[jkgoldwing]

Okay, i think there are some big no no's here but let me throw this out. i have mentioned how much i love my old 1983 Goldwing. The exhaust system needs work as well as some carb work. i 've had to keep in on a battery charger to get it started every time. Lately even that doesn't work and my buddy has used a car to jump start the old gal. I read that this was a no no so we stopped this practice however, now the old girl will not start no matter what method is used. We can push start it and it runs pretty well. However, i am concerned that now, even if a car is used, it isn't turn the engine over to start. also, once you drive it, the starter will turn over but VERY slowly and then it will give it up. Have we ruined the starter by using a car to start it the last few times or could this still be just a really dead battery? I also noticed that the positive cable that runs from the + side to the relay is pretty corroded even under the insulation. Thoughts?

 

[AApple]

I'd suggest replacing the cable(s), and possibly the batt. too. The fact that you can push-start means the batt has enough juice to run the ignition system, and if it doesn't die on you once you do get it started means the alternator is putting out enough to fire the ignition and stuff. Sooo....looks like it's down to bad connections/cables, or the starter. Cables are much easier to replace....and cheaper, than a starter. I'd go that route first. Sounds like they need replacing anyway, if you can see the green monster growing on them...
hth

 

[detdrbuzzard]

check for corrosion on the battery cables and get a new battery. i jump start my bikes off the car or van every spring and have been doing it since the mid '70s. no different than jump starting another car and the same precautions should be taken

 

[jkgoldwing]

Battery

Hey guys,
i talked to a number of people here in my area and i am getting missed messages. The Honda place insist, of course, i have to get a HONDA battery from them...some of the motorcycle shops claim a battery is a battery and it doesn't matter. What are ya'lls thoughts and what would a decent battery cost?

 

[detdrbuzzard]

i needed a battery for my 1200 last spring and wanted it right now. the dealer had one in stock so i got it and went riding. when i got my '79 cb750f it needed a battery and the carbs cleaned. i ordered a big crank battery from battery mart. it was at my door in three days, no different than any other battery just as it would be for a wing. as long as its the right size battery it will not matter where you get it from

 

[AApple]

I am of the "A battery is a battery" group. There are some brands that may be a little better quality, for sure, but buying it from Honda doesn't necessarily make it better.
Just as an automotive battery, as long as it is rated with the correct cranking amps, if it fits, it will work.
I myself, haven't bought a scooter battery ever, so I wouldn't know what kind of pricing there is on them.

 

[Johnny R]

I agree that any right-sized good battery is just fine. I found that a battery tender, especially in the winter, is a wise investment.

 

[detdrbuzzard]

the dealer is just trying to make a buck off you as long as it is the right size for your wing it will work