Yamaha Virago 700 electric problem?

Question

1985 Yamaha Virago 700.
Okay. The starter solenoid has two big + terminals; shorting them will cause the starter motor to turn.
So will connecting the other little wire to minus. So, it looks like something in my motorcycle is not connecting the little wire to the - when I press the start button!

There's a bad connection somewhere, or maybe a blown fuse. So -- first, where are the fuses on this motorcycle?

Answer 1

There is no fuse for the starting circuit. As long as the lights come on when the key is on, you're OK in that department.
Sounds like the starter button (switch) is bad.
The handle bar switch connector - find the wire that's the same color as the one at the solenoid. Try starting from that wire just as you did at the solenoid. That will rule out the wire harness.
Open up the handle bar switch to see what 2 colored wires go to the starter button. At the connector, jump those 2 wires together. If the starter works then the switch is bad.

Answer 2

The early Virago's had bad starters and this was common until about 1992. The easiest thing to do is just replace the starter with a new on that has these problem ironed out. The basic bike was very good but the starter was a big problem.

Answer 3

Guardrail has given you good info, so, I can only add another suggestion. Make sure this bike doesn't have a clutch switch or kickstand switch in the solenoid circuit. If you can get a hold of a wiring diagram use it to draw out the entire solenoid circuit on a separate piece of paper then just check through it till you get to the problem.

Answer 4

Put 12 volts to the small screw to verify the solenoid is functional,otherwise the problem is between the battery,ignition switch or start button.

Answer 5

When all else fails read the book...Yam parts lists & manuals...might find something to help you here
http://www.dansmc.com/shopmanual2.htm