tips on how to check electrics before you buy

[Electrics1]

Just wondering what's the best way to check the condition of electrics on r1150 gs before I buy. The bike had electrical problems , which im told have been fixed ie the haul sensors. Is there any point in getting a BMW diagnostic check, or lifting the tank and saddle for a visual inspection. I know very little about electrics so would appreciate any advice. Thanks

 

[Fanum]

If the Hall sensor hasn't been fixed, the bike won't run properly, if at all.

As for the rest of the electrics, all you can do really is try everything and make sure it works......including heated grips

EDIT....having said that, take off the seat and if possible lift the tank, and have a shufty at the general condition......you can't see most problems as they tend to be broken wires inside the loom, but if you see ANY scotchlock connectors, walk away )

 

[Ian J Hartley]

As far as I am aware, a diagnostic check is only going to tell you the condition of the engine and modules, and if fitted ABS electrics. It won't tell you the condition of the overall wiring harness and associated connectors.

They all deteriate through corrosion. Some of the wiring faults symptoms can be obscure, but usually relatively easy to track down. Most novices can usually handle simple wire repairs. Sometimes it might be as simple as cleaning the corrosion off a connectors pins and sockets.

The truth is you may not have any problems, though any make of bike can give you wiring problems at this age so I wouldn't be put off buying it unless you thought it was a basket case. I'm not sure looking under the seat will help much. Sure you can look in the fuse box, but most of the electrical connectors are under the tank at the headstock. They don't flex so any problems there is going to be corrosion.

Generally speaking if you can post the correct symptoms of a fault, there are lots of people on this site who will guide and direct you to a successful conclusion.

Ian

 

[Electrics1]

Thanks Fanum, I'll check everything's working and have general check of the electrics

 

[Electrics1]

As far as I am aware, a diagnostic check is only going to tell you the condition of the engine and modules, and if fitted ABS electrics. It won't tell you the condition of the overall wiring harness and associated connectors.

They all deteriate through corrosion. Some of the wiring faults symptoms can be obscure, but usually relatively easy to track down. Most novices can usually handle simple wire repairs. Sometimes it might be as simple as cleaning the corrosion off a connectors pins and sockets.

The truth is you may not have any problems, though any make of bike can give you wiring problems at this age so I wouldn't be put off buying it unless you thought it was a basket case. I'm not sure looking under the seat will help much. Sure you can look in the fuse box, but most of the electrical connectors are under the tank at the headstock. They don't flex so any problems there is going to be corrosion.

Generally speaking if you can post the correct symptoms of a fault, there are lots of people on this site who will guide and direct you to a successful conclusion.

Ian

Thanks Ian, the bike is 13 yrs old and looks to be in very good condition. The bike is being sold from a shop. I found out who the previous owner was and spoke to him. He is a bike instructor and told me he had no previous problems with the bike pnly the haul sensor, and recommended I buy it. I can give the bike a proper look over next week plus give it a good test ride. Hopefully all will be good. Thanks for your advice.