Honda VTX1800 Ignition Switch Problems

[TCHeideman]

Hello folks, I am a newbie to this forum but was looking for some help. I have a 2002 Honda VTX1800 and am having problems with my ignition switch (will not engage the starter at times). I thought it might be a bad battery and got a new one but am having the same problems. Ironically, I had a Blue Knight Motorcycle Club meeting the other day and another member out of the blue who has the same bike asked me if I had problems with the switch!! He then told me about an old article in your magazine that detailed a problem with the Honda ignition switch due to corrosion in the connection with the headlight?? I was wondering if anyone had any info on this or can point me to the old article as I plan on taking the bike back to the dealership and demanding they replace this. My buddy told me that Honda is trying to hide this to prevent having to do a recall. He said the article recommended a relay with the headlight connection to remedy this problem.

Any help would be GREATLY appreciated. Thanks

Tim Heideman

timh@tiami.org

(313) 920-1962

[VStarMan]

I suggest you do a Google search for 1800VXT forum and I'll bet you get hooked up with lots of people who own the same scoot as you do.... Good Luck!

[Wolf]

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VStarMan wrote:

I suggest you do a Google search for 1800VXT forum and I'll bet you get hooked up with lots of people who own the same scoot as you do.... Good Luck!

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Or buy a Yamaha Star, right?

Unfortunately, one of the best people to help with this problem was recently banned from the board. Hopefully someone else knowledgeable on the VTX can help you out.

[moondoggie]

If he would have stuck to just answering questions like the above he would still be around, but of course he not could do that. You know the old saying "Everyone gets what they deserve"

Message Edited by moondoggie on 04-19-2007 12:23 PM

[ZRX4ME]

["Hello folks, I am a newbie to this forum but was looking for some help. I have a 2002 Honda VTX1800 and am having problems with my ignition switch (will not engage the starter at times). I thought it might be a bad battery and got a new one but am having the same problems. Ironically, I had a Blue Knight Motorcycle Club meeting the other day and another member out of the blue who has the same bike asked me if I had problems with the switch!! He then told me about an old article in your magazine that detailed a problem with the Honda ignition switch due to corrosion in the connection with the headlight?? I was wondering if anyone had any info on this or can point me to the old article as I plan on taking the bike back to the dealership and demanding they replace this. My buddy told me that Honda is trying to hide this to prevent having to do a recall. He said the article recommended a relay with the headlight connection to remedy this problem."

Any help would be GREATLY appreciated. Thanks

Tim Heideman

timh@tiami.org]

Hello! I had a conversation with Tim, read the article in October issue of CW, Service, Feedback Loop page 103.

The problem is headlamp on/off contacts inside the starter pushbutton switch arcing, corroding, overheating and melting the switch. End result--no headlamp and/or no starter motor action.

I have a similiar issue with my '81 Honda CB750K at times, havent replaced the switch yet.

It appears Honda uses the starter pushbutton switch as a headlamp bypass during crank, while others use a separate delay relay.

Terry

Message Edited by ZRX4ME on 04-19-2007 09:25 PM

[Honda919Rider]

I've replaced a couple of the switches, they wear out.

What really shortens the life is when people pressure wash the machine and spray that specific area, see it all the time, water in the switches.

I've covered a few under warranty, if the warranty was in effect.

Extended warranty covers it, as it should.

Oh, and yes, the switch does also cut power to the headlight when depressed -

(Below is an example only, not VTX specific)

Message Edited by Honda919Rider on 04-23-2007 10:21 AM

[TCHeideman]

Terry, would it be possible to send me a copy of the article you were telling me about. I can't find it online anywhere. Could you scan it and email it to me. I want to have something in hand when I go to my Honda dealer where I bought the bike.

Thanks

Tim

timh@tiami.org

(313) 920-1962

[TCHeideman]

Oh, I forgot - when you replaced your switches, did you include a new relay to delay power to the headlamp?? If so, could you tell me where I can get that or does it come with the replacement switch? Is it difficult replacing the switch??

Thanks again

Tim