Electric Starter on a 1983 suzuki gs550es?

Question

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Bought a 1983 Suzuki GS550ES from my uncle a couple months ago, did all the proper maitenance work to it.. went for a rip today and the bike stalled on me.. When I first bought the bike I drained about 99% of the gas and filled it with premium. Think the old gas that was left in the tank would destroy the new gas?

Anyways, after the stall I attempted to start it again, but got no response from the electric starter.. no noises, sounds, nothing.. I pulled on my clutch a few times hoping it would start but nothing.. luckily I wasnt far from home and I wheeled it back.

Another thing is the "side stand" light never goes off. should I just remove the sensor?

its more like a 3 part question, If anyone knows anything about these issues please let me know! TIA!

Answer 1

Don't spend too much time worrying about the little bit of old gas left behind in the tank. If it started and ran well for abit you are fine, even if there was old gas in the carb it should have been run thru by now.  The new gas will dilute the old stuff and will work just fine.  Now as to why your bike died, it could be your side stand switch, all newer bikes will kill the engine while the bike is in gear with the side stand down, think of it like the kill switch on the bars.  I'm not sure your bike has this safety feature though, but if does bypass it at the side stand or fix the problem correctly your call.  Does your headlight light up, if not your problem is in the charging system, and your little ride used the battery up, I have seen this problem with a 79 gs550.  So to summarize if the headlight works bypass the sensor if not figure out your charging problem, if your want to just swap parts until you find the right one first check the wiring then swap the rectifier.  Good luck and hope this helps.