Running lights not working

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10 Mar 2008 15:59 #199392 by civhatch90
Running lights not working was created by civhatch90
Hello all,
I have been lurking around here but never posted. Today I had a problem with my KZ550 (83). When I turn the key to the ON position, the running lights do not go on. Headlight and taillight never go on, however, the brake light and turn lights do work as they are supposed to.
I checked fuses and they are fine. What should I check next?

Here is a pic of the machine:

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10 Mar 2008 16:32 #199409 by rdgrnr
Replied by rdgrnr on topic Running lights not working
Hello,
Nice rideB)
It sound to me that either the headlight connector may have
loosened itself or failed. Check to be sure it is still fully
connected. Also check out the condition of the connector
and look closely for any "brown or dark" discoloring. It doesn't
take much to fry them if you get a bad connection. Also, someone
can corrct me if I'm wrong, but look on the backside of your
ignition switch and make sure everything is hooked up correctly.
One other thing you could try is to use a voltmeter at the
headlight connector to verify you have voltage going to the
headlight. If not, you will need to trace back to the electrical
panel. I had the same thing happen to me, but it was a bad
headlight.
BTW...you look like you are running a little lean on the
left side

77 KZ650B1
80 440 LTD Sold
78 GL1000 Naked Wing Sold
80 CM400E Sold
Brainerd, MN

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10 Mar 2008 16:47 #199414 by civhatch90
Replied by civhatch90 on topic Running lights not working
Thanks for the quick response.
as soon as i have time I am going to check the ignition switch because neither of the four lights that are supposed to turn on do so I think it may have something to do with that.

Why do you say I am running a little lean? is it because of the discoloration on the exhaust?
I have a carb sync planned for this spring, will that help?
thanks

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10 Mar 2008 17:00 #199416 by rdgrnr
Replied by rdgrnr on topic Running lights not working
Yes, the discoloration indicates it's running hot which indicates
a possible lean condition. The carb synch will help you getting the
carbs right, but take a closer look at your carb holders and
make sure they are pliable and not cracked and the clamps
are secure. Also check on the airbox side. Any leaks will
make using the synch tool a waste of your time. In the meantime,
you might want to check your mixture screws and see how far out they are.
Do you have a manual? If so, check in there for proper
adjustment.

77 KZ650B1
80 440 LTD Sold
78 GL1000 Naked Wing Sold
80 CM400E Sold
Brainerd, MN

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10 Mar 2008 17:09 #199417 by rdgrnr
Replied by rdgrnr on topic Running lights not working
But the best advice I can give you, is to do a search on this
forum for lean conditions, or pipes bluing. There are so many
more knowledgable guys on here with much more experience
than me that are more than glad to help.
Do the search first, and most likely your questions will be
answered rather quickly.
If not, just post it, and they will come...

77 KZ650B1
80 440 LTD Sold
78 GL1000 Naked Wing Sold
80 CM400E Sold
Brainerd, MN

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10 Mar 2008 17:56 #199420 by Saki Jockey
Replied by Saki Jockey on topic Running lights not working
www.metrovationinc.com/christemple/KZ550.pdf

Section 13 has the wiring diagrams. You will see the power for the lighting circuit comes out of the ignition switch, as rdgrnr stated.

As to whether your bike is running lean or not, lets see some posted pics of the spark plugs. Be sure and label cylinder #'s (on plug wire).

Ps. If you're afraid of scratching or denting that prestine gas tank, I have one that is already dented and scratched available for a straight up trade.

Rob.

Rob A.
550 A4
GTA,
Ontario, Canada

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10 Mar 2008 18:38 #199437 by civhatch90
Replied by civhatch90 on topic Running lights not working
Yeah, thanks. the first thing i will check is the ignition switch.

As soon as i get a chance i will also tackle on that lean condition, ill pull out the plugs and see what that tells us.

Also, the tank is almost in mint condition save for a small scratch, i bought the motorcycle with 570 miles last year and now it has 1250, it is in great condition.

Another question, i need to lube up the chain since it is showing a little surface rust, do I just buy any chain lubricant, or do you recommend any>?

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