More Electrical Connector Fun- 88 K100LT

[jpevehouse]

Back again- I had strange connector issues when I tried to replace my right handlebar switch. Now I am replacing my fuel sending unit in order to get my fuel gauge working. Of course the connections are different. My question is (1) Why? and more important (2) can I get the the original ends to fit on the bike. It seems several connectors are not BMW original, should I start replacing some of them with more modern connectors and what would you suggest. The PO added an electric windshield and I want to replace some of those that I am sure are non- BMW original.

This is what is on it now.
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and of course what came in the mail from beamerboneyard.

[IMG][/IMG]

[barryg]

That 2nd connecter looks like the one for the 4-way flasher set up.

[98lee]

That 2nd connecter looks like the one for the 4-way flasher set up.

Nope. That's the correct one for the fuel pump/ fuel level sensor. Flasher one is a flat 3 wire connector.

Personally, I would try to contact the previous owner and try to find out WHY the connectors were changed and which ones. But I would probably leave them in place if they were functioning ok.

It could be VERY expensive and time consuming trying to locate the correct connectors without having to buy a whole harness and a new fuel sender.

[jpevehouse]

Well I have a new fuel sender. My action at this point is to cut the connector off the old one and splice wires as I replace parts.

The bike runs fantastic and I've put over 5K on it this year. I was driving it daily during the summer. I'm just interested in fixing the traditional weak spots on an old bike; non-working odometer and fuel gauge. FD was rebuilt by a trusted place before I got it so I can worry about splines next year.

Its just these little confusing issues. I'm used to buying parts and having them connect and fit. Bear with me- I'm twenty years removed from motorcyles and slowly getting on my feet.

[35634]

That flat 4 pin connector is the correct one for the fuel gauge into the main wiring harness. The round one is the correct connection that plugs into the tank for the sensor and pump, as Lee said.

[barryg]

Nope. That's the correct one for the fuel pump/ fuel level sensor. Flasher one is a flat 3 wire connector.

Personally, I would try to contact the previous owner and try to find out WHY the connectors were changed and which ones. But I would probably leave them in place if they were functioning ok.

It could be VERY expensive and time consuming trying to locate the correct connectors without having to buy a whole harness and a new fuel sender.

You are correct sir. My sending unit went out years ago on my '87 RT. I became quite familier with that connecter, taking that fuel tank off trying to figure out that problem. Now my memory is starting to fade and I don't know how to fix that problem.

[LOSTBOY]

The connector pictured is another Molex. They are excellent connectors, easy to find and inexpensive, but if the bike was mine, I'd find a donor harness and solder in the correct connector. If you cut the OEM connector from your new pump harness and there's a problem with the harness, BMW won't honor the warranty.

[jpevehouse]

Warranty isn't really an issue, my nervousness with all things electrical is. But I feel blind confidence when faced with the unknown has it's advantages. I'll dive into this after a holiday family visit next week.

The next project is my electric windshield. I've had it apart to clean it last summer but it still gets stuck and mostly will not work at all unless you rap the motor a few times. I ordered some relays and plan to try and find someone to rebuild the motor.

Thanks again everyone and Merry Christmas from the border.