Repair question: headlight intermittent on '91 ZX6R - Page 4

 
We'll start with the fuse block; check the ignition switch; and prolly
clean the start button.

Greg

 
If the problem is reproducible (sounds like it might be), you can narrow it
down (if you can get to the wiring), but just putting a voltmeter across the
suspected bad element.

For example, if the ignition switch is suspected bad and the headlight isn't
on, just put a meter across the relevant contacts in the ignition switch
(while the problem is occurring).  If this is the problem, the voltage
reading will be approximately 12 volts.  If this is not the problem, the
voltage reading will be approximately 0 volts.

Meter probes that hang onto wires are helpful.

I'm making the assumption that you have a modern digital meter with high
input impedance and where the case of the meter is plastic and insulated
from the inputs.  (Just about any meter you buy nowadays meets that
description.)

Note that the approach I'm recommending will only work if there is only a
single fault.  If there are two faults in the circuit, the test I'm
proposing won't be reliable.

If the circuit is simple and if you can get to the relevant connections
easily, you should be able to narrow it down ...

Dave.

 
I do have a DVMand if we can get to the relevant parts, I'll try that.
Thanks, Greg

 
I just lurk here but every time I've had this happen it's the contacts
on the starter switch wearing out. You can often reproduce the
occurrence by jiggling the button up and down.
Karl

 

I was about to wonder aloud how on earth this could affect the
headlight, until I remembered that the US has had headlights wired
into the ignition for decades. They go off when you press the button,
right?

That's quite a good call.

Mind you, I think new model bikes in Europe have the same damnfool
system these days.

Muttermutter, bring back acetylene lighting muttermutter.