bike died - help

[nikonvt]

So I was running late for a Dr apt so I figured I would get gas after.  I knew the tank was low but the Dr is a mile from gas. No biggie as I was at 159 miles on the tank. After apt, no start. Ran totally fine whole way there. Even shut it off then restarted to move the bike. Thought I was outta gas - nope. Trailored it home.

Battery is good.
Makes the winding sound when turn key on - that's the fuel pump right?
When I push start it just goes wa-wa-wa-wa but won't fire.
High 22 xxxviii miles.
Fuel pump replaced last fall.
Checked fuel filter and pump assembly - looks ok. Blew out filter.
Pulled plugs - don't look too bad but will replace.

Other than fuel filter - where else could debris be stuck from drawing low on the tank?

Thanks.

[pineygroveshop]

Are you certain there is fuel in the tank? 

[John Stenhouse]

Remember the old adage, most fuel problems aren't. Check the electrics first, is it getting a spark?

[nikonvt]

Yes there is fuel.
I don't know how to check for spark without replacing the plugs.  I pulled the plugs but the parts stores around here were closed when I went to buy new ones. How do I check for spark otherwise?

[Sin_Tiger]

First off I'm not a Girly expert, they're busy at the moment but lets try some more general stuff to try to narrow it down.

If you have a spare plug, any old plug you have lying around will do, stick it in the HT lead and hold it against the block or otherwise create a circuit to the block. With your battery good as it appears to be it won't be a problem leaving the plugs in the cylinders. You should see a spark, doesn't matter about the quality just to confirm the ECU is functioning, if not it's definitely electrical.

Assuming now you've confirmed it's electrical. Did you use the kill switch to stop it, that's a possibility if you did. Did you turn the bars hard to the left or right when you stopped, if yes then the wiring at the keyswitch is another prime suspect. Do a search as most of these issues have been covered already by those more knowledgeable on the Girly than me.

[nikonvt]

I don't use the kill switch so that shouldn't be the issue. The bars aren't hard to the sides either.

If I understand correctly,  pull the top part that the stem of the plug goes into, put the plug into that and then attempt to start the bike with that plug against the block to check for spark?  I'm assuming the HT lead is that part that plugs into the stem? I've torn so many engines apart but electrical has never been my strong point.

[Sin_Tiger]

Yup, you got it. I include the cap as part of the HT lead, just push it onto your spare plug, wear a glove, I don't want you cursing me if you get a belt from it 

[nikonvt]

Pulled out 2 of the plugs (can't get 3rd because my ratchet arm is too long) and leaned both pulled ones against the frame. Right hand really weak spark, second was ok. So that's a good sign. Headed out to get 3 plugs and a shorter ratchet arm extension.  Other thoughts?
I appreciate it

[nikonvt]

Ok. So she's running now and I got a full tank in her.  However, the water pump dash light is on. I replaced the radiator cap in this process. Is there a time period for everything to cycle back to normal or is this another problem?

Edit: shit. It's the engine management malfunction indicator and the manual says to not ride it and it will allow you to "limp home". All connections appear to be in order....

[Sin_Tiger]

Like I said, not the expert on this model but have a read at this, might help 12 minute Tune and Girly How To's

Looks like you and me are the only sad gits not out riding in the good weather, sooner we get you mobile the better then, I have a note from my Boss saying I have to earn petrol money 

[nikonvt]

Lol. Yup everyone else is out having fun. Wankers. Doing the cold hot cold 3x thing a try.  On #2....

[PeteH]

Just make sure the fan cuts in then kill the engine and let it realy cool down....oh, and dont touch owt when its running up...ask me how I know 

[nikonvt]

Lol. Did the 3x cold got cold and the light did go out. Gonna ride it to work in the morning so that'll be the shakedown to see if it truly is all good. Thanks for the replies folks.

[Sin_Tiger]

Glad to read you got a result. Hope the weather stays good and it gets you there and back without any drama 

[nikonvt]

Thanks Sin. Ride to work went fine, other than the temp and my heated gloves were just sent back to gerbings for repair...Got feeling back 2 hrs into my shift....but still way better than being in the truck.