Stupid question but, need some help. I have a 94 FXSTC and it seems like the tail light isn't lit up as a running light. The brake light works fine but has no light on it when the ignition switch is turned on. Didn't start the bike, so does the bike have to be running? Is it a 2 position bulb and that function burned out? Any insight would be greatly appreciated!! Oh yeah, front turnsignals/running lights work fine, along with headlamp.
Thanks!!

 

I would replace the bulb...
when you turn on the ignition the taillight should illuminate...

 

It is a dual element bulb. One element is burned out. Change the bulb.

 

thats the response I was hoping for and thats what I originally thought, just wanted some reassurance! Will do that tomorrow...

 

ALWAYS check the bulb first. On bikes, especially on any bike that vibrate as much as an unbalanced EVO or older bike does. When the bulb is on, the element heats up (that's what makes it light up) and gets soft. The vibrations from the engine and pot holes in the street eventually shakes the bulb until the element breaks.
It WILL happen again, maybe not to the tail light, but its going to happen so always check the obvious first.
In the case of a tail or turn/run light not coming on when it should, 99.9% of the time its going to be the bulb.
Also get some dielectric grease from the local auto parts store when you get the bulb (BTW its an 1157 bulb your looking for) and put a thin coating on the bulbs metal base and inside the socket itself. That will keep any moisture that does manage to get in from attacking the metal parts and causing more serious (and expensive)problems later. If things look a little corroded see if you can find some jewlery or circuit cleaner (I like to use Tarn-X and a Q-tip) and get ANY corrosion out first.

 

You'll want to grab a couple of spares while you're at it. My son has a 94 FXSTC and it tends to go through these. You might also want to double check the mounting of the assembly. His has rattled off a few times.

 

thanks, replaced it today. And yes, the housing has come loose and I tightened that up earlier in the week. I will check for any corrosion in the outlet, but nothing looked out of the ordinary when I took it apart. Thanks for all the advice!

 

thanks for the tips on this stuff.