95 K75RT intermittent starting problem

[KRKurt]

Hello all,

 

A week ago I hopped on the bike, started it up and drove 50 yards before it died completely - a 1st. It wanted to start but would not, complaining with a grinding starter sound. I thought there might be a short (when it died the battery light came on 1st).

 

I pulled and cleaned the starter and replaced the insulation and power post as well as the brushes.

 

After reinstalling the starter, when I turned the key on the red instrument lights would fade to nothing but, oddly, the headlight remained bright. I bought a new (30Ah AGM) battery since the other one was weak and presto the bike ran...for 20 minutes then died.

 

Now, when I crank it and it starts, the battery light comes on then the bike dies (after 2-3 sec). Once, all power dropped from the dash. But, on one try, it ran ok for 3 minutes until the battery light turned on then the bike died again.

 

I checked for sparks, smoke (shorts) and all visible connections. Fuses are good. There is plenty of fuel (it purrs when it does run); the spark plugs are 3 months old; it has not been ridden in rain for a long time (in Miami now).

 

I am now suspecting the charging system...

 

But I am stumped. Any suggestions?

 

Thanks!

 

[Dennis Andress]

I'm guessing...

 

The ignition switch could be dirty, maybe wet too. BMW used the same design across many models. I had problems similar to what you describe on a couple of bikes. There is a small set screw on the side of the assembly. It's might be covered with some kind of inspection paint. Anyway, loosen the screw until the electrical part slides out the bottom. Clean and replace.

 

Hope that helps.

 

Dennis

[KRKurt]

I came across this excellent troubleshooting guide that I recommend for any K75/K100 rider...

 

http://hrsbstaff.ednet.ns.ca/bvogel/K100/download/bike-wont-start.htm

 

hope that helps others...

[Dennis Andress]

Wow! That's a lot of good stuff.

[KRKurt]

Thanks...

 

...the ignition switch was the problem. Cleaning was not enough though...I had to replace it...all is well.