Jump to content

Headlight stopped working


bonio
 Share

Recommended Posts

Was working just fine. Then suddenly not. Now when I turn the key, just the little parking light comes on (yes, it has one; it's main function is to drain the battery when you leave it on "P"). But when I press the flasher switch (you can see why this is a great bike) both beams come on full power. So there's nothing wrong with the lamp or the wiring to it. There's no way to switch the dipped light off - the only light switch goes between dipped and main. 

Any ideas on how to hunt the problem down?

 

PS For anyone who's just read my tail-light-rescue post, I found out this problem before fixing the tail lamp, so it's not caused by something I've cocked up in the repair.

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Since posting, I've been reading up on thumpertalk. It seems a common problem is dirt or corrosion gets into the starter switch, and this affects the operation of the relay that kills the headlamp when you start the bike. A number of people said they had the problem, so that's where I'm going to start. After that it's check the relay, then the wiring. The only has one fuse, so that's kind of checked already.

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

I took the starter switch assembly apart, gave the inside a couple of shots of WD40 and happy days it's working.

Time get the MOT rebooked.

 

  • Like 5
Link to comment
Share on other sites

7 hours ago, bonio said:

I took the starter switch assembly apart, gave the inside a couple of shots of WD40 and happy days it's working.

Time get the MOT rebooked.

 

I suggest going back and putting something in there that will keep it lubricated.  WD40 can free things off but it's not a lubricant.  

Link to comment
Share on other sites

On 23/03/2024 at 08:16, bonio said:

I took the starter switch assembly apart, gave the inside a couple of shots of WD40 and happy days it's working.

Time get the MOT rebooked.

 

We have just developed exactly the same fault 😂. Of course, it's while we're on a bit of a tour. Have bought WD40, will check fuses etc. tomorrow.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

We still have the led spots and centre small bulb, at least.  Reading the Triumph forum it's likely to be a bad connector under the tank.

 

If not possible to fix on the road, I'm wondering about the feasibility of blocking out the top half of the headlight grille with black tape - so as not to blind oncoming traffic - and using the main beam.

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

On 23/03/2024 at 09:46, Angela Collen said:

Really glad you've worked it out, hope mot goes well

Haha, it almost did. I passed with an advisory marked "urgent repair" because the number plate is illuminated by a red light, not a white one.

When I got it home I took a look and saw what I'd done - I'd put the tail light on upside down, so the white light is shining upwards onto on the luggage rack instead downwards onto the the number plate. At least it's an easy fix.

  • Like 1
  • Haha 4
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

 Share

  • Welcome to The Motorbike Forum.

    Sign in or register an account to join in.

×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

Terms of Use Privacy Policy Guidelines We have placed cookies on your device to help make this website better. You can adjust your cookie settings, otherwise we'll assume you're okay to continue.

Please Sign In or Sign Up