Power will not turn off

[nativetex]

My 1998 has an electrical issue. The key will not shut off power. I have to disconnect the battery to get all power off. When I connect the battery, the headlights automatically come on and I can start the bike with the key in the off position. When I stop, I can shut the motor off with the kill switch, but all power stays on; even with the key in the off position. Has anyone ever had this problem or know what it could be?

[olddog1946]

Sounds to me like you've got more than one problem. The ignition switch and the start switch. I'd start with the ignition switch first. Disconnect it, and use an ohmeter to check it's operation (with battery out of system and the switch harness unplugged. If it functions like it should, then look at the start relay itself. But limit your troubleshooting to one problem at a time.

[Patrick]

When did this problem start ? Has anything been done recently ? If so, start there.

[98pacecar]

Nope,, but it could be any number of things, from a bad ignition to a bare spot in the insulation of two wires somewhere in da sheath dat have shorted together.

As an electrician (many moons ago in da USAF) I would isolate the ignition n' start (with a good meter) checkin it's functions,

If all is standard, start ringing wires out.

You do,,,,,,,,, have a schematic?  

[Highbinder]

The first thing I'd check is your diode, located in your fuse box to the right of your row of fuses....it looks just like a fuse...this little deal regulates where all the electrical sources go...only way I know of to check it, is to replace it with another..

[R J]

The first thing I'd check is your diode, located in your fuse box to the right of your row of fuses....it looks just like a fuse...this little deal regulates where all the electrical sources go...only way I know of to check it, is to replace it with another..

I'd go along with Highbinder's suggestion.  I blew my diode one time messing with a jumper battery.     It acted about like you said.    I think it was Punisher to look there but won't say for sure.   All I remember is they were from the South.

To whomever, I owe that thank you, here it comes, 'THANK YOU BRO'.

[Skinhead]

If you want to check the diode, remove it and check continuity with a volt/ohm meter.  You should have continuity in one direction only.  In other words check, then reverse polarity (reverse the leads).  If the diode is good, you should not have continuity both ways.