What are the signs of a bad ignition switch?

There are a couple of indicators of a bad ignition switch. The first indicator is if your bike will not start, and you know your battery and connections are good. This seems pretty obvious, but there are other things that can cause your ignition system to fail. If you have a neutral light, you can check to see if it is lighting when you turn your key on. If the neutral light does not come on, it may mean your motorcycle ignition switch is bad. Other indicators would include a loose-fitting key or the bike stalling when riding down the road.

How often should spark plugs be replaced?

This varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Harley recommends changing your motorcycle spark plugs every 10,000 miles. This is not because the spark plugs have gone bad, it is simply because they are not as efficient as they were when they were new. Spark plugs wear over time. The edges of the electrodes will eventually burn down. Spending a few dollars to keep your motorcycle running like it should is a good idea. Check your manufacturer recommendations to determine when is best to change your spark plugs.

How do you know if your brake light switch is bad?

It depends on which switch you are trying to diagnose. The brake light switch actuated by your hand brake lever is a tiny momentary switch. If you listen carefully, you can hear it “click” when you apply your hand brake. If your brake light is not coming on, and you do not hear that “click”, it is a good indicator that your switch may be bad. Rear brake pedals typically use plunger mechanical switches. If your brake light is not working when you apply your rear brake pedal, locate the wires to the rear brake switch. Turn off the ignition. Unplug the two wires and jump the circuit with a small piece of wire. If you turn on the ignition and the rear brake light is on, your switch is bad.

What is the average life of a motorcycle battery?

There are a variety of variables that you need to consider when determining the average life-span of a motorcycle battery. AGM lead acid batteries will not last as long as some of the newer lithium batteries. Most lead acid AGM batteries have a 4 year service life span. If you live in a cold climate and do not maintain your battery during the winter months you will greatly reduce the life span of your battery. This applies to Conventional, AGM, and Lithium batteries. During those winter months it is a good practice to keep those batteries charged and in a warm storage area.

What gauge wire is used on motorcycles?

Most motorcycles use 16 to 18 gauge wire for the controls and lights. Items like starters and battery connections use ticker gauge wire typically 12 to 14 gauge.

Drag Specialties Motorcycle Electrical & Wiring

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Drag Specialties 5 ohm Dual Fire Coil - for Points Ignition
13 reviews $67.95

Drag Specialties High Performance Battery 1997-2003 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL
$147.95

Drag Specialties Hydraulic Brake Light Switch 1984-99 Harley-Davidson FLST/FX/FXST/FXR 79-85 XL 91-98 Dyna 71-84 FX 80-98 FLT 82-83 FXR
5 reviews $18.95

Drag Specialties Replacement Starter - 1990-2006 Harley-Davidson Big Twin/Twin Cam - Black
1 review $319.95

Drag Specialties High Performance Battery 2000-Up Harley-Davidson Softails 99-17 FXD/FXDWG/FLD
$147.95

Drag Specialties Complete Advance Unit Assembly 1970-1999 Harley Davidson Big Twin 1971-2003 XL Points Ignition (Except Single Fire Ignition)
$46.95

Drag Specialties Points Style Distributor - 1965-69 Harley-Davidson Big Twins - Single Hold Down
2 reviews $219.95

Drag Specialties AGM Maintenance Free Battery 1997-2003 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL
2 reviews $102.95

Drag Specialties AGM Maintenance Free Battery 2000-Up Harley-Davidson Softails 99-17 FXD/FXDWG/FLD
1 review $102.95

Drag Specialties AGM Maintenance Free Battery 1986-1996 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL
1 review $102.95

Drag Specialties 8.8 mm Spark Plug Wire Set - Universal
4 reviews $30.95

Drag Specialties High Performance Battery 1986-1996 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL
$150.95

Drag Specialties AGM Maintenance Free Battery 2004-Up Harley-Davidson Sportster XL 15-20 XG 500/750/750A
$86.95

Drag Specialties Points & Condenser Kit 1948-1969 Harley-Davidson Big Twin 1957-1970 XL
$14.95

Drag Specialties Breaker Plate Assembly 1970-1999 Harley Davidson Big Twin 1971-2003 XL Points Ignition (Except Single Fire Ignition)
$16.95

Drag Specialties Dual-Fire Ignition Coil - 2007-21 Harley-Davidson XL 2015-20 XG500/_750
$99.95

Drag Specialties Single-Fire Ignition Coil - 1999-06 Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 2004-06 XL
$61.95

Drag Specialties 5 ohm Dual Outlet Coil Single-Fire for Dual Plug Heads
$68.95

Drag Specialties Replacement Starter - 1986-2020 Harley-Davidson Sportsters - Chrome
$375.95

Drag Specialties Replacement Starter - 1986-2020 Harley-Davidson Sportsters - Black
$365.95

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