Topic: 1975 CB550 wiring questions

[Sprocket75]

Thank you! This is GOOD information that I really needed! I think you may have just solved my wiring problem. I was troubleshooting with the wrong impression of the start switch. So, why in the world would there be one position (#2) that has only the tail light connected to it? What a waste! Seems like it would just drain the battery. If it is fused, then I wonder if it could be isolated and then remapped back into the ignition circuit to supply auxiliary power to something in the run position as well? Maybe an isolated/dedicated power source for the ignition coils only. Just a thought.

[LesterPiglet]

As i mentioned, its a parking light.

[Sprocket75]

It all works now! Thank you guys so much! Now I can focus on cleaning up the wiring a bit. The only thing that does not work is the neutral light, but I tested the indicator and threw a ground to it and it illuminates...so the bulb is good. The issue is the neutral switch itself, it is not sending a ground. So, tomorrow I will try to take the side cover off and check the switch. The screws on the cover are stuck...and I do mean stuck. I have been spraying them with penetrating oil just about every day and then trying the impact driver on them...no luck. Not sure how I am gonna get them off. I also replaced the plugs and plug wires tonight. I used the NGK splicers along with the Accel 7mm copper core wires...and new NGK 5k plug boots. Works like a champ! She fires right up. I think the #3 cylinder is misfiring a little though, so I will have to check/replace the points/condensers if I can get the cover off. The spark is good, just think it is off a little. Fresh oil change tomorrow and a few other odds and ends, and I might just be able to take her for my first ride this weekend!

[TwoTired]

So, why in the world would there be one position (#2) that has only the tail light connected to it? What a waste! Seems like it would just drain the battery.

Something in the motor vehicle code, as I recall.

Must have a light for 30 minutes if stopped by the side of the road.  For emergencies, when stalled or out of gas.  Night safety, etc.
You can remove the key while walking to the gas station and leave the parking light on.

If you are slightly dyslexic and turn the bike off toward position II and walk away while at work, you will come back to a dead battery.  Probably no need to ask me how I know this.

[Sprocket75]

I repaired the neutral switch last night. Here are some photos I took in the process. Man there was a lot of gunk under that cover! The cover itself took quite a bit of time and effort with an impact driver. Heading to hardware store this weekend to get replacement TORX bolts or stainless HEX bolts. Anyway, the neutral switch tab was bent, which is why I had no neutral indicator. I bent it back into shape, cleaned it up and reinstalled it. While I was in there, I also wiped out and cleaned up a little bit inside the sprocket area. Compressed air works wonders. Reinstalled everything and TAAADAA! Neutral light works now! Its the little things guys. I also took off the stator cover, which still had the original paper gasket on it...it looks brand new inside of there! Nothing to clean... Getting closer each day to being able to ride her on her maiden voyage. See photos!