Kisan Signal Minder sucks

[Momz]

I bought the SM3 and of course I had to get creative to mount it.  When first installed as a simple signal timer it worked, but I still needed to push in the TS button before it could be turned on again.

I then tried both the original TS springs and the "updated" version without either working to bring the TS button to the neutral position.

I hooked up the running light feature and it worked for while. Then suddenly only one TS running light worked and the unit stopped signal timing altogether.

I called customer service, as I still kept my receipt and all the parts removed. I was told the store that I purchaced it from was not on their list of retailers. NO $HIT, they went under several years ago.

I paid $99.00 + tax for this useless device and replaced it with the OEM relay.

I hope no one on this board is using this peice of crap. (Putting on my flameproof suit)

[John Schmidt]

That's one of the reasons I changed the handlebar controls over to HD. Left turn button on the left side, right turn button one the right side. Took some thinking to adapt the HD wiring to the Honda harness but took it one circuit at a time and it's worked flawlessly for the last 5-6 years. When I bought the set, I made sure I got the larger piston(and same size) for both master cylinders...clutch and brake. After I was done with the control installation, I wired in a Penta-Star module(# 1007) to control the turns. It gives me three different lengths of time for the signals, shuts itself off...or press the button. Press both L&R at the same time and get Hazard flashing...same thing to shut it off. If you hold the brake it interrupts the timing and will pick up when you release it. Works great, $94 at Custom Dynamics. And I don't have to worry about leaving my turn sig. on for the next 20 miles because I forgot it. Besides, the cost of the complete control set is less expensive than getting the OEM controls chromed....and less work.

I wired it in and laid the small module on top of the battery cover.

When I lost the choke on the left side, I made up my own version on the left carb bank. And so I could start the bike in gear since I lost the clutch switch, I simply installed a brake pressure switch down below where the clutch hydraulic line attaches to the back of the engine.

My current choke control, just move the lever with the black knob.

[MarkT]

I've used a Kisan signal minder for years.  Had to have it replaced once - N/C.  I invented their brake circuit override - they sent me the schematic & I wired it up.  After that they offered it as an option.  No commission for my invention, other than they did give me a free unit.  My unit still works.  There are probably better solutions by now, but this one has worked for me.  I'm used to it.

[John Schmidt]

I've used a Kisan signal minder for years.  Had to have it replaced once - N/C.  I invented their brake circuit override - they sent me the schematic & I wired it up.  After that they offered it as an option.  No commission for my invention, other than they did give me a free unit.  My unit still works.  There are probably better solutions by now, but this one has worked for me.  I'm used to it.

I still have one of those units with the brake override. Took it off when I converted to the HD controls, but never had a problem with it while installed. Just had to remember to flip the switch back every time which bugged me.

[ricoman]

Installed one over a year ago. Never a problem. The Turn signal indicator bulb was causing a flashing problem; called their tech supprt and spoke with a very knowledgeable lady (the owners daughter, actually) she sent me a new indicator bulb (with some resistor in it, I think)-the unit works flawlessly.
I use the 4 way flasher feature on a lot of Patriot Guard rides and the auto signal shut off is a great feature.
Mounting was a no-brainer, very simple-wire ties under the seat.

[BonS]

I've used on for years on my I/S. I have three issues with it:

1) The unit sometimes fails to start correctly and I have to recycle the key and all is fine.
2) The unit sometimes goes haywire when I activate the turn signals while the brake is on. A key recycle is required.
3) There is a buzz in the intercom from the PWM circuit used by the SignalMinder. Tech support is  aware of the issue.

I continue to use it mainly for its self-canceling feature. I recently purchased another for my 2nd Valkyrie. But first I'm going to swap it with the one on my I/S to see if there is any improvement.

[Oyeaa]

When I installed the SM I had to cut the springs down in the switch box. PITA. But they did work just like they were advertised.  Except the terrible buzzing noise it put on the headsets.  As you say tech support is aware of it but unable to fix it.  I tried all kind of voodoo tricks to eliminate the noise on the headsets.  Nothing fixed it until I removed the SM unit. 

Now I have a simple DC motor with an eccentric weight on the shaft. (  similar to http://www.blinkerbuddy.com/  but one I wired up )  It will not turn off your signals like the SM but it will give you a seat buzz until you do, and their is zero interference!

3) There is a buzz in the intercom from the PWM circuit used by the SignalMinder. Tech support is  aware of the issue.

[joefromperry]

I've had the SM3 SignalMinder on my Interstate for about five years now with no problems at all. I also have the running light option and the VectraLights plugged in, and I am very pleased with the product. Just my two cents.

[The Purple Haze]

I have had one on my Trike for years.  All I remember is having to chop the little springs (I lost a couple and they were promptly replaced for free).  Then, I had a lot of trouble with it working sporadicaly until I removed all the Scotch connectors and soldered all the wire connections.  Never a single problem since then.

[OldOneEye]

When I installed the SM I had to cut the springs down in the switch box. PITA. But they did work just like they were advertised.  Except the terrible buzzing noise it put on the headsets.  As you say tech support is aware of it but unable to fix it.  I tried all kind of voodoo tricks to eliminate the noise on the headsets.  Nothing fixed it until I removed the SM unit. 

Now I have a simple DC motor with an eccentric weight on the shaft. (  similar to http://www.blinkerbuddy.com/  but one I wired up )  It will not turn off your signals like the SM but it will give you a seat buzz until you do, and their is zero interference!

3) There is a buzz in the intercom from the PWM circuit used by the SignalMinder. Tech support is  aware of the issue.

SignalMinder
I made my own out of a massage seat that you buy for cars seats (they have a control for heat and different vibes) I just cut one out and used Chet's wiring diagram with the two diodes and then screwed it to my seat. Now every blink I get a funny feeling down there.

[Momz]

I won a "Blinker Buddy" at IZXI and I may just install it in my I/S seat.
Who knows, I might leave my blinkers on if the vibes turn me on.