1985 shadow vt500 nothing turns on Help!!!

[movinon]

Hi there I have a 1985 Honda Shadow vt500

I was told when I bought the bike that it needed a battery. Now I have cleaned the carbs carefully wasn't my first time. I have checked over all the grounds, and all fuses. I have tryed to boost the bike and just cant get any power to turn on, no lights nothing.

I was just wondering if somebody could please give me some tips or advice to point me in the right direction. Thanks, Cody

[HardRock]

Did you check the master link?

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[Rock]

Multiple posts of the same question will not help you any better.

Originally Posted by Rock

Voltmeter. Costs a few bucks at HarborFreight or an auto parts store.
Do you have 12V DC accross the battery terminals?
if yes move to next step
Do you have 12V DC between battery ground and both sides of the main fuse?

If the main fuse is toast you would expect these symptoms.

[movinon]

What is a master link ?

[Rock]

Originally Posted by movinon

What is a master link ?

It is the technical name or proper name of the item that serves as the main fuse.

[movinon]

yes the master fuse is the 30amp located by the starter solnoid I have checked that one and I have checked the main ground and it is secure and clean.

I am just waiting for a friend to bring me a multi meter. In also took my starter switch apart and was going to use a paper clip to short out the starter switch to see if it starts, could that work?

[kyxon]

But you aren't getting lights or anything when you turn the key? If you've got no lights I wouldn't bother with the starter yet.

[movinon]

Thats right thanks so I need to follow the wires then to see where theres a short?

[dgraves49]

Unless you are blowing fuses it isn't a short.
With a test light or multi meter start at the battery. You will want to check the ignition switch to make sure it has current on the 1 terminal and that the other terminals have current when the key is turned on.
Also when checking fuses do it with a meter or light, I have seen them break from vibration and you couldn't tell it by looking at them.

[John Hopkins]

yes the master fuse is the 30amp located by the starter solnoid I have checked that one and I have checked the main ground and it is secure and clean.

I am just waiting for a friend to bring me a multi meter. In also took my starter switch apart and was going to use a paper clip to short out the starter switch to see if it starts, could that work?

You can't test for an electrical fault without a digital multimeter and if you are stupid enough to stick a paperclip in place of a 30amp fuse you would be better off parking the bike until someone who understands the basics of electricity can look at it..

Meters cost $10..buy one then start following instructions posted on here..

John.