Multiple issues, maybe linked, maybe not.
The bright-light indicator (blue bulb) stopped working a few weeks ago, but now it comes on once in a while. This makes me think some wiring is loose. (I know nothing about the wiring).
Tonight (20 miles from home) I discovered the headlight was out. After twiddling the wires behind the fairing with no luck I drove home with only a bright light. Neither the headlight or the amber bottom light came on.
At home I started messing with the wires again and next thing I knew, the amber light was on. Strange. But it only came on once.
I can't tell without seeing a diagram of the original bulb if the bulb is really burnt out or if the wiring is just messed up. (possibly from my locking the handlebars nightly with a chain which travels near the headlight wiring behind the fairing). The logical thing to do would be replace the bulb, which I will do tomorrow. But if it sounds like it's the wiring, someone stop me.
Also I'm not sure the quickest way to replace the headlight my faired bike, as far as removing cowling parts. Does anyone know the easiest way to do this?
Thanks
Kyle
Sounds like the filament is broken but still makes contact at times. I would replace the bulbs and see if the problem continues. At least you will have one possibility eliminated.
Yes! It was so easy. I guess this is such an advanced mechanical procedure that no one has gotten the courage to try it before. Well I went to NAPA today and did it, all by myself. It took me about 10 minutes.
How to replace the headlight and pilot light bulbs on a faired GS500F:
It's not necessary to remove any fairing pieces. Everything can be done from behind the fixtures.
12 volt 55/60watt H4 Headlight:
1. Work the plug free from the back of the headlight and remove it.
2. Peel off the rubber molded piece that protects the socket
3. Undo the metal spring that holds the bulb in. It has a latch on the right side.
4. Remove and replace light bulb without touching glass, and line up the back end of the bulb so the middle fin is on top, and fits securely in the fixture.
5. Replace parts in reverse order.
4 watt Pilot light:
1. Squatting in front of the bike, reach under the headlight assembly.
2. Remove the rubber cap that protects the fixture.
3. Grab the rubber casing that holds the bulb and gently work out the whole thing. The rubber casing will pop out of the hole.
2. Remove and replace bulb.
I searched GStwins and also Googled this topic for a long time last night and I couldn't find anything. So now this post is the definitive source on the topic.
Woot
Kyle