Red Wire Bypass or Ignition Relay Bypass

[Al st1100]

Anyhow, the point being electrical issues can be tricky, and these relays both didn't just die one day, so there was some warning. Luckily I had a 4 pin relay that will work until I get a 5 pin replacement for my setup, and the bike works perfectly again. I also refreshed my memory on the design of the bypass mod and will carry another relay as a spare, but I realized a simple piece of wire as a bypass for the relay would get me home in a pinch. On the bright side, it was good practice for diagnosing electrical issues, and I figured I'd share my experience in case anyone runs into something similar. At least I confirmed all the work I did for the bypass was working properly, so that was cool.

My bike shows no signs of any issue with the red wire needing attention, but I do like the peace of mind and it was a fun project.

was the old relay marked what the max amperage was? There are 20a,30a, 40a and more.

 

[Smudgemo]

was the old relay marked what the max amperage was? There are 20a,30a, 40a and more.

It's 40A with the fifth leg to connect the tender charger.
http://www.cycleterminal.com/accessory-relays.html Sealed 12 Volt Mini Relays with Mounting Bracket
I also used the micro-relay on my ST and GS for aux circuits for USB ports and such. It's a really neat setup when you understand what a relay does, and a lot cheaper than buying some Gucci aux circuit to avoid canbus issues on the BMW.

 

[Al st1100]

It's 40A with the fifth leg to connect the tender charger.
http://www.cycleterminal.com/accessory-relays.html Sealed 12 Volt Mini Relays with Mounting Bracket
I also used the micro-relay on my ST and GS for aux circuits for USB ports and such. It's a really neat setup when you understand what a relay does, and a lot cheaper than buying some Gucci aux circuit to avoid canbus issues on the BMW.

I also use these, it saves on wire and time

 

[Sunday Rider]

I also use these, it saves on wire and time

What is that third prong for this fuse?

 

[Larry Fine]

What is that third prong for this fuse?

It ain't real.

 

[Sunday Rider]

It ain't real.

Ah, thanks!

 

[Al st1100]

What is that third prong for this fuse?

Main power to the center then each side can power something . I have a 15amp one side powers my gps the other side powers a double usb outlet. Available at any auto parts store. "The Micro3 fuse has 3 terminals and 2 fuse elements with a common center terminal. It's sub-miniature design meets the need for more circuits to be protected while utilizing less space. "

It ain't real.

Come on Larry , your showing your age

 

[Larry Fine]

Come on Larry , your showing your age

I guess I am.

I've never seen nor heard of them.

Where do you find the matching sockets?

 

[Al st1100]

I guess I am.

I've never seen nor heard of them.

Where do you find the matching sockets?

Don't know. They are used on newer cars. I caniblize some old fuse boxes and build my own .

 

[Larry Fine]

So, if a fuse blows, to replace it you have to also throw away a good fuse? Why does that seem wrong?

 

[Ron]

So, if a fuse blows, to replace it you have to also throw away a good fuse? Why does that seem wrong?

On the other hand, you bought a fuse and got 2! Just don't blow it!

I think I have a red wire bypass in my very near future. Went out yesterday to go for a ride on the black beater bike (it has parts and pieces of 4 black 1100s). I tried to start it and nothing. Turned the key off and pondered the age of the battery. Checked the time and realized that I've owned the bike about 5 years and never had a problem or changed the battery. Tried the key again. Nothing, not even the clock. Moved over to my Valkyrie and enjoyed the afternoon.

 

[Larry Fine]

On the other hand, you bought a fuse and got 2! Just don't blow it!

Or think of it as a regular fuse with a really, really handy spare.