Starting Circuit

All Triumph models are equipped with an electric start system.

This system consists of a starter relay, starter motor, starter switch, side stand switch, engine stop switch, clutch switch and the sprag clutch.

The starter motor is connected to the starter relay and the battery by heavy duty cables in order to supply the large currents required by the motor to start the engine.

When the starter button is pressed, the relay is energised, which then allows current to the starter motor.

The starter motor will not operate unless the clutch lever is pulled in. Also, the starter will not operate if the side stand is down, unless the transmission is in neutral. If the starter motor does not operate, the following basic checks must be carried out before further diagnosis is performed:

  • Check the engine stop switch is in the 'RUN' position.

  • Check the battery terminals are clean and tight.

  • Check the frame and engine ground connections are clean, tight and free from corrosion.

  • Make sure the battery is fully charged and in good condition.

  • Check that any fuse in the circuit is not blown and is of the correct rating.

  • Using the Triumph Diagnostic Tool, check the operation of the neutral switch or gear position sensor (if fitted), side stand and clutch switches.

note
The engine will not crank if the instruments, ABS ECM, or immobiliser/keyless ECM (if fitted)/chassis ECM (if fitted) are disconnected.

Rectify any defects as necessary.

General Fault Finding – Starter Motor and Relay

Symptom

Possible cause(s)

Starter relay does not click, starter motor does not turn

Battery discharged or defective

Blown main or starter relay fuse

Defective starter relay wiring or starter switch

Check that the side stand, transmission and clutch lever are positioned for engine starting i.e. transmission in neutral, clutch lever pulled in and the side stand down

Defective alarm system - ensure any alarm fitted is working correctly

Starter motor turns slowly

Battery discharged or defective

Loose, corroded or dirty battery connections

Loose, corroded or dirty starter motor or starter relay connections

Defective starter motor

Loose, corroded or dirty battery ground connections

Starter relay clicks but engine does not turn over

Battery discharged or defective

Crankshaft does not turn due to engine defect

Defective starter motor

Starter cable open circuit

Defective starter relay

Starter motor turns but engine does not turn over

Starter motor or starter ring gear