Starter / Switch problem?

[garyinvb]

Hi - when attempting to start the 07 shadow spirit 750dc today I turned the kill switch on , hit the starter and nothing - but the light dimmed almost out. I played with the kill switch and then finally got it to start. After that I am using the key to kill it and it works as long as I dont touch the kill switch. Does it sound like the kill switch needs replacing? The light going totally dim like its draining the battery is the wierd part... if ya need more info, I'm willing... and if so - is this an easy fix (I'm not totally incapable but mechanics with cables is not my thing), or about how much would I expect to pay to fix it? Thanks!

Gary

[DaveCarlson]

Sounds like the kill switch is shorting out. When something shorts out it can send a bunch of current to ground and act just as you described. Pull the clam shell apart and take a look. It really isn't that complicated as you'll see when you get in there. Could be a pinched wire too. Take a good look, they can be tough to see since they may not appear to be pinched when the clam shell is open.
Dave

[Schattenreiter]

First off the lights dimming when you hit the start button is normal. It is wired so current flows to the lights until you press the start button. This diverts most of the battery power to the starter for a quicker start.

The start/ switch is problem area on Hondas.

Here is a link to some info that might help.

Starter Button Maintenance on Valkyries

Hope that helps.

[Eldorado]

As another good suggestion is that when you shut the bike off (as you mentioned) use the key and not the kill switch, I very, very seldom (if at all) use the kill switch, using the key makes sure everything if off..........that's the way I look at it.......

["Captain D"]

I use the KEY to switch off my Bike!! Also...

I cleaned the starter switch as per "Rattlebar instructions", three years ago and have had NO Problem outta it since...
Good Luck,
Dennis

[garyinvb]

Awesome information! Thanks - guess thats why I'm here! lol

I'll update this after this weekend when I get a chance to pull it apart. Appreciate it!

Gary