XJ Headlight Electrical

[Billbobow]

Ok electrical gurus. I have pursued this as far as I am able.
My headlight won't work!! Situation - I have a fairing with headlight. I checked the plug and found strange readings. 4v or so on one pin with the bright switch on low. 4v onthe other pin and -4v on the original pin with the high/low switch on high. Ok, wiring problem. Started to check things, ended up taking the fairing off and uncovering the mess that is normally in the headlight bucket. Checked the wireing harnes headlight plug, same thing on the voltage. Started tracking that small wiring bundle - found it went into the speedo/tack/display cluster. Took it apart and off the bike. Wires go into the back of the display module - end of search. Don't know where to go next, don't know what in the display module could be a problem. Yes I did check the fuse and it is fine, also new bulb works fine on another power source.

Question is, naturally - what is wrong and where do I go next??

Thanks in advance.

Bill - Muskegon, MI (An old timer that doesn't post much anymore)

[John]

Was the engine running when you did your voltage tests? It needs to be as the light only comes on when the engine is running. What model is the bike? That we need to know before we can go too far with this.

[DiverRay]

John, He did say an XJ...
I would do as someone on the Yahoo board said, start from the battery and work to the light. My guess is going to be the headlight reserve lighting unit, the headlight relay, or the switch on the handlebar.
Remember, the engine has to be running, or started and then stopped with the kill switch and ignition left on in order to check the light circut.
Ray

[Billbobow]

Yes it is an XJ11. My light is on when the ignition is on. Drops when you press the starter. Checked the connectors with engine running and not running. Same result. Everything else in the fairing light wise works fine, side marker, running lights and turn signals. Believe it is the reserve lighting unit - bah - thought I might get another diagnosis - just don't like pulling the tank.

Thanks for the replies.

Bill

[DiverRay]

Bill,
That tells me you DO have a problem. The headlight SHOULD NOT come on untill the bike has been started for the first time. You will need to go through the wires.
I would start at the battery, but check the wires with a manual.
Someone has rewired the bike, or the RELAY is toast.
Ray