Motorcycle Repair: 2000 Yamaha Beartracker, steve lutz, electrical diagnosis

Question
Hello Mark,

I bought a 2000 Yamaha Beartracker 239 CC ATV over the last year and a half.  I must admit I don't ride too often, however, recently I went to ride it and when I turned the key to "on" the neutral light did not light up.  This wasn't the first time this has happened, but on previous occasions I could mess with a random wire and eventually it would turn on.  This time, however, after toying with wires I still got no light up.  I hope you can help me out with my problem.

Thank you,
Steve Lutz

Answer
Hi Steve,

I suspect a loose electrical connector, poor/corroded connection, chaffed wire, or other conductivity problem.

You'll have to trace circuits until you find the problem. I'd have to do the same.

Use a 12 volt test light and trace voltage. Check circuits for continuity with a multi-meter.

If you're not up to the task of troubleshooting, consider having a local shop perform electrical diagnosis for you. It may cost an hour or more of labor.

Visit "www.atvfrontier.com" This is a very good ATV resource.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively