Opinions (like elbows)

[Big Daddy]

So a couple weeks ago I broke down on a trip and a local shop replaced the ECU/ignitor on my Kawasaki Vucan. After replacing the unit they discovered the source of the problem was that some of the wires under the tank (lots of engine heat) cracked open or broke and shorted out the ECU. So in order to get me on my way without any more delay they spliced wires into the harness. Everything has been fine so far but before I paid the bill the service manager let me know that because the entire wiring harness was not replaced it was possible that the problem could recurr at some time and recomended that I have the harness replaced when I get home.

So the question is:

Bite the bullet and have local dealer replace the harness

or

Replace the harness myself

or

Try to redo the repair by soldering in replacement wires and insulating

or

?

This was an $800.00 repair and I am of limited $$

I appreciate all advice from you folks as you have saved my bacon more than once getting my old 83 Venture back up and going.

 

[Yammer Dan]

Take your time sort it out and see what looks like it needs replaced and if you feel you can handle it go for it. Let us know.

[Guest maddabber]

Hey B

Seems to me you are being kind to the deal thar gave you somewhat of a shaft when they even charged you for overnight storage.

I would probably take the time to check more of the harness in that area to see if there is more damage then go from there.

My 4 and a half cents

[george_park]

If the wiring is cracked and the damage is localized you can look to retool the wiring using splices, solder and shrink wrap but I would still recommend replacing the harness and doing it yourself.

 

If the wiring is cracked and moisture has gotten in it's probably just a matter of time before you have other problems as the cables foul up or decay.

 

The new harness will [hopefully] be made of newer wire better able to handle the heat - if not you can also try to rerun the cabling away from the heat or sheild it (carefully).

 

My 2 cents,

Regards,

gp

[Wildgoose]

I had some needs and someone one here linked me to PinWall Cycle on ebay: http://cgi.ebay.com/Kawasaki-Vulcan-VN1500-MAIN-WIRE-WIRING-HARNESS_W0QQitemZ110209166210QQihZ001QQcategoryZ10066QQtcZphotoQQcmdZViewItem

 

They have more crap than you can poke a stick at and at fairly reasonable prices.

 

Good luck.