1. Having trouble logging in? Try closing your browser and re-opening it. If that doesn't work, try a different browser or device. The site will be updated soon to resolve these browser issues.
    Dismiss Notice
  2. Dismiss Notice
  3. Want an XS400.com t-shirt? Go to the store to order. Limited sizes and quantities available.
    Dismiss Notice

help with where a few things go since bought bike in parts im still lost like negative on battery?

Discussion in 'The Garage' started by gusto, Jan 19, 2023.

  1. gusto

    gusto XS400 New Member

    have no idea where this stuff goes or how if anyone has pictures
    bought bike in pieces with bags of index cards saying stuff so iv made it good this far but there are a few unknown plus its been hard. its 79 year

    1. negative wire on battery? without starter. kick only. i figure anywhere on motor or frame good? but where is original spot? is original on starter? dont know if bikes making me worst or better electrician. also where does black ground go the small one coming off harness?
    2. break light thing where it mounts exactly
     
    Last edited: Jan 19, 2023
  2. CaptChrome

    CaptChrome XS400 Addict Top Contributor

    Welcome to the forum!

    Hope this helps a bit. I am working with a 1981 bike, so there could be a few differences, but I think this should get you going.
    1. Battery negative lead is attached to one of the engine case bolts in the rear.
    Starter Motor Lead routing.JPG
    Black ground wire goes to left side battery box mount bolt.
    Wiring rear of battery.JPG
    2. I am not sure what you mean by brake light thing (front brake, rear brake, switch, light - I am not sure), so can't help with that. Can you post a picture of it as that might help?
     
  3. gusto

    gusto XS400 New Member

    thx a bunch. by break thing i mean little pull light sensor thing. its mount came in nag with right engine mount bracket n delema is does it go on top or bottom screw? ill probally be able to tell better once my break is back on but any pic would be appreciated.
    as for ground i have ground on case bolt where blowback box is so close by the other ground on frame screw. i think battery box might be a bit different as for 79 but most looks same.
    right now i have no spark... i got new battery so maybe it needs charge im hoping thats it. my multimeter broke so ordered new one so maybe then ill know more.
    im missing something that has 6 prongs n im pretty sure its not ignition box since on points 79. maybe is some flasher or ignition control? ill try in take pic of harness where im missing a component tomorrow when not rainy so much. iv studied wiring diagram n its a bit confusing as the 79 n 82 are different by points n tci. i take it i still need a battery to crank this or is there a diagram for no battery? i got kickstart only do you think its not kicking hard enough to do spark? anyhow this bike taking forever to fix. i recently sanded n painted frame copper so thats what iv done but put bike together n no spark so bummed. i might just try pay someone if it does come around soon
     
  4. CaptChrome

    CaptChrome XS400 Addict Top Contributor

    That switch is for the rear brake and it mounts to a tab on the right side of the frame.
    Carb install3.JPG
    Here is a picture of the switch installed - it goes in the mount from the top:
    Rear Brake Switch.JPG

    For the 6-pin connector, if you can't take a picture, just provide the wire colors as it can be sorted out from that info. Also, the bike does need a battery to run, so you are on the right path in getting that charged up.
     
  5. gusto

    gusto XS400 New Member

    ok i figured 6 prong out n now have spark. i had to put my handle bars on and 6 prong was on there as well as run switch. im thinking it was run switch not hooked up. thanks for above picture but i cant tell if bracket is on witch screw as there are two right there. it looks like your mounts welded? mine is either screwed up to one of the back right engine mounts bolts just witch bolt. i think it might just be obvious once i get break on there. anyhow this is special help so thanks so much. i gotta go buy oil next.
     

Share This Page