Electrical Gremlins

Easy question first. Stop light won't come on unless I REALLY depress the front brake lever. Do I need a new switch and are they available? Second, more difficult question.

Noticed that my Headlight Failure Indicator Light came on the other day. Replaced the bulb, but still stays on. Tried to check the reserve lighting system, but the procedure in the shop manual assumes the indicator light is out (not stuck on like mine). Also, my front turn signals are "on" when i turn on the ignition and for the life of me I don't remember if this is "normal" or not. Another thing, my turn signals have always flashed sloooooooooowly. Now, they do not flash and the 4 way flasher only works if the turn signal lever is positioned in the "left" or "right" signal position. If the turn signals are 'off", the 4 ways will not flash. I think i need Edison, or maybe even Albert!

Try cleaning the brake light switch with some good electrical contact cleaner. NOT WD-40 AS IT LATER BECOMES A NON-CONDUCTOR!

Bikes of this era had/have front running lights built into the turn signals. A dual filiment bulb functions for both uses. The rear turn signals do not have runing light capabilities.

I'd take apart the turn signal switch assembly in the left handlebar control pod and check for wiring problems.

Another place to inspect is inside the headlight housing as this is where a majority of connectors are going to the main harness. Remove the two headlight screws, remove the headlight,unplug the headlight, and clean and inspect the many and various connectors there.

Your flasher problem may be age related, go to the auto parts store and buy a new one.

I would replace the front switch to take care of that problem. As for the rest I would check the flasher, and all lamps for the blinker circuit. Not positive but if you have three wires for the front blinkers then you have running lights up front and they are supposed to be on all the time. If they were slow before they quit blinking I would replace the flasher unit since they are inexpensive.

Thank you both. Am going to try all you suggest.

Well, replaced the turn signal and 4 way flashers and things ALMOST work as they should. Turn signals seem to work fine, but the 4 ways will only work if I have the right or left turn signal on. Strange, but I can live with that. However, still have the problem with the headlamp failure light staying on. Do any of you have experience with the reserve lighting device? I'd like to know how to check it. I tried the tests in the shop manual, but I must be missing something. I also wonder if I'd ever find one if mine is shot. Thanks.