Ducati Sporting Club UK > Model Specific - Discussion, Technical Problems and Help > 998 / 996 / 916 / 748 > Starting woes

[dukess1999]

Just a quick cry for help before asking the local shop to do the necessary.
Haven't used my 748 for a few weeks and battery is a bit flat. Had to bump it and the engine started okay but then stalled. However starter motor continued to turn and then Evo alarm went off and I couldn't disarm it. Disconnected battery and alarm eventually died. Connected battery again (sparks and smoke from neg- connection); starter turning without ignition being switched on. Don't want to persevere and cause more damage.
Any ideas gratefully received.

Iain C.

[nelly]

Sounds like the solenoid is stuck on. It sits just in front of the battery, with two thick cables attached to it.
Give it a tap and then see if it's OK. If the bike behaves, I'd suggest you fit a new one.......just in case.

looks like i've started a trend with these bleedin things ....

NEEEEXT ...

[dukess1999]

Thanks Nelly; new solenoid/relay did the trick.