Hi there, thanks for the add. I ride a 14 America. Does anyone else have problems with the starter relay not working when it’s cold? The bike lives outside ant this is the 4th time it’s let me down in cold weather.
Chris Bryan. Welcome to the family. How many miles on the bike as a low miles bike will still be freeing up. Check Battery condition and if holding a good charge. And check all the connectors and terminals to make sure they are clean and tight. But usually the culprit turns out to be a battery lacking a bit Joe.
You don't say "How cold" as extra cold , or prolonged period at "0" freezing point can stop a battery from being able to "chemically" respond (wake) and produce any electricity !! The relay can't operate if the above mentioned is happening ! Acid freezes at below Zero ! But prolonged period of time at Zero'ish temperatures can make the acid and water it is mixed/suspended in , sluggish. So V's might read 12 but the battery is essentially in suspended animation , Well Asleep !!
A good way round this problem . Take the battery out. Put some absorbent material around it ! Push it back in place. On a cold morning , when you have your morning Cuppa , pour the excess hot water from the kettle over your battery. By they time you finish your Tea/Coffee , the battery will be as ready to go as you are...
In Australia we have the opposite problem , In A Hot Summers Day ! After a long ride on a 40° + day , the starter motor or relay , if mounted behind the engine , can get Too hot ! The required Current to turn the motor over in these EXTRA hot conditions can be Far too much , not enough available in a small bike battery. Only options available pour a Cold Kettles worth of water , or , if in the "Bush" piss on it Not done the latter meself but have seen it
Thanks for all the reply’s. There is no problem with the battery it produces at least 12 volts. I think it maybe the connections to the starter relay. Now I’ve soldered some new wire direct to the relay and put bullet connectors on the original. Started straight away. The temperature was only about -2•c. Let’s wait for the next frosty morning. Thanks again.