80 GS750, Won't start. Where do I start?!

[matteapolis]

My buddy gave me this bike last year, and it was sitting in his barn for the last 9 or 10 years.
I've rebuilt the carbs, de-rusted the tank, fixed the throttle, got a new battery, had a new key made, but now it won't turn over.

Where do I start in fixing this problem? I'm assuming it's electrical? Could be a bad starter?

Need some help here. Is there a system of checks to identify the problem?

Thanks as always.
Matt

[Stahlgrau333]

Is your starter any good? Can you put power directly to it and make it spin? Maybe the starter relay has stuck after sitting for a decade? Again, try putting power to it, and see if you can make it click.

[Nessism]

Did you pull in the clutch before hitting the starter button?

[Stahlgrau333]

Did you pull in the clutch before hitting the starter button?

I feel like dumb*** for not even thinking about that one, lol

[Stahlgrau333]

Did you pull in the clutch before hitting the starter button?

I feel like dumb*** for not even thinking about that one, lol

[matteapolis]

Yes, I am pulling in the clutch to start it. Nothing.

Buuut, maybe these loose wires hanging down have something to do with it???

Heeeellllpp! Haha!

[Stahlgrau333]

Looks like clutch safety switch. Twist 'em together.

[mike_of_bbg]

Or follow the leads back to the headlight bucket and plug those two barrel connectors (the ones from the wiring harness) together.

[matteapolis]

I twisted them together, and nothing.
when I turn on the ignition, the oil & gear lights come on, so it's getting juice from the battery.

Any other ideas?

[Stahlgrau333]

Make sure that circuit is completed, and isn't broken elsewhere. Also check all your grounds. Starter or starter solenoid could just be bad, too.

[BassCliff]

Hi,

Check the kill switch on the right handlebar control. It should be in the "Run" position.


Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

[matteapolis]

While I am admittedly green, I do know which position the kill switch should be in.

Thanks.
And your website has been incredibly helpful in my previous repairs.

[mike_of_bbg]

Well it's time for you to break out the old volt meter and probe for voltage in various places. I'd start with bypassing the clutch switch on the other end of those wires and checking there (while pressing the button of course). Until you check the other end you don't know if they're even connected any more. Also check the two non-battery terminals at the solenoid. Maybe your solenoid or starter are dead?

[chef1366]

Do you get twelve volts at the starter solenoid (small wire)when pushing in the start button with the clutch safety switch bypassed and the kill switch on?