I have a new 1999 FLSTC with electrical problems that you all have helped me figure out, thanks.

Now here is a new one.

Since I got it, the blinkers have not worked. I replaced the bulbs and they blew. The starter would not turn over because the a battery was not grounding and I replaced the battery to fix the problem (the positive post on the old battery was the culprit).

I took it for a ride after dark for the first time. I noticed all the lights dim for a fraction of a second at regular intervals (every 5 seconds). It does not matter if the engine is running, nor how fast the engine is running, the interval does not change. However, if I am revving the engine a spark will come out the right side of the handlebar clamp cover (part of the nacelle) at each interval.

I don't know where to start looking. Any suggestions are gratefully accepted, and thanks.

 

The -very first thing- I'd do is go looking for that spark and get it stopped. I'm fairly certain the only sparks you're supposed to have are at the end of the spark plugs.

 

Does your bike have internal wiring through handlebars? It sounds like you have a hot wire that has rubbed through and is arching to ground.

 

...or simply a wire that has been pinched at some time.

It is very obvious where you should start - sort out that spark in the handlebar before going any further! It will probably be very obvious once you look inside.

 

Yes, I did just install new bars, new switches and new wiring harnesses that run inside the bars. I'll pull 'em apart tonight and see what I find. I didn't tie up the extra wiring in the hand controls, so that is probably where I will find the problem. What an idiot I am sometimes.

Thanks guys!

 

Sure enough, organizing the wires in the right hand control solved the problem. Apparently I also positioned the break light button wrong too, so the break light is always on.

But, I would kind of like to make the spark come off the handlebars on demand, it was kind of pretty.

Thanks for the help friends.

 

I think you broke the brake light switch. When disassembling you probably didn't place a shim between brake lever and housing prior to removal of the barrel going through the right side. My guess.

Before going too crazy the plunger is most likely the culprit. But.... I would cross my fingers and try rear switch first just becuz I'd be grasping at straws before going into the switch housings, again. Rear switch is an easy test to see if lights work. Put a ohm meter between the two posts and check for continuity.

Probably aintgonna be the cause! Sorry

Before the proper procedures try this: Take a small set screw or a Gfci outlet cover screw and put it tween yer lips. Undo switch housing cover. Squeeze levr a few times to see operation. Drop the f@cking screw where the contact points are. This switch is normally open and the brake lever cuts the power.

If this don't work then don't ax me. I can't imagine a situation that I woul properly do something correctly.

Bon chance.