Electrical Gremlin

[Matt Chapter]

For a while now, my instrument lights haven't always turned on when I start my R65.  This was perplexing, but ultimately of no concern... until I realized that my tail light was doing the same thing at the same time.

All other electronics seem to be fine (my turn signals are out of commission, but I know where that problem is).

What would be the likely culprit? Loose ground?  I'm just speculating until I find time to get in there...

[Justin B.]

Run a quick jumper between the triple-tree and the frame, if the lamps come on then run a permanent ground.  The instrument cluster only gets a ground through the through the steering head bearings, IIRC...

[mrclubike]

Replace the Fuse holder assembly with a modern Spade type

Also Could be the ignition switch

They are the only things common with both

You park light is more than likely out also

[mrclubike]

Run a quick jumper between the triple-tree and the frame, if the lamps come on then run a permanent ground.  The instrument cluster only gets a ground through the through the steering head bearings, IIRC...

tail light is doing the same thing

They both have ground wires that go back to the main grounding lug near the voltage regulator

[Matt Chapter]

I think I have the original ignition switch, so that could be it.  Also it's been a while since I've cleaned my fuses! I'll have a look.

[georgesgiralt]

I would bet on the fuses.
Try to replace them... You'll be surprised.

[marcmax]

You need to get someone to give you a "gremlin bell". (Bad luck to buy your own). Legend is the tinkling of the bell drives the gremlins crazy and hurts their ears causing them to fall off you bike and become potholes instead.

[mrclubike]

This is plug and play
you just have to mount it and your fuse issue is  gone

[wilcom]

You need to get someone to give you a "gremlin bell"

Ya think that's real, Marc..... I had a cousin and her husband that had a bell on every bike they ever had. I never gave it thought til now

[BPT]

I knew about the gremlin bells from the Harley guys and thought it was mostly an HD thing.
But when I went to the memorial for Perry Bushong (local shop owner), everyone who rode in the procession got one, it was 90% BMW.

[BPT]

MrClubike - I think we've discussed your fuse box previously, but it's been a while.

Do you have that strapped to the tube above it?  Are those screws attached to part of the box or does that have something to do with its attachment?

[peteremc]

I'm pretty sure the gremlin bell is plug & play as well

[Matt Chapter]

I have a gremlin bell, it's on my desk!  Keep my laptop running in top form.