No Headlamp

[hondaman]

I have a 80 GL1100 that has not had a problem with the headlamp at all in 14 years I have owned it.
Recently I was about to go for a ride, and the headlamp did not work. I checked the obvious, bulb, fuse etc. The horn, signals, and running lamps work fine.
I tested the fuse panel on the headlamp fuse, and have power to both sides. I pulled off the left switch assembly, no power to the Hi-Low switch.
So I changed the switch, everything else works as before, no headlamp. I started pulling the casing off the harness to trace wires and power. Any suggestions? What am I overlooking?

 

[kah92340]

The starter button, when you push it in it cuts power to the lights to get more juice to the Starter. I had that issue and I could wiggle the button and the light would come on, I replaced mine but I've read that some guys have cleaned the contacts and that worked for them.

 

[hondaman]

I do have a brand new OEM starter switch ready to put on. I picked it up because it fits my other 2 Honda's as well. I will install it next. I actually hope that IS the problem. I'll let you know how I make out. Thanks.

 

[AApple]

I agree...that's probably the problem. Mine has done that before, too. Everything but the headlight works. On mine, I just mashed on the start switch with the key off about a hunnert times, and it started working, and has been working fine for several years now. Might spay a little contact cleaner in it, or some WD40, and see if that takes care of it, before tearing it apart to swap the new one in.

 

[hondaman]

Boy, You guys nailed it right on the head. I just swapped it out for a brand new one, and when I saw the hi-beam light in the dash on, I knew that was the fix.
Thanks a lot guys! Now I have a lot of assembly to do. See ya!

 

[AApple]

arty: :yahoo:
I love it when a plan comes together!! :good:

 

[kah92340]

:yes: That's the beauty of this site with so many Bikes and Members it's probably already happened to one of Us. :builder: :moped: