is it my starter?

[mr.clean]

My bikes not starting,all the lights come on and i can push start it.When i push the start button i hear no sound,starter or the switch?

[Turbojoe]

Get a multimeter and check the kickstand switch first. I've seen many posts on various sites with people having issues there. Usually just a matter of cleaning chain lube gunk of it or a minor adjustment.

Joe

[mr.clean]

Hmm i wasnt aware that there was a kickstand switch.mine starts with it up or down.

[mr.clean]

Well it appears the switch has gone bad,it's not getting any voltage.

[Turbojoe]

Well it appears the switch has gone bad,it's not getting any voltage.

What year is your bike? I may be able to help you out with a wiring diagram if you don't already have one.

Joe

[Turbojoe]

Something else to check. Battery terminals for corrosion or adapters loose at the battery. You could get enough to run lights etc but not high amp draw for the starter. Here is a link with pictures from my bike. I've seen posts with some really nasty looking ones.
http://vulcan500.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=25&t=421

Joe

[mr.clean]

2006

[mr.clean]

Also if it is the switch can i grab one with wires from a 1998?

[Turbojoe]

I'll do some part number checking for you. It should be the same from 1996-2009. In the meantime disconnect the switch and check for power at the green/white wire on the harness side with the key on. How many volts? Check battery voltage at the battery terminals NOT the cable connections. How many volts? Then check AT the cable connections. How many volts? Also verify continuity from the black/yellow kick stand switch harness side wire to chassis then battery ground (key off). What condition is the bike in? Clean or lots of corrosion? You could easily have just a poor connection somewhere. Lets hope.

Joe

[Turbojoe]

OK. If it is the switch the part number is 27010-1223 and it's the same for the 1998 that you asked about. Around $40.00 from Kawasaki.

Joe

[mr.clean]

Ill get my uncls help with all that tomorrow.when we had the button assembly apart ge hold me to touch these two terminals with a flathead,when i did it started.He said the switch is bad and that was a bypass.True?

[Turbojoe]

Ill get my uncls help with all that tomorrow.when we had the button assembly apart ge hold me to touch these two terminals with a flathead,when i did it started.He said the switch is bad and that was a bypass.True?

True! I haven't had a start button apart but maybe you just have some corrosion or a small burned spot on the contacts. You may be able to clean them up with a pencil eraser or if extreme use some fine sandpaper. Sounds like you have an easy repair.

Joe

[mr.clean]

it looks like that part number you gave me is for the kickstand safety switch.

[Triangles]

46091-1655 is the part for the handlebar switch. it's about $110. If your switch isn't fixable look on fleabay for one from a '97-'09. A '96 might work. Kawasaki sold both versions of the vulcan 500 that year. just make sure it was from the LTD version if you find a '96 switch.

[mr.clean]

Well the battery is reading 12.4 volts,my buddy said thats way too low for a motorcycle battery.I tried to start the bike by push starting it or by sticking a flathead betweenthe 2 contacts.And when i tried that headlight dimmed greatly.Battery?