bench testing solenoid

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Apr 7, 2017 | 09:22 AM

shopnut

Thread Starter

6th Gear

Joined: Feb 2017

Posts: 10

Likes: 0

From: arkansas

bench testing solenoid

I have a 1986 FLST and one day the solenoid wouldn't engage. Does anyone know how I can bench test a solenoid? I jump the solenoid while in the bike and nothing. But would like to test off the bike to rule it out. I pulled it off and using jumper cables I hooked the ground up to the body of the solenoid and put the positive on the large post and tried to jump it and nothing. Is that the only way to bench test one? The battery is at 13.5 volts.

Last edited by shopnut; Apr 7, 2017 at 09:25 AM.

Apr 7, 2017 | 09:39 AM

Labrador

Road Master

Joined: Jan 2017

Posts: 1,129

Likes: 505

From: Illinois

That's how I've tested automobile starters. Sounds like you are doing it right and that the solenoid is probably bad.

Apr 7, 2017 | 05:06 PM

hdbob2006

Stellar HDF Member

Joined: Jan 2013

Posts: 3,466

Likes: 425

From: Illinois

Load test the battery.

Apr 7, 2017 | 05:26 PM

TriGeezer

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: May 2012

Posts: 32,934

Likes: 36,027

From: Carlsbad, CA

If the battery can illuminate the lights to the standard brightness, then it has enough capacity to engage the solenoid. If so, then based upon your test the solenoid is toast.