2014 Start - Cutoff Switch Question

[deltamark]

Thanks GoldOxide, Retsel and Peterbaron. I'll stop using WD-40 for switches.

Are any of you familiar with [url=https://learchem.com/industry/motorcycle.html]ACF-50? I have some of that and am wondering if it will be as effective as the Di-Electric grease?

Hey deltamark. I don't have a garage. Besides, if you are doing multi-day tours that involve heavy rain on some ride days, you have to ride in the rain. No garage will help there.

I stored motorcycles under outdoor covers for years in all seasons. There are condensation issues for sure, especially when transitioning from a warm bike undercover and cooling air. Ensure your cover can "breathe". If anything else, this limits the pitting on the chromed and aluminum components. WD-40 will displace moisture, but will leave a lubricating residue. I am not sure if this is desirable. Possibly consider using a "tuner cleaner" used on electrical switch components. It removes moisture and cleans the electrical contacts, assuming the cleaner reaches them.

As for keeping moisture out of the switch, I imagine the seal(s) have become compromised? Motorcycle switch gear is supposed to be weather-resistant, otherwise vehicle operation would not be fit for safe use. Example: If your engine kill switch asserted while riding in the rain (and due to rain), that would be unsafe.

Also consider inspecting associated cabling and inter-connections for water build-up.

I use electrical grease on all contacts exposed to weather. Of course the contact switch has to be disassembled to apply it. So, this will only help once you find the trouble area. I agree with G.O. stay away from WD40 for electrical contacts of any kind.

^ +1
Di-Electric Grease, very good and commonly used with great success in automotive industry...if someone is extremely picky..Stabilant 22A (contact enhancer) can be used, expensive though.