Headlight problem maybe 80 XS1100SG

[vintagemcyclegu]

Does the headlight on a 80 XS1100SG work without the engine on or not. Thanks.

[TopCatGr58]

Not.

Engine needs to be running, charging system needs to be working, signal from ALT sent to headlight relay latching it turning on the headlight. It's off during starting to provide more power to the starting circuit, once bike starts, then headlight should come on.

T.C.

[fredintoon]

Not.

Engine needs to be running, charging system needs to be working, signal from ALT sent to headlight relay latching it turning on the headlight. It's off during starting to provide more power to the starting circuit, once bike starts, then headlight should come on.

T.C.

Hi TC,
the true answer is "depends"
If everything works as it should the headlight, as you say, is auto-on and can't be turned on with the key.
If the engine stalls after it's been running, even for a few turns at startup, the headlight is still latched on and will stay on until the ignition is turned off again.