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Blown fuse

Posted: Wed Aug 06, 2008 7:32 pm
by Pipes
Hi,

I just got a 2001 Elite that runs great but is blowing the fuse each time after I ride. I assume that means there's a short somewhere but I don't know much about electrical stuff. Can anyone tell me what to look for or if there's a particular place I should be checking?

Thank a mil, Piper 8)

Posted: Wed Aug 06, 2008 11:09 pm
by SprEE*MP*
is it the right fuse?

Posted: Thu Aug 07, 2008 1:06 am
by mousewheels
Hi,
You could try to isolate the electrical functions vs riding with some static tests

1) Replace the fuse.
2) Turn on the ignition, don't start the engine.
3) Taillight is on?
4) Pull the Brake - Brake light on?
5) Left / Right turn signals - check each
6) Horn

If you pop the fuse on any of the tests - you have narrowed it down.

No popped fuse?
7) Start the engine
8) Headlight on? - Yes - good, it a quick stator charge coilcheck. No - check charge coil and regulator (some regulator failures take out the charge coil)

9 ) Turn off engine, turn ignition back on
you should see the taillight - if not - check fuse - popped? Yes - check regulator.

10) None of the above caught the problem? Hmm, maybe there's some worn insulation and intermittent shorting going on. Visually inspect harnesses where they rub on metal or other harnesses.

Posted: Thu Aug 07, 2008 9:30 pm
by Pipes
Hey thanks - good tips. I ran the tests above and noticed the front left turn signal wasn't working. Looking around that area I found about four pounds of mouse nest - and that's only a slight exaggeration! So I cleaned all that out and the wires are just chewed to heck - lots of copper exposed. So I'm thinking I'll take it in and get the wiring and turn signal fixed and get it derestricted at the same time. I tried but couldn't figure out how to get the plastic cover off of the handle bars. Located all the screws but I was afraid I'd break off the tabs if I used force cause it sure wasn't being cooperative. Thanks again for your help. Piper

Posted: Fri Aug 08, 2008 10:25 am
by mousewheels
Great - You'll soon be back to reliable electric systems!

I got a parts scooter from a barn. Of anything in the barn, including the barn itself, mice found the scooter a most attractive nest. They were in the front like yours, in the back, even in the airbox, which was missing the cover.

Posted: Fri Aug 08, 2008 10:31 am
by Pipes
No wonder you call yourself Mousewheels... :?