Hi all,

The indicators on my GS500 are behaving very erratically. When I switch the ignition to on, if I turn either indicator on I'll get one blink then nothing. Start the engine, still nothing. Turn engine off, turn ignition on, maybe one blink maybe nothing.

I've checked that the battery connections aren't loose, but beyond that I've no idea where to start.

I'd take it back for repair under warranty, but that's a 200km round trip.

Any ideas?

A user on another forum suggested replacing the relay. This is probably within my mechanical capabilities. Does it sound like something that would solve the problem?

Given the lights do actually come on its unlikey to be an open circuit or faulty switch and most probably is the relay.
There is a very simple way to test it.

Remove the relay and connect the 2 terminals (orange and light blue cables) in the plug together with a bent paperclip....dont worry it wont harm anything, then flick the switch between left and right, the front and rear lights on each side should illuminate without flashing. If they come on as described the relay is faulty.

Thanks Sledge - will try that. 

Quote from: sledge on January 13, 2008, 09:00:28 AM
Given the lights do actually come on its unlikey to be an open circuit or faulty switch and most probably is the relay.
There is a very simple way to test it.

Remove the relay and connect the 2 terminals (orange and light blue cables) in the plug together with a bent paperclip....dont worry it wont harm anything, then flick the switch between left and right, the front and rear lights on each side should illuminate without flashing. If they come on as described the relay is faulty.

Fan-frigging tastic! Many many thanks Sledge - followed your instructions, it did exactly as you said - lit up solid, each side in turn!
Will now traipse down to the auto supply and see about getting a replacement     

My man Sledge is like that. A fine outstanding citizen! 

You should buy him a pint or twelve the next time you see him. 

Oh wait. Did I mention he is in the UK?

A pint of english beer?! I wouldn't wish that upon my worst enemy!

I rang my dealer (the bike being new) and he wanted me to ride the thing down (I'm in the country, a 200km round trip) for him to check it. I cracked the shits a) because it would be dicey legally to ride without the indicators, b) what did he need the whole bike for when it was just the flasher unit.

Anyway, I got one from a wrecker for $15

I wont object to anyone buying me 12 pints of any English beer!, just dont expect me to be lucent and coherent afterwards.....hehe 

Doug? I would have referred it to you if it wasnt such an easy one mate