Last year my '99 1500SE started having intermittent issues going into reverse. Usually I could move the reverse handle back and forth and it would work. Last time I tried to use it, nothing. It's locking the rear tire, but the "R" light doesn't come on, and when pushing the starter button, the headlight flashes but that's it. I checked all the common culprits, but all seem OK. What am I missing?
GL1500 Reverse Problems
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First thing I'd check is the reverse lever switch, a common fail point. Left side Tupperware has to come off to get to it. You'll find the switch right behind the tupperware, actuated by the cam the reverse handle bolts to.
It is a 2 position switch, normally passes power from fuse 9 to the neutral light among other things, then when you shift into reverse sends power from fuse 9 to enable the reverse system. Absence of "R" light indicates reverse system isn't getting enabled. Having to move handle back and forth to get it to work indicates the switch was failing.
Cyclemax sells replacement switches, not very expensive. $15.50
www.cyclemax.com
It is a 2 position switch, normally passes power from fuse 9 to the neutral light among other things, then when you shift into reverse sends power from fuse 9 to enable the reverse system. Absence of "R" light indicates reverse system isn't getting enabled. Having to move handle back and forth to get it to work indicates the switch was failing.
Cyclemax sells replacement switches, not very expensive. $15.50
GL1500 Reverse Lever Switch
Goldwing, GL1500, Reverse Lever Switch, 35370-MN5-003, OEM Honda
You have to give more info than "the common culprits." If you list what you checked and how you checked them it will be much more helpful and more help will follow. Denver is right about the lever switch being the most likely issue.
To add to Denver's explanation if that switch fails (or wiring issue) you will have no head lights when in reverse
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Try sliding the rubber cover off of reverse lever. You will be able to see part of the switch mechanism at base of lever. I used to spray a little electrical contact cleaner in that area, and work lever up and down a few times. Do NOT use reverse lever for a parking brake. You will have to be careful not to get spray onto paint.
gumbyred
gumbyred
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Why?
Dave, If you spot an error in a post it seems it would be better to make an effort to let the poster and readers aware. I am not sure why you would just highlight the error. .
Denver,
I think Dbohrer was trying to point this out:
The reverse (not neutral) light is driven by the reverse module when it sees power from the reverse switch. and other parameters are satisfied.
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Never use the reverse lever on a 1500 for parking brake becuse it is what weakens the spring in reverse switch causing problems described. Better to use the engine compression than a small starter to hold bike anyway......but go ahead and use reverse lever for a parking brake..
gumbyredd
gumbyredd
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Now that makes sense. I have seen people say not to use it for ridiculous reasons like too much strain on the gears. Better not use reverse at all in that case. 1800s have no such lever and no such switch so I don't see any problem using reverse for a parking brake, in fact I use it on mine every time I leave my place to hold it on a slope while I close the gate. That is easier on the starter than shutting it off and restarting it every time.
Maybe I made a false conclusion. I just couldn't figure out why you just reposted Denver's post with "passes power from fuse 9 to the neutral light among other things" highlighted. It made me scratch my head because you added nothing to the post./ What were you trying to say. I must be missing something. Sorry.
Did you miss where I indicated it was for the benefit of other readers who might have a 1988 - 1992. Obviously you must have missed that.Maybe I made a false conclusion. I just couldn't figure out why you just reposted Denver's post with "passes power from fuse 9 to the neutral light among other things" highlighted. It made me scratch my head because you added nothing to the post./ What were you trying to say. I must be missing something. Sorry.
I don't want you scratching you head. I'll try "real hard" not to post in the future.
Since you feel I add nothing of value.
I deleted my posts, hope that might meet approval....
I still don't know what you are talking about. I really must have missed something...Oh well. If that's the way you want to be. 😕
Bike in question was a '99. I usually stay out of electrical troubleshooting on the '88-'92 1500's due to lack of documentation, they are different animals.
Dave B,
don't delete your posts. What you post has been very good in the past, and having it up, can help future readers.
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"88 and "89 models are different animals with two post starters, fuel pump relays, separate altitude compensation control, individual plug-in reverse diodes, reverse power control unit (transistor) instead of relays, starter relay B located to the left of battery instead of by brake pedal, etc. "90 and up models are virtually identical. All this info can be confirmed in the parts manuals, do not use service manuals as gospel for the 1500 as they were not always updated properly.
All this info can be confirmed in the parts manuals, do not use service manuals as gospel for the 1500 as they were not always updated properly.1 - 17 of 17 Posts
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