Battery? Starter Switch?

[mmvalk]

Bought my battery Feb 2010, keep it on a Ctek 3300 charger when not riding.  Went to start the bike just now and I heard a 'click' and nothing else.  Checked all the fuses and connections and all seems well.  After several attempts, checked the voltage and it's 11.8.  When the ignition switch is 'on', there's no horn nor signals (the headlight is on though).  Lastly, when reconnecting to the Ctek, the Ctek charge indicator flashes...

Me thinks it's time for a new battery - make sense?

Marty

[Bighead]

You could have a starter switch problem but if battery only reads 11.8 it won't start the valk. Try to jump it from your car battery( not running) if it starts it is the battery.

[sandy]

I too have the 3300 and have not seen a flashing light. If you're only seeing 11.8 VDC, I'd guess the battery isn't taking a charge.

[mmvalk]

Just downloaded the Ctek 3300 manual - states that if the charge indicator light flashes for more than 30 minutes, replace the battery - mine has been flashing for more than an hour.  Just pulled the trigger and bought a Yuasa YTX14H-BS.

[John Schmidt]

The battery is six years old.....IT'S TIME! Even if you find something else causing the problem, it's still time for a new battery.

[WintrSol]

When you change the battery, here's something else to check: the other end of the battery ground cable. I just replaced the battery in my CB450, and, with my CCA tester, the new battery tests about 188 at the battery; out of curiosity, I tested from the battery positive to the engine case, and it dropped over 40. I took the cable end that attaches to the engine case off, cleaned it and the aluminum case with a toothbrush and deOxit, and now it only loses about 4. It sure cranks faster and starts easier, now.

[mmvalk]

great idea!  thanks