For some strange reason the main fuse on my Honda Rebel keeps blowing. I’ve tried looking for the cause, but I’m having no luck. Please help!
Response
For me, it turned out to be a problem with the headlight wiring. After replacing it with a proper 3-prong plug and fixing the wiring setup, the fuse stopped blowing.
Solutions that Worked for Users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Approx. Cost (USD) | Approx. Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Check and Correct Headlight Wiring | 1 | $20 (for wiring) | 30-45 |
| Inspect Wiring Under Rear Fender | 1 | $0 | 20-30 |
| Trace All Wires in the Circuit | 1 | $0 | 15-25 |
Symptoms
- Main fuse repeatedly blowing
- Loss of power to the bike
- Electrical components not functioning
Possible Causes
- Faulty or improper wiring, especially in aftermarket installations
- Wires grounding out against the frame
- Damage to wiring insulation
Solutions that Worked
1. Check and Correct Headlight Wiring
What I Did: Replaced the headlight wiring with a proper 3-prong plug and corrected the wiring setup. Outcome: The fuse stopped blowing, and the headlight worked perfectly. Personal Experience: After noticing my headlight acting up, I discovered the wiring was all wrong. Fixing it solved my fuse issue. Estimated Cost: $20 (for wiring) Time Needed: 30-45 minutes
Detailed Steps:
- Inspect the headlight wiring for any improper connections or damage.
- Replace any faulty wiring with a proper 3-prong plug setup.
- Ensure all connections are secure and properly insulated.
- Test the headlight and check if the fuse holds.
Handy Tips:
- Be sure to disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.
- Use electrical tape or heat shrink tubing to insulate connections.
Expert Tip: Always double-check aftermarket installations, as improper wiring can often lead to electrical issues like blown fuses.
2. Inspect Wiring Under Rear Fender
What I Did: Checked under the rear fender for any wiring damage caused by tire scuffing. Outcome: Found and fixed a wire that was grounding out, stopping the fuse from blowing. Personal Experience: A thorough inspection revealed a hidden issue under the fender. Estimated Cost: $0 Time Needed: 20-30 minutes
Detailed Steps:
- Remove the seat and rear fender to access the wiring.
- Inspect all wires for damage, focusing on areas close to the tire.
- Repair or replace any damaged wires and ensure proper insulation.
- Reassemble and test the bike.
Handy Tips:
- Use a flashlight for better visibility in tight spaces.
- Be gentle when removing and reattaching the fender to avoid any additional damage.
Expert Tip: Regular inspections of hidden areas like under the fender can prevent unexpected electrical issues.
3. Trace All Wires in the Circuit
What I Did: Traced all wires in the circuit of the blown fuse to check for fraying or contact with the frame. Outcome: Identified and fixed a wire that was causing a short. Personal Experience: Patience and attention to detail were key in finding the elusive short. Estimated Cost: $0 Time Needed: 15-25 minutes
Detailed Steps:
- Identify the circuit where the fuse is blowing.
- Trace each wire in the circuit, looking for damage or improper routing.
- Repair or insulate any problematic wires.
- Test the bike to see if the issue is resolved.
Handy Tips:
- Use a multimeter to check for continuity and shorts.
- Take your time and be thorough in your inspection.
Expert Tip: Electrical issues can be elusive; a systematic approach to tracing and inspecting wires is often the key to solving them.