Ask the Editors: Suzuki Starting Trouble
Unfortunately when I hook the positive battery cable to the positive lead it will not crank. This function worked previously. I think the problem may be that the neutral light isn’t coming on when it goes in neutral. I think the quad thinks it is in gear and because of that won’t crank. That’s my theory anyway.
Anyone have an suggestions to help me get it up and running? AlabamaDan
If you aren’t getting a neutral light even when the machine is in neutral, this could indeed be cause for the problem you’re experiencing. Namely it sounds like a problem with the neutral switch itself or in the wiring somewhere along the way. The neutral safety switch is tied in the the ignition system and prevents voltage to the coil at startup in addition to disabling starter.
Whenever an indicator light fails to function properly, the first place to always check is the vehicle’s fuse box. If all of them check out or your particular model is without, the next likely culprit to rule out is a pinched or exposed wire. A short somewhere in the system, especially on a vehicle of this vintage, is very common.
On the right side of the ATV, under the seat and following along the top frame rail, you should be able to locate a two-wire connector (possibly blue and a blue & black striped wire). Check to make sure this is connected snugly and that it and the wires aren’t corroded or exposed.
If this checks out, follow your way toward the gearbox. Here you will find the neutral wires coming out of a plug on the top. If you’re handy with a multi-meter, you should be able to diagnose the functionality of the switch just by placing your leads on the wires where they mate with the external connectors. While we certainly don’t recommend this, you could theoretically bypass the switch itself at this point to test your theory.
Our best guess, however, is that the neutral safety switch itself has gone bad. eBay or any Suzuki OEM dealership should have the part.
