Hi folks,

First post here, please forgive errors

Using our Yamaha Kodiak 450 4x4 (possibly 2003-2007 model, bought 2nd or 3rd hand, it's blue!) this evening I had a problem. I think it's an electrical issue. When I put the bike into reverse to hitch up a trailer, the engine did a lot of huffing/stuttering but basically put no power down and went nowhere.

I switched the machine off, and the panel failed to light back up when I tried to restart. I sprayed some WD40 substitute into the fuse/connections area under the seat and the machine started for me again. The problem re-occurred before I'd finished my task.

I noticed also that the speed on the display was messed up, it could read 10kmph or 46kmph while not or barely moving, basically it was all over the place. I switched the headlights OFF and that seemed to settle the problem.

A short while later I engaged the 4wd, lights off, and the display went haywire again.

I'd like to fix this myself if possible, I've no experience doing so but with a bit of guidance and possibly some reading/video material I'll manage it.

Thanks for reading this

 

Clean the battery terminals and make sure they are tight. Clean the thick wires on the solenoid and check they are tight. The same for the main earth wires from battery to engine and frame. The solenoid on those Yams is prone to getting covered in wet mud that seeps under the seat, if it has been covered in mud, the fuse contacts may have corroded, check that they are OK.

 

Thanks Merryman, that's very useful info for a noob like myself, I have some contact cleaner plus dielectric grease on it's way to me so I'll follow up those points when that gear arrives here.

 

Did you get it straightened out?

 

Good question, I decided to have at it one day but didn't get far. Found most of the bolts are rusted shut, and the necessary socket/spanner sizes have grown legs and walked. However! I did remove a fertiliser spreading 12 connection and a sprayer 12v connection, as well as re tightening the battery connections. So far, the problem hasn't reoccurred. I'm not saying any of that caused it, but that's just where I'm at right now until I get some new tools and hopefully free up and replace those stuck bolts without stripping them.

 

Hi, curious if you figured out the problem you were having? I have 2004 Kodiak 450 and I have the EXACT symptoms (display showing incorrect mph, reverse not putting power to the wheels, then not starting, display not powering on with key in the “on” position).

I know this is an older post. Hoping you’re still around and willing to share you wisdom. Thanks!

 

He fixed it by tightening the battery connections. Read my first post and follow it.