have to jump solenoid to start bike

[Mbrown]

What could this be other than a bad solenoid? I have to jump the two large terminals, then she fires right up. Clutch lever switch, maybe? can i jumper those wires, is that an accurate test of the clutch switch?

Thanks,
Mark
1981 CB750F

 

[Mbrown]

Just as a test, tonight I held the starter button in, then tapped the solenoid with a screwdriver handle. Fired right up, i guess that means its a bad solenoid.

 

[grepper]

Sounds like it. They are pretty cheap, $20-$30 on eBay

 

[zanthor]

Having just gone through this there are a few other things that could be causing the problem...

A bad starter button, neutral switch or bad clutch switch could cause this.

Check for 12v when the starter button is depressed at the Solenoid, and check for a clear path to ground from the solenoid. If I read the wiring diagram right the solenoid won't have a path to ground if those are bad. (Note: Either one being good should get you a path to ground assuming you are in neutral or have the clutch depressed.)

 

[Mbrown]

Thanks, I ordered one.