Won't Start - Completely Dead

Post here if your problem does not fit one of the above topics or if you don't know what's causing you grief. Let us help you solve your problem.
Batetheskate
Posts: 3
Joined: Wed Apr 20, 2016 2:52 pm
I ride: 2009 red Vulcan 500 LTD

Won't Start - Completely Dead

Postby Batetheskate » Wed Apr 20, 2016 4:16 pm

I went to start my 2009 Vulcan EN500C, it turned over for a split second and then completely died. No power or juice whatsoever. No lights, horn, etc. (as if it had no battery at all). Theses Tennessee back roads are calling me - so any help or advice would be GREATLY appreciated.

Background ....
Bike has just under 5,800 miles
Battery reads good at 12.65v (18 months old - maintenance free gel type)
Battery terminals are clean and tight
I've already been out riding several times this season with no indications of battery (or any other) problems
All fuses have been checked - none where bad (lncluding the 30 amp main fuse)
Already swapped ignition switch (waste of time and money)

Thanks for any insight you might have,
Batetheskate (TN)

Batetheskate
Posts: 3
Joined: Wed Apr 20, 2016 2:52 pm
I ride: 2009 red Vulcan 500 LTD

Re: Won't Start - Completely Dead

Postby Batetheskate » Mon Apr 25, 2016 5:03 pm

Well don't I feel stupid! Turns out it was the battery after all. The volts were good (12.65) but the amps were zero! So much for those maintenance-free gel types - it lasted less than a standard type.

User avatar
Triangles
Site Admin
Posts: 819
Joined: Sun Dec 27, 2009 10:35 pm
I ride: '94 Black Cherry Vulcan 500, '06 Candyfire Red Vulcan 500 LTD
Location: Toledo Ohio
Contact:

Re: Won't Start - Completely Dead

Postby Triangles » Wed Apr 27, 2016 6:04 pm

I've heard bad things about gel batteries similar to your story. I'd recommend you look for an AGM (absorbed glass mat) battery. Like GEL they are maintenance free but supposedly last longer than the stock flooded type batteries. I picked up a MotoBatt MB12U from amazon in November 2014. I never charged it and never put it on a battery tender over winter. It's still young at about 1.5 years old. I also like that it has extra battery terminals for accessories.
ImageImage

Batetheskate
Posts: 3
Joined: Wed Apr 20, 2016 2:52 pm
I ride: 2009 red Vulcan 500 LTD

Re: Won't Start - Completely Dead

Postby Batetheskate » Fri Apr 29, 2016 2:33 pm

Thanks! Unfortunately I already replaced it with a stock battery before I had a chance to see your reply. But I'll definitely keep this in mind when the time comes again. BTW - I really like this forum a lot - good stuff and good people!


Return to “General Troubleshooting”

Who is online

Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 1 guest