A Complete Guide to Grounding a Motorcycle Engine

A motorcycle engine, like most engines, requires electricity to jump-start. Therefore, a motorcycle engine also requires that its battery is correctly grounded to work. There are several reasons why the engine does not work and one of them is an incorrect ground wire connection.

The Motorcycle Battery

A motorcycle battery is an essential tool for the correct functioning of the motorcycle engine. For a battery to work, the electrons must move freely from the battery to the part in need of electricity. This means that it has to be connected properly to ensure that the electricity flows to the correct terminal. Usually, the battery has a huge insulated wire that provides current to the engine starter. A return wire is not provided because the current flows to the frame of the starter that is connected to the case of the motor.

The Ground Wire

Ground wires usually do not have a direct connection between it and the device using the electricity. In the case of the starter, the ground wire of the battery is actually connected to the frame of the starter and not to the starter itself. When grounding the motorcycle engine, make sure that the ground wire is not directly connected to the engine but to the engine case.

Troubleshooting Motorcycle Engine Grounds

When the engine fails to start, check to see if the engine is properly grounded. It should be easy to track down as long as there is a good knowledge of the grounding of a motorcycle engine. Check the wires to see if they are connected properly. Sometimes, electricity is blocked due to corrosion and rust. Always make sure to clean them to ensure proper functioning of the engine. Check the ground straps as well if they are correctly wired to the frame or the engine. If the engine is rubber mounted, then it may have a strap connecting the engine and the frame as well. Make sure that these connections are clean.

Checking the Battery

Even when the engine is correctly grounded, the engine may not start as well. If the grounding is not the problem, then the battery is. Make sure that it has enough power to start the engine. Even if the battery seems to be properly grounded on the engine, it may not have enough current to power up the engine. Bring the battery to the auto shop to have it charged. Then connect it to the engine once again to test if it works.

Replacing the Wires

If the engine always has shorts, check the wiring connections to see if they are properly fitted or secured completely. Check the ground strap as well to see if the connection is secure. If the engine still shorts, then the wires may require testing. Use an ohmmeter to check for continuity. If the wire is broken, simply replace it with a new one. Wires usually become damaged over time so make sure to replace them as soon as possible to ensure that they do not provide problems in the motorcycle engine grounding.