Bigger isn't always best
When I got home from work today, I decided to take a few minutes and try to figure out why my motorcycle won't start. I am pretty sure I have narrowed it down to an electrical issue, most likely the spark plugs, but I don't know that for sure. So, I fiddled and traced wiring for a few minutes, and then on a whim decided to check on the front fuse box. I didn't expect anything to be wrong in there, but was ready for any surprises that could await me.
Front Fusebox with burnt fuse terminals
The first thing I noticed was that the fuse wasn't propperly connected. Next, I noticed the melted terminal ends. And finally, I realized that the middle fuse wasn't the 10A fuse it should be, but instead is a 15A fuse, which will explain the melted terminals.
Just for the hell of it, I fitted the fuse back into its position, and gave the bike a try. On the first attempt it almost caught, but didn't quite, though the gauge lights came on strong and bright. I guess I will be able to ride it at night after all. Or at least once I get it running again. Next, it was a decision to figure what I can do to find a part to a 23 year old motorcycle. Ebay was the first place I looked, and luckily I happened to find the whole Horn assembly, which the front fuse box is a part of for only $14. I hit that buy it now button, and I am looking forward to getting it here. I did also bid on some crappy little rusted shorty mirrors for the bike, because the bid amount on them was $0.99, and I really doubt that anyone else will bid on them. And if someone outbids me, its not really a big loss.
When I was looking for a bike, my philosophy was that if I bought a bike that I had to fix up, it would be less expensive, and by the time I was done I would know the bike inside and out. And I am on the way. I have learned a lot about the bike, and there are a bunch of things I have yet to figure out. There are still some parts I need to replace, and in time I will, like the turn signals. While they aren't technically required, I really do want to have them. They aren't for me, they are for my safety.
I think I might like to add a windshield, but at the same time I am not sure. I wear a full-face helmet, so I don't know if it would really be of any benefit, but most of the ones I have seen say that they install and remove in seconds, so maybe it would be the sort of thing I would add for when I am riding long distances, but take off for normal around town riding. I just don't know.