check those battery connections

[peruano]

The typical battery installation for a Vulcan 500 involves a two-stage attachment of the battery cables to the battery posts. Since this arrangement often results in a loose connection, and the intermittent stalls etc that such connections cause, this detailed explanation if offered with the hope of assisting Vn 500 owners in rectifying the problem.

I experienced a variety of symptoms, but in the end, I could start the bike, let it run for 3 minutes, have it die, tip it from side to side, or roll it forward and it would start. All of these movements were establishing temporary contact in the battery connections and then disrupting them again at the slightest movement or vibration. If you have erratic problems check this source.
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Battery poles have fasteners attaching an L shaped bracket to the battery post. This is attached by a horizontal bolt (fastener) that is not easily visible unless the battery is lifted from the battery box. This L shaped bracket is subsequently attached to the battery cables by a vertical bolt (fastener) visible from the top of the battery. It is not enough to check that the vertical fasteners are tight; often it is the horizontal fasteners, not as easily accessible, that are loose and the source of electrical problems.
In brief if you suspect an erratic electrical supply, check the battery connections, but . . . be sure and check all four (the two on top and the two on the side of the battery posts.). Remember battery posts are lead and thus soft. Do not overtighten, but once treated with locktite and tightened they should stay functional. I apologize for the excessive detail, but we have all seen this problem explained but not completely understood by the person standing on the side of the road, or frustrated with their new ride. Ride on, and safely. Tom

[sfair]

Excellent post. Well done!!!

[fastpakr]

Yep, great job!

[MN-Rider]

Originally Posted by sfair

Excellent post. Well done!!!

Sticky worthy?

[MichelleS]

Definitely Sticky worthy! I've just had to fix this problem on my bike a couple days ago when it died in the rain! Those bottom screws are a royal pain to get at!

[MN-Rider]

Originally Posted by MichelleS

Definitely Sticky worthy! I've just had to fix this problem on my bike a couple days ago when it died in the rain! Those bottom screws are a royal pain to get at!

You got it!

[peruano]

Thanks folks, Let me know if you can suggest word or graphic changes that will clarify the subject. Its the Power of Powerpoint. Tom

[Zim_the_Giant]

I'm still new to motorcycles, and didn't realize just how important the battery connections are to check. I thank you very much for the detailed instructions and graphic. I think I'll actually go check them now.

[Blaine]

Excellent post! Glad to see it a "sticky"

[GeorgiaRider]

Thanks Peruano. I had battery connection issues on my new bike and they fixed it by tightening the places you mention (#2). I had a hard time understanding where they were, but now I know. Greatly appreciate you explaining it for us.