1997 yamaha timberwolf 250

[matw]

At a loss...

Runs/starts great when jumped across solenoid. Solenoid has been replaced. battery has been tested and is good. Doesnt start with start button but starter will engage when machine is running if button is pushed. Machine also is not charging.  Regulator has been replaced. Stator has been tested and passes all 3 phases voltage and open to ground all 3 phases.  Lights work great with machine running and battery disconnected. Starter solenoid relay has been replaced.

Any help or suggestion much appreciated. I do not have a wiring diagram or manual which i probably should try and get.

Thanks

[Nonampleasenoiwont]

I well let’s start with the won’t start issue. Is there a way for you to trace the starter button on handle bar and use a multimeter to check if the switch is good? Make sure the kill switch,neutral switch, etc anything that would prevent it from starting is actually disengaged.

As for not charging does the atv have a seperate voltage regulator and rectifier or is it all one unit? Also never underestimate the problems a simple bad ground will cause.

[matw]

starter button works when machine is running.  if i push the starter button while the machine is running, i can hear the starter engage.   The machine has a single unit regulator/rectifier.  yes, a bad ground or connection is often overlooked. 

[Mech]

It sounds like the key switch isn't letting power get through from the battery to all the ignition fed things, and it's not letting the charging power back through from the charging to the battery. But when the motor's running the charging's running everything that should normally be fed from the battery. so the lights and starter work.

Hope that makes sense.

[matw]

wow...thats great advice. Experience is a beautiful thing.  I will look into that tomorrow and i will post results of my investigation. Thanks Alot!!

[RolledIt]

Let us know.

[Tundra550]

Any follow up information on the final fix?

[cookmb11]

Bad grounds will reek havoc!