ES)
1985 125M ATC
1985 200X ATC
1985 250SX ATC
2001 Rancher
1972 HD 125SL Street/Trail
(Aermacchi -AMF era)
Re: Neutral Light OFF when in neutral
I just found this post about the neutral switch inside the front case.
viewtopic.php?f=5&t=42261
I didn't move the sitch and quite certain that it is within the constraints of the shifter fork.
But I did NOT verify that the neutral came on prior to reassembly.
Probably have to drain oil and verify ...
Unless y'all have a better idea.
viewtopic.php?f=5&t=42261
I didn't move the sitch and quite certain that it is within the constraints of the shifter fork.
But I did NOT verify that the neutral came on prior to reassembly.
Probably have to drain oil and verify ...
Unless y'all have a better idea.
Kinda into HONDA machines!


- ct1500
- Posts: 1581
- Joined: Wed Nov 10, 2010 8:09 pm
- Location: Glastonbury,CT
- Motorcycle: 1988 GL1500
- Contact:
Re: Neutral Light OFF when in neutral
Diodes are polarity sensitive, could it be installed backwards or is it a fool proof connector (only fits one way)?
Local and need repair help with your 1500, Valkyrie or ST please click contact
Nothing leaves my shop till its' perfect
This is what I do
Nothing leaves my shop till its' perfect
This is what I do
- CAMillion
- Posts: 18
- Joined: Mon Apr 24, 2017 10:58 am
- Location: Wood River, NE, USA
- Motorcycle: 1979 GL1000
1984 GL1200
1984 GL1200 Interstate
1985 Big Red ATC (250ES)
1985 125M ATC
1985 200X ATC
1985 250SX ATC
2001 Rancher
1972 HD 125SL Street/Trail
(Aermacchi -AMF era)
Re: Neutral Light OFF when in neutral
Clutch diode in the correct 'socket' with the correct orientation.
Kinda into HONDA machines!


- CAMillion
- Posts: 18
- Joined: Mon Apr 24, 2017 10:58 am
- Location: Wood River, NE, USA
- Motorcycle: 1979 GL1000
1984 GL1200
1984 GL1200 Interstate
1985 Big Red ATC (250ES)
1985 125M ATC
1985 200X ATC
1985 250SX ATC
2001 Rancher
1972 HD 125SL Street/Trail
(Aermacchi -AMF era)
Re: Neutral Light OFF when in neutral
Figured it out - Repositioned the shift indicator, must have moved upon initial assembly.
All good now!
All good now!
Kinda into HONDA machines!

