Ducati Sporting Club UK > Model Specific - Discussion, Technical Problems and Help > 998 / 996 / 916 / 748 > Bike wont start

[Rick_916]

I went to start my bike 916 today and there is nothing. The battery isnt flat but the red switch that you push in when I push that to start the bike it doesnt do anything. Could it be something in there like when the water dries calk builds up.
Has anyone had this problem before or any ideas ? I havent had this problem before.
Thanks

[Rick_916]

Oh I wish, my bike doesnt have the stand cut off, no imobilser, and the switch is on RUN also, can it not be getting a contakt in the switch, frustrating as its nice weather here in Sweden and I want to go for a ride
HELP ME ........

[nelly]

Assuming you are getting the fuel pump running? The usual suspect is the small white connector in the back of the starter solenoid. It's on the lower right corner of the battery tray. Get your finger behind the solenoid and push/wobble the connector. Should sort it?????

[Rick_916]

Yes the fuel pump starts when I turn the key on so I will try what you said Nelly. Thanks

[marksduc748]

isnt there a starter fuse??

[Rick_916]

No Nelly that didnt work, I have tried spraying connector spray in the starter switch but no go .....
Ummmm Plan 2 oh, I dont have a plan 2

[Rick_916]

If this is anymore help. I can push the red starter button like 30 or 40 times and then the bike will start ???????
Any ideas ?????

[nelly]

If you 100% sure the connector is OK, then it's either the solenoid itself, or the wiring to/from the switch.
Follow the loom from the switch and make sure it's not been crushed or trapped. Especially around the headstock area.
try tapping the solenoid while holding the starter switch in to see if that's sticking.

[Rick_916]

Hej Nelly
How do I know IF the connector is Ok
I have tried tapping the solenoid with the starter button pusshed but that didnt help.
Is there a way to find out if the solenoid is ok ??
Thanks

[nelly]

IF the connector is OK, it should be clean and making good contact with the pins in the solenoid. I guess this is a "feel" thing when the connector is pushed home.
Only way to check the solenoid is to replace it.
You could check voltage at the connector. One pin is earth, the other a 12v feed from the switch. If you're getting voltage there than the solenoid is at fault.