Backfiring and uneven idle

[mr. softie]

Try this... :popcorn: And yes I know all this has already been covered to a certain degree in this thread. ( back in August I think!!) I'm just trying to delineate a troubleshooting path here.

Bear in mind again the usefulness of a multimeter and a test light in troubleshooting electrical problems. A wiring diagram/schematic is also invaluable. There are diagrams on pages 205/206/207 of the service manual. The components can be easily checked for proper operation, and wiring for continuity and shorts etc. Check out the troubleshooting section in the service manual starting with page 177. Pretty straightforward. Sure beats wondering which part is bad, and a hell of a lot better than buying parts till you get the right one. Take it step by step and don't get frustrated. Think how great you will feel when you get it running like a top again!

Here is a shade tree mechanic way of troubleshooting: (for those without multimeter/continuity tester, or service manual.)
Disclaimer!! I have not done the following steps on my own bike as I have not had this problem. So I might just be talking out my a** :twisted:

1) Remove the kickstand switch.
2) Find the plug it plugs into in the main wiring harness.
3) Fabricate a jumper and connect the two leads in that plug. This should properly bypass the switch for testing purposes only. Your neutral light will probably stay on when in gear. More importantly the switch is there to prevent you from putting the bike in gear with the kickstand down, a real safety feature. :skull: The diode in the switch is to allow the neutral light to go off when the kickstand is up and the bike is not in neutral.
4) make sure you are in neutral
5) make sure your handlebar kill switch is in run position :retard:
6) try to start the bike. If it starts and runs ok when you shift into gear the trouble is your kickstand switch or its' wires ...replace it. This is the most likely culprit. :2tup:
7) If it quits or runs funny when you shift into gear the problem could be in your clutch safety override switch, or the wiring going to it, or some other problem..sidestand relay ... :??:



If this sounds like funky advice someone please chime in and let me know. :poke2: