Kawasaki Concours Forum
The C-14, aka Kawasaki Concours-14, the new one :) => The Bike - C14/GTR 1400 => Topic started by: Slideways on July 09, 2013, 11:15:24 AM
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Has been running fine no hints of a problem. This morning press down the stove knob key and nothing. The dash does not come, on nothing. The red LED that flashes when the bike is off is still working, the battery has a full charge, the key fob battery is over 3 volts, the kill switch is in the 'run' position and the emergency-dead-fob procedure does not work. I'm stumped. Any help?
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If you're sure that the main battery and it's connections are good and you get nothing when pressing down on the stoveknob key with a good fob in range then it sure sounds like you have a stuck Kipass activation switch.
First try something easy. With the fob in range, press down on the stoveknob and let it snap back onto place by letting your finger slide off to the side. Do this a couple of times, maybe it'll jar the switch into operation.
If that doesn't do the trick then the next thing to try would be to unplug the gray connector under the black panel just to the left of the gas tank. If your Kipass switch is acting up then when you plug the gray connector back together you should see the same results as you do when you press down on the stoveknob, again, with the fob in range. See this thread for more info and what the gray connector looks like.
http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=6976.msg82841#msg82841 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=6976.msg82841#msg82841)
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Who da man?! CONRAD!!! :chugbeer:
The activation switch was indeed stuck and the let-it-snap-back advice was perfect. Thank you so much!
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I'm glad to hear that you got your bike started! :)
You may want to purchase one of Brian's Kipass bypass harnesses from the link above, just in case...
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Too easy. I prefer using a hammer.
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Too easy. I prefer using a hammer.
Not everyone has a washed up 'rapper' at the ready Jim.
(http://img2.timeinc.net/instyle/images/2012/WRN/111912-psy-mc-hammer-2-340.jpg)
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Not everyone has a washed up 'rapper' at the ready Jim.
SNAPPY COME BACK ;D
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Yeah, and it <might> just be that I can actually sell one now..... maybe. ??? They are located here if you are interested (some wiseguy is going to ask where they are located if he is NOT interested, at least I would):
http://incontrolne.com/incontrol_005.htm (http://incontrolne.com/incontrol_005.htm)
Brian
I'm glad to hear that you got your bike started! :)
You may want to purchase one of Brian's Kipass bypass harnesses from the link above, just in case...
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Not everyone has a washed up 'rapper' at the ready Jim.
(http://img2.timeinc.net/instyle/images/2012/WRN/111912-psy-mc-hammer-2-340.jpg)
Approaching junior Twit status, I see...
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Too easy. I prefer using a hammer.
Read my signature and you will understand my feelings about hammers....
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Approaching junior Twit status, I see...
I aim high but shoot low. ;)
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Who da man?! CONRAD!!! :chugbeer:
The activation switch was indeed stuck and the let-it-snap-back advice was perfect. Thank you so much!
To hell with Fred what's his name, we've got C! ;D :thumbs: :chugbeer:
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The activation switch was indeed stuck and the let-it-snap-back advice was perfect. Thank you so much!
This is a well known problem with the gen 1 (which you have). If you are still covered under extended warranty, you might be able to get them to replace the spring/etc in the ignition. If not covered, it might be expensive, but the dealer can get a kit to fix the issue (and supposedly has improved parts like are used on the gen 2.)
It could be a fluke, but if it starts doing it, it is likely to increase in frequency over time...
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The problem is not limited to Gen. 1 bikes. It continues through 2012 models. Kawasaki has 'fixed' it twice now, once was to clean and de-burr the switch stem and the second and current 'fix' is a stronger return spring. The number of failures has declined but they are still happening, at least as late as 2012, a year from which I have happy customers. <grin and frown all at once here>
Until a positive return switch is used the problem can and will occur, even if it is reduced statistically. That is not much comfort to the person stuck with the switch that stuck though.
Brian
This is a well known problem with the gen 1 (which you have). If you are still covered under extended warranty, you might be able to get them to replace the spring/etc in the ignition. If not covered, it might be expensive, but the dealer can get a kit to fix the issue (and supposedly has improved parts like are used on the gen 2.)
It could be a fluke, but if it starts doing it, it is likely to increase in frequency over time...
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Nope- can't sell any yet. I have an ongoing problem with PayPal and the resolution so far has been impossible. Again, my apologies to those trying to buy one of these; I am pursuing a solution with as much pressure as can be brought to bear.
I will post on that monumental day when a transaction can actually be completed. Mr. Paypal is very fortunate that I do not know where he (she?) lives....
Brian
Yeah, and it <might> just be that I can actually sell one now..... maybe. ??? They are located here if you are interested (some wiseguy is going to ask where they are located if he is NOT interested, at least I would):
http://incontrolne.com/incontrol_005.htm (http://incontrolne.com/incontrol_005.htm)
Brian
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The problem is not limited to Gen. 1 bikes. It continues through 2012 models.
Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeew! I thought it was actually/mostly fixed by gen 2.
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Brian- Can you provide a quick overview of what you Kipass bypass does and how it works? Assuming we still need to use the stove knob and fob.
Thanks
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Little update:
This morning before I searched/posted for help I called my local dealer. At this point I got not clue as to what's wrong. The service writer had no idea and asks the service manager who also had no idea. After seeing that this is a known issue am I being overly sceptical in thinking the dealer likely knew just what the problem was but saw dollar signs and so decided to withhold info? Seems it would have been smart to suggest the easy fix as not only as a solution but a diagnosis and then suggest the switch be replaced if the easy fix worked.
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Yep, there is a pretty decent description here: http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=6976.msg82841#msg82841 (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php?topic=6976.msg82841#msg82841)
And yes, you will still need both the stove knob key and a valid fob. This work- around only fixes a stuck activation key, it is not a general KiPass bypass. Then again, we really don't need to bypass all of KiPass, the only part that ever fails is the activation switch. This is a 100% work around and will absolutely cure a stuck activation switch.
Brian
Brian- Can you provide a quick overview of what you Kipass bypass does and how it works? Assuming we still need to use the stove knob and fob.
Thanks
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To hell with Fred what's his name, we've got C! ;D :thumbs: :chugbeer:
Wanna buy some videos J? ;)
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Little update:
This morning before I searched/posted for help I called my local dealer. At this point I got not clue as to what's wrong. The service writer had no idea and asks the service manager who also had no idea. After seeing that this is a known issue am I being overly sceptical in thinking the dealer likely knew just what the problem was but saw dollar signs and so decided to withhold info? Seems it would have been smart to suggest the easy fix as not only as a solution but a diagnosis and then suggest the switch be replaced if the easy fix worked.
It's possible that the folks at your dealership knew what the issue was and just wanted to get into your wallet. It's also possible that they had no idea. Not all dealerships see enough C14s to know the ins and outs of them completely.
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on my 09, my dealer replaced the spring for the switch without it being broken and acting up at the time. had a previous issue though so i described that.
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Wanna buy some videos J? ;)
Should I be scared of what's on them vids C? :-\ ??? ;D
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Should I be scared of what's on them vids C? :-\ ??? ;D
Ya might. In another thread he said he was alright with some other dude riding his girl.
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Should I be scared of what's on them vids C? :-\ ??? ;D
:-X
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Ya might. In another thread he said he was alright with some other dude riding his girl.
:-X
;D ;D ;D
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It's possible that the folks at your dealership knew what the issue was and just wanted to get into your wallet. It's also possible that they had no idea. Not all dealerships see enough C14s to know the ins and outs of them completely.
SoCal dealer, been around for a long time and almost always has a Connie on the floor. Color me sceptical. ::)
The best part is after help arrived here via Conrad I called the dealer back and told him what I'd discovered just in case another customer ever called in with the same issue. I can hear'em laughing at me now....
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All you have to do is momentarily brake the contact on the grey wire and your good to go?
A momentary switch in series should do it, if I'm understanding this correctly?
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All you have to do is momentarily brake the contact on the grey wire and your good to go?
A momentary switch in series should do it, if I'm understanding this correctly?
You are understanding this correctly but most folks balk at cutting wires and adding switches. Brian's solution was much more elegant with no wires harmed in the process.
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You are understanding this correctly but most folks balk at cutting wires and adding switches. Brian's solution was much more elegant with no wires harmed in the process.
Based on his product it looks like there is a connector block nearby, I have the pin tools and connectors to remove and install this type of terminal connector, no wires would be cut. I would personally use a momentary switch for marine application.
(Should it ever become necessary)
Thanks
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Thanks for the kind words Conrad.
Yep, anyone can do what I am accomplishing with the bypass harness. Some people do not care to do it themselves or have the tools, etc., to cut into the wiring harness, and some do not like the idea of altering the bike's harness. But of course there is no magic there and so all of us can choose which way to go (purchase, do it yourself or ignore it completely). In fact I published the method to modify the harness way back in the olden' days so it is out in the public domain.
The only other thought I would add is that if the harness is modified to work around the stuck KiPass switch, and the KiPass switch does fail, I do not know if a dealer and / or Kawasaki would take any notice of the modification or not. My harness can be removed and the bike is completely stock in the event it needs a warranty repair.
Brian
You are understanding this correctly but most folks balk at cutting wires and adding switches. Brian's solution was much more elegant with no wires harmed in the process.
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Well Brian I decided to install one of your bypass harnesses. It arrived today. Here is what I think...
You call this an accessory?! I know accessories, I worked my way through college as a motorcycle wrench in the late sixties and early seventies in the era of things like universal fit sissy bars. Those were the days, accessories required fabrication, busted knuckles, broken tools and lots of cussing. I set aside a whole evening for the install of your bypass. I had a bottle of wine, tools, duct tape, Dremels and was determined to tolerate hours of frustration. I had the thing installed and tools put away before the wine was uncorked! And you call this an accessory...
Good one Brian. I did make it a little challenging, I only looked at the pictures but didn't read the instructions. Thanks!
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Well thanks, I think. ;)
If you want to try one that is really easy (no tools required), grab the low fuel warning eliminator. I can just about put one in in the dark, without a flashlight.
If you want to ramp up the difficulty, try a Rostra install. There is your fabrication, nasty words, frustration and I don't think anyone can do it in a evening, certainly not the first time.
Brian
Well Brian I decided to install one of your bypass harnesses. It arrived today. Here is what I think...
You call this an accessory?! I know accessories, I worked my way through college as a motorcycle wrench in the late sixties and early seventies in the era of things like universal fit sissy bars. Those were the days, accessories required fabrication, busted knuckles, broken tools and lots of cussing. I set aside a whole evening for the install of your bypass. I had a bottle of wine, tools, duct tape, Dremels and was determined to tolerate hours of frustration. I had the thing installed and tools put away before the wine was uncorked! And you call this an accessory...
Good one Brian. I did make it a little challenging, I only looked at the pictures but didn't read the instructions. Thanks!
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Well Brian I decided to install one of your bypass harnesses. It arrived today. Here is what I think...
You call this an accessory?! I know accessories, I worked my way through college as a motorcycle wrench in the late sixties and early seventies in the era of things like universal fit sissy bars. Those were the days, accessories required fabrication, busted knuckles, broken tools and lots of cussing. I set aside a whole evening for the install of your bypass. I had a bottle of wine, tools, duct tape, Dremels and was determined to tolerate hours of frustration. I had the thing installed and tools put away before the wine was uncorked! And you call this an accessory...
Good one Brian. I did make it a little challenging, I only looked at the pictures but didn't read the instructions. Thanks!
There's your problem! Any adult beverage should be opened and partially consumed before any work starts.
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There's your problem! Any adult beverage should be opened and partially consumed before any work starts.
I have so much to learn before I can call myself a master mechanic.
You are welcome Brian. Sarcasm, how every back handed compliment starts.
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I have so much to learn before I can call myself a master mechanic.
That's the spirit! You stick with us and we'll get you fixed up man! :)
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Well thanks, I think. ;)
If you want to try one that is really easy (no tools required), grab the low fuel warning eliminator. I can just about put one in in the dark, without a flashlight.
If you want to ramp up the difficulty, try a Rostra install. There is your fabrication, nasty words, frustration and I don't think anyone can do it in a evening, certainly not the first time.
Brian
Say what? How does it work and where do I get one???
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Say what? How does it work and where do I get one???
Look at Brian's signature :)
http://www.incontrolne.com/incontrol_005.htm (http://www.incontrolne.com/incontrol_005.htm)
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Look at Brian's signature :)
http://www.incontrolne.com/incontrol_005.htm (http://www.incontrolne.com/incontrol_005.htm)
Thanks! I guess I need to pay more attention to the details such as a person's signature. $50 seems like a lot but eliminating one of the most dangerous aspects of this bike... priceless!
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There's your problem! Any adult beverage should be opened and partially consumed before any work starts.
You're not gonna sell many videos if you keep giving the important info away for free. :P
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Thanks! I guess I need to pay more attention to the details such as a person's signature. $50 seems like a lot but eliminating one of the most dangerous aspects of this bike... priceless!
Which one was that? They're both $50.
If you ask me, the low fuel Alert is the most dangerous of them all.
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You're not gonna sell many videos if you keep giving the important info away for free. :P
;D
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Which one was that? They're both $50.
If you ask me, the low fuel Alert is the most dangerous of them all.
:thumbs: Exactly! The low fuel alert is DANGEROUS IMO. It keeps drawing my eye to it instead of the road. And trying to turn if off is even more dangerous. I paid my $50 and looking forward to eliminating it. Thank you Brian!
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It also attracts C10s and not in a good way.
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What are you saying- you want me to eliminate your $50? No problem- I have eliminated far larger sums of money that that.....
Funny thing about this but most people seem to really dislike the low fuel warning itself but are not particularly bothered by the loss of the range function. I am just the opposite; the low fuel warning is annoying but there is a way to sort of make it go away (it is clunky and leaves the warning light on though) but my real complaint was the loss of the range function. And at exactly the moment when I might start to care about the actual range left! So I am a little surprised that more people are not more vocal about the range function remaining. We all really do have different views of things and different ways to use the same device. At any rate, I have yet to hear of anyone that LIKED the warning or the loss of the range function so I guess we all have that in common. :-)
Brian
:thumbs: Exactly! The low fuel alert is DANGEROUS IMO. It keeps drawing my eye to it instead of the road. And trying to turn if off is even more dangerous. I paid my $50 and looking forward to eliminating it. Thank you Brian!
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I would love to hear that story from the other guy's (the C-10 rider) point of view. I'm betting it would go something like.... "So there I was, slowing down to make a right turn WHEN SUDDENLY there was this guy who thought it could park his C-14 in my saddlebag...."
;D
Brian
It also attracts C10s and not in a good way.
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His saddlebag was too small...I had to veer away at the last
minute second.