Neutral Indicator Switch

[dmoore]

Greetings Folks. Does the GS500 have a common problem with a faulty neutral switch? It's location is a pretty dark and dingy place. I'm wondering if the contacts get dirty causing the switch to fail. I'd like to get some input before I go pulling it out.

Thanks.

Dennis

[Kookas]

Not more than, say, the kickstand switch, surely? I've never cleaned it or given it more than a quick glance on either my current '07 F or my last '94 E, and haven't had any issues with it (or the kickstand switch).

[Nudie]

The neutral "switch" is actually a contact that is grounded once the gear drum is in the neutral position. It's not like a side stand switch or the switch on the front brake lever. It all happens inside the gearbox and if it's getting dirty you have some serious engine oil problems. I'd suggest that if you're having issues with your neutral light, then it may be wiring. Doesn't hurt to get your hands dirty and pull it out to have a look at it. Make sure you don't lose the o ring though.

[dmoore]

Thanks for the reply. I removed the switch and tested continuity in the wiring. It's good. But I don't know if the switch body itself is faulty. I'm not sure if there's any way to test it. There are grooves on the contacts but they weren't dirty at all. The grooves might be deep enough to prevent a clean contact. I intend to test the remaining wires that lead to the diodes and the ignitor. If they all check out I'll get a new neutral switch.