Hitchcocks Forum

My basic question is... Am I looking for a bad wiring connection or something more complicated like a regulator or whatever, that I don't know about?
My year 2007 Classic 500 runs fine, but with the engine not running / ignition still switched on, the horn just makes a very feeble clicking sound. So... I have connected a temporary wire direct from the battery[+] to the horn[+] and then all is fine: A strong note from the horn when the button is pressed. This temporary wire also causes the lights, including speedo back light, to be noticeably brighter (ie with engine not running). I've been playing with this for a while and would appreciate any thoughts to hurry me along! Thanks in advance. Chris.

Chris if you can get me a schematic of the wiring I might well be able to help . There may be a diode or two in the system but first point of call as always is earth connections.

Hi there. My feeling is, but do correct me anybody, it's sort of the OPPOSITE of the earth thing. But a connection like you suggest, Noel. The horn button works on the [-] wire, so my inclination is to suppose there's a problem on the [+] side. Noel,thanks for the offer.. I suppose you mean the standard wiring diagram for this bike. Have you got an email or something to send it to? Many thanks, chris

email is [email protected] The schematic is a diagram not based on the loom but on the electrical properties however the wiring diagram might give enough info. As to the earth not being a problem electricity follows the least resistance so if the earth as intended is more resistance to alternatives then it will go that way (think flashing brake light instead of indicator 0

Chris,newish on here,mines a 2003 export model,what about your flashers and brake/side lights?Do they work fine with engine stopped and ignition switched on?

Hi Jaffa, With the engine off and ignition switched on, lights work ok, but just go brighter when I put an extra wire from the battery [+] to the horn [+]. The horn won't work unless this wire is used. However, with the engine running it all works fine. Though I do think it needs to be revving ie charging. - C

Chris,you no answer question,you have just repeated your last answer!

Hi Jaffa,
I think I meant to include brake lights and sidelights in the reply, if that makes any more sense. And yes, they do go brighter with the extra wire. It's harder to tell with the indicators as they keep going on and off..... Thanks, Chris

I can`t see all the lights,horn and flashers having faulty wiring,when you hot wire anything your by-passing the battery connection,wire and main fuse,ignition switch and the live in the cluster switch.You say everythings ok with engine running,so that tells me your battery is low or a cell down with engine stopped.What`s the voltage reading at the (1) battery terminals with engine STOPPED and also (2) using the + battery terminal and the earth -- frame? You could also check the voltage at the ignition swith and cluster switch after. Q,Why can`t you see the flashers working normally???????????????

Sounds like bad earthing to me.