GL1800- 2008 Intermittent Starting Problem


Information and questions on GL1800 Goldwings (2001-2017)
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dhouser1945
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Joined: Tue Dec 07, 2010 10:01 pm
Location: St. Johns, FL 32259
Motorcycle: 2008 GL1800 Trike

GL1800- 2008 Intermittent Starting Problem

Post by dhouser1945 »



Have a problem on occasions with starting Goldwing (2008). Sometimes when I push starter switch it will not start without slightly wiggling handlebar. It has then always started after doing that. Only on an occasion, but I am doing the 40 to Phoenix in a few weeks, and am concerned it may get worse. Dealership could not recreate the problem, couldn't help me. Suggested that if it continued to replace start/rev switch. Any thoughts on what the problem or fix could be would be greatly appreciated.

P.S. This is my 1st post- hope I am in correct forum


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Viking
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Re: GL1800- 2008 Intermittent Starting Problem

Post by Viking »

Spray an electronics cleaner in the switch and work it a bit. This might clean it up. The switches on these GL1800s seem to be notorious for getting dirty and not working well.
It ain't about the destination - it's all about the journey

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dhouser1945
Posts: 5
Joined: Tue Dec 07, 2010 10:01 pm
Location: St. Johns, FL 32259
Motorcycle: 2008 GL1800 Trike

Re: GL1800- 2008 Intermittent Starting Problem

Post by dhouser1945 »

Sprayed electronic cleaner into starter switch a few days ago. I have periodically tried starting and still get intermittent problems as mention in above post. Today, while trying again, I had same issue, and wiggled handlebars and it would start. Then I thought of testing it by starting in neutral, no clutch, and it would start every time. Starting it with clutch lever pulled and in gear it went back to same problem. Looks like the clutch lever is causing problems. Lever is OEM ( had problem with after-market a few years ago only starting in neutral), Any suggestion on fixing the problem. Heading to 40 to Phoenix next week and would like to solve this problem
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virgilmobile
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Re: GL1800- 2008 Intermittent Starting Problem

Post by virgilmobile »

First...I am not a expert on the 1800's...but...
If you have a intermittent crank while in gear and relying on the clutch lever switch to operate the starter,I'd inspect there.
On the 1500's,when this happens,it's caused by 3 possibilities.
1.the switch is intermittent..a ohm meter test..
2.the pivot bushing is worn...visual inspection..
3.the grips may be interfering with the activation of the switch.
Listen very closely,as you operate the clutch lever,just before it touches the grip it should click the neutral switch.
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Viking
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1987 Harley Softail Custom
1974 Harley FLH (sold)
1965 Harley FLHE (sold)
1957 Harley Chopper (sold)

Re: GL1800- 2008 Intermittent Starting Problem

Post by Viking »

Virgil is correct. The most likely culprit is at the clutch itself. Either the pin or bushing, or the little switch inside the handlebar switch housing.
It ain't about the destination - it's all about the journey

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dhouser1945
Posts: 5
Joined: Tue Dec 07, 2010 10:01 pm
Location: St. Johns, FL 32259
Motorcycle: 2008 GL1800 Trike

Re: GL1800- 2008 Intermittent Starting Problem

Post by dhouser1945 »

Thanks for the help with this problem. Everything is working as it should. I can now rest a little easier with my trip to Phoenix.
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virgilmobile
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83 GL1100 I
83 GL1100 standard
84 GL 1200 I

Re: GL1800- 2008 Intermittent Starting Problem

Post by virgilmobile »

WHAT...and not tell us what was wrong and how you fixed it..???
Come on....have some sympathy.???
dhouser1945
Posts: 5
Joined: Tue Dec 07, 2010 10:01 pm
Location: St. Johns, FL 32259
Motorcycle: 2008 GL1800 Trike

Re: GL1800- 2008 Intermittent Starting Problem

Post by dhouser1945 »

Sorry about that. Yes it was the clutch lever- adjusted and replaced pivot point- was loose.
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virgilmobile
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Previously owned
78 GL1000
81 GL1100
82 GL1100 I
83 GL1100 I
83 GL1100 standard
84 GL 1200 I

Re: GL1800- 2008 Intermittent Starting Problem

Post by virgilmobile »

Thank you.My mind is at ease now. :D

At least for a few minutes...next...
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canuck623
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Location: Glendale, Arizona
Motorcycle: 2008 GL 1800 Level 3

Re: GL1800- 2008 Intermittent Starting Problem

Post by canuck623 »

Glad you got it fixed. See you in Phoenix. I will be there helping with the local tour rides. I am doing South Moutain with a luch stop at a nice Mexican restaurant. Ride safe.
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Re: GL1800- 2008 Intermittent Starting Problem

Post by body »

Same on mine 2001 170000km
Start switch inop on neuttral or with clutch. intermitently.
Play back and fort with the key always work for me. Have to open ignition switch probably loose or worn rotation contact.


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