Not starting after Winter lay-off.

[capt_biggles]

Greetings, all.
I have owned my 1988 GL1500 Aspencade for a year and a half and am very happy with the bike. I last used it in October, and it has been stored since then for health reasons. When I tried to start it again in Spring, I could hear a solenoid click but nothing from the starter motor (and the horn just croaked), so assumed the battery had died. I have fitted a new battery but the problem persists. By bypassing the starter solenoid on the right of the battery it starts and runs well (including the horn), so fitted a new starter solenoid. Still nothing. The click is coming from the solenoid on the left of the battery, but nothing from the one on the right. The wiring and fuses all seem to be sound (fuses all checked and good), so am at a loss for now. I have a Haynes manual, but to be frank, the circuit diagrams are all a bit (a lot!) beyond me, so I got a more electrical-savvy friend to come over and have a look. He can't suggest anything either. There seems to be three wires to the starter button: blue/white (switched live, 12V), Yellow/red (continuity to the plug on the starter solenoid) and a brown wire (no idea, as the Haynes manual doesn't seem to show the switch gear). Any ideas anyone?
Thanks,
Biggles

[bluthundr31]

Do you have access to a handheld multi-meter (voltmeter?) to troubleshoot the issue??

Is the battery in a full charge condition? What's its voltage with no load? With a load?

There is a very decent troubleshooting guide for "no start" conditions with the 1500's, , , check it out
https://www.goldwingfacts.com/forums/10 ... -tips.html

Check the DIY section on this site for additional help with diagnosing a 'no start" issue, , , there's a ton of great info there for sure.

[capt_biggles]

Thanks for that. I will look into the link, and pass it on to my electrical-minded friend too.

Biggles

[capt_biggles]

OK. Quick question next. Where are all the electrical components hidden on the bike? Seat and side panels off no problem, but that just gives me the battery, starter solenoids (either side of battery), and the fuse box on the other side. I have already checked these, but need to find the rest so I can check them out, mainly the reverse control systems, but my Haynes manual (and owner's book) are useless.

Thanks.

[Rambozo]

OK. Quick question next. Where are all the electrical components hidden on the bike?

Relay box is to the rear of the fuse box. Move saddlebag for access. Other bits and bobs are scattered all over the bike. Under the seat, under the trunk, etc. The Honda service manual is really worth it for these bikes.

[virgilmobile]

Bike in neutral,operate the reverse lever a few times..push the start button.