Forum

[Mickey]

Stu, Just before you replace the solenoid, check the connector on the cable from the clutch switch (three wires green/black/brown I think) You should be able to get to it without removing the headlamp by turning the forks to the right. It's a common cause but not always thought of. Good luck.
REgards, Mick.

[STU]

Hi all, fitted new RE solenoid this evening (15 mins).
Started straight on the button. Obviously has failed on LT side but had never got wet and looked perfect - must have shorted internally?
So, if it goes again what would be the best/easiest swop from a Jap bike?
Thanks to all for your advice.

[Norm]

Stu, Not sure what Jap solonoid will fit, most of them are small enough and no problem fitting the battery leads, it is just the ignition and the solonoid activator wire that migh not just plug on. If there is a Jap bike wrecker anywhere near you see what they have on offer, otherwise look up solonoids on ebay and see what comes up. We found the RE solonoid far too dear for the quality, infact at one stage I fitted a solonoid off a Cortina on mine

[STU]

Thanks again Norm - yes the RE solenoid is not cheap at £42 inc taxes, but it looks to be OK quality - only time will tell.
There is a bike breakers near to my barbers, I'll take it to them to see about a match up. I need a hair cut this co9ming Saturday!
Good to 'talk' to you Norm!

[Norm]

Stu,
quality may look ok but the fact that many fail is a pretty good indication that what is inside isn't that flash

[Alan R]

Hi matey------this is what I use on my 1975 Honda GL1000 Goldwing }-------http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/STARTER-RELAY ... --------go onto E-bay and type in HONDA STARTER SOLENOID.........to see approx 1,700 items at approx £10-£15.And these are all 12v units as well. That £42 is just a no-no.

[Alan R]

Hello again----------- just as a follow-up have a look at this}-------http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/New-Starter-R ... ----------

[STU]

Yes, that would have done it Alan R! £7.95. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction. Unfortunately I've already bought and fitted the £42 RE item - but if it goes again (after the 1 year warranty) I'll be wiser.
I'm also going to look in at my local bike breakers this Saturday - if I can buy one for a fiver I may just get it as a spare.
Once bitten.........

[Norm]

Between the cost of new sprags and the highly overpriced solonoid the eletric start has been a financial nightmare for many people

[Alan R]

Lately, I've been toying with the idea of either a Kawasaki W650 or the current W800 as a lightweight replacement to the GL1000. The W650 has a proper kick-starter whilst the W800 hasn't. Both have electric start with, I presume, a sprag-clutch of some description. Interesting. But then the Moto-Guzzi V7 has my eye as well.