Kawasaki 750 LTD electrical problem (help?)

Hi folks!

I have an 82 Kawasaki LTD that ran fine until a couple of days ago.
When I turn the key the indicator lights still come on but starting it
is a "no-go"... Dead silence. We've managed to bump start it but it is
obviously misfiring. I'm curious as to how I can isolate the short and
turn this into a do-it-yourselfer rather than get dinged for
unnecessary electrical repairs at a shop.

Thanks in advance!

Denny

 

How old is your battery? Is it fully charged? Does the battery light
the headlight brightly for at least half an hour? Does the engine crank
if you jumper across the starter solenoid with a screwdriver? Check the
main fuse to see if it's blown. Check the position of the kill switch.
Check to see if any clutch or kickstand interlock switch is working.
Check the plug that connects the ignition switch to the wiring
harness...

 

My 750 did something very similar last year. The battery was bone dry
and I have no idea how it had been running. That's where I would
start.
Now, if I can only get my final drive replaced soon.

 

Start by checking your battery voltage. Chances are that it's
12 volts or lower. (Should be 12.5 or better). Check battery
fluid levels, refill and charge or replace as needed. Now
put it on the bike, attempt to start bike and see if it charges.
(Voltage should go up as charging system charges the battery).

It's also possible that you've got some kind of short or
drain on the battery but a failed battery and/or charging
system component is the most likely suspect.