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Electric issue GPZ 1100A2

Posted: Sun Jul 14, 2024 9:34 pm
Author: Skid Mark
I have an 1100 unitrak that usually is very reliable, Oil leak and starter motor issue aside. New Starter motor fitted and was faultless up to a few days ago.
I didn't get to ride it in about a week, but got out for a short run Thursday, it was slow start but when she fired she ran fine. Friday night I ran her again and after a short run to the shop, she was good and warm but almost didn't start after sitting for 5 minutes. Today, she wouldn't start at all. Battery almost completely flat after several attempts. I have most tools in work so, I had a plug on the shelf, I though I'd see if she is getting spark, otherwise I would need to get it on the trailer. I put a plug on no 4 lead, leaving no4 plug in and turned her. very faint spark, but battery was weak, so no clear indication there. I tried no. 1. I pressed the starter and the bike turned over very slowly so I released it not to fry any electrics. The bike kept turning with the starter button released, I hit the kill switch and no effect the starter kept turning, so I removed the key, IT KEPT TURNING! I had to disconnect the earth lead from the battery and have the scar to prove it! The lead was smoking by the time I got the spanner to it.
So, any idea what happened? Would the starter relay have stuck on due to over heating from trying to start on a weak battery.
I'm not sure this is related to the original starting issue or is it more likely caused by overworking the starter. I didn't think I was working it too hard. It certainly wasn't worked as hard as the 1100R I'm having more starting issues with?
Any ideas?

Re: Electric issue GPZ 1100A2

Posted: Mon Jul 15, 2024 3:58 am
Author: Philippe
Hi Mark

I suspect a wire coming from the plus pole of the battery that has lost the isolation at some point and is rubbing against other wires to create a "bridge" for the current to run freely to the starter motor.
I'm afraid you'll have to search a long time in order to find it if it's a small piece or you'll find it very fast when a part of the loom is fried.
Both cases are bad...
Good luck with the search.
A small advice: start looking near the headstock where the loom always bends.
GrtZ
Philippe

Re: Electric issue GPZ 1100A2

Posted: Mon Jul 15, 2024 7:38 am
Author: Skid Mark
Thanks Philippe,
I'm under no illusions that this will be a quick fix. A lot to be said for a modern bike that will just go at the push of a button!