2 weeks and still haven't ridden...help!

[LimaXray]

Checking the aux ground and any other electrical connections is a good idea.  Just take half an hour and pull apart each connector and check them for corrosion or damage and clean them if need be.

I still think you should get the proper adapter and check your compression, if for nothing else but to rule out a lot of possible issues.   For example, if your valves are too tight and are causing this problem, it will show up in the compression test.  (you should probably check your valves anyway, it's a lot easier than it sounds, especially if you watch the Kerry video first)

[grasshopper4040]

so i talked to a friend and he's gonna hook me up with a mechanic he knows...and promises me a good rate.  i'm going to report my findings to him and see what goes on.  from what we've discussed, the problem should be 'relatively' minor, right?  at least no rebuilding/replacing of the engine (fingers crossed)...right? 
i know, i know...lazy man's remedy and hopefully i won't be banned from this site since i took it to the shop ...but i work 6 days a week and would ike to actually ride my bike to work (which is why i got it in the first place...aside from the cool points).  from what i've read about the gs500, their engines (properly maintained, of course) are "bulletproof".  i'm hoping it's an 'easy' fix.  easy meaning cheap of course.
i'll keep you all posted, and thanks for all the help.  maybe soon she'll be running and i can post some pics and buy some mods from everyone!!!!  wish me luck......
by the way...i did learn to take apart and clean my own carbs!

[Mandres]

so i talked to a friend and he's gonna hook me up with a mechanic he knows...and promises me a good rate.  i'm going to report my findings to him and see what goes on.  from what we've discussed, the problem should be 'relatively' minor, right?  at least no rebuilding/replacing of the engine (fingers crossed)...right? 
i know, i know...lazy man's remedy and hopefully i won't be banned from this site since i took it to the shop ...but i work 6 days a week and would ike to actually ride my bike to work (which is why i got it in the first place...aside from the cool points).  from what i've read about the gs500, their engines (properly maintained, of course) are "bulletproof".  i'm hoping it's an 'easy' fix.  easy meaning cheap of course.
i'll keep you all posted, and thanks for all the help.  maybe soon she'll be running and i can post some pics and buy some mods from everyone!!!!  wish me luck......
by the way...i did learn to take apart and clean my own carbs!

It really depends: if the compression numbers are low you're looking at a top-end rebuild.  Labor is pretty expensive in this case.  On the other hand you might just have small problem with the carbs or a short in the electrical system.  Let the shop diagnose it and then go from there.  Keep in mind good replacement engines can be found for $200-$400 easy. 

[grasshopper4040]

i'll let you know what he finds.  unfortunately, he's not gonna be able to look at it until sunday, so even more days go by without a ride...