I'm referring to the diagram in reply #4 here...
http://suzukisavage.com/cgi-bin/YaBB.pl?num=1294779818

It shows a diode from the switch to ground. Is there actually a diode built into this switch?
If so can this diode handle the current load of another relay in addition to the side stand relay?

Ok that's good to know. But the diagram shows a diode within the side stand switch itself in addition to the side stand diode....
That diode can probably handle another relay solenoids current but it might not be able to handle the reverse EMF (inductive kickback) from two solenoids. It's values were likely chosen based on the calculated reverse EMF of a single relay.
Looking at the diagram though I guess I can just connect the new relay solenoid to the black/orange line coming from the sidestand relay contacts for the same result and then I won't have to sweat about the diode. Or the voltage drop across the diode with two solenoid loads which might cause neither to energize.
If Suzuki had just used a double throw relay here they could have implemented the same switching result without lighting the neutral light when it isn't needed and saved themselves form needing those diodes.

I guess you inferred this from my engine upgrades this past winter. Yes now that I can do a steady 88 mph I'm ready to go where you don't need roads....  
when I get back you can take my flying LS650 for a spin.

The tinkering bug has me all worked up over that unused parking light in my headlight again. And I intended to take a stab at it once the weather permitted. I ordered a SPDT automotive relay and socket a few months back. time to put it to use.

There's no reason I couldn't use a transistor, but it would add complexity and take up more space (insulation, heatsink, clamper diode, etc.) so I'm just going to use existing switchgear on the bike.
Someone here had a good idea to use the parking circuit off of the ignition switch and that's obviously how the parking bulb is intended to be used but my use-case is a bit different.
I want the parking light lit and headlight off when the bike is running with the kickstand down so I'm not shining through my neighbors windows across the alley while warming the engine up before I ride at night.
Kick the stand up the headlight turns on and the parking light goes dark.
I made a post about it before but I'm darned if I can find it again.

But a transistor large enough to handle the current for the headlight is going to get hot and need a heatsink.
Think of that SPDT relay I mentioned.
Center pole goes to +V
Top pole to headlight bulb
Bottom pole to parking light bulb

Solenoid powered from side stand relay.

The relay just switches one or the other bulb.

However, I have to consider the highbeam switch too.
So I can go the other way.
The relay I add can make or break the ground path for either bulb.

Sounds to me like somebody wants to end up in the dark trying to start the bike.

philthymike wrote on 04/06/17 at 13:24:01:


The warm up shouldn't be any more than a minute, and the bike shouldn't be on the sidestand as the cam doesn't seem to get enough oil to the uphill side at idle speeds.  Get on the bike, start it, get it running and keep it at a fast idle with your throttle hand.....half a minute works fine to get the oil everywhere.....then ride off and be gentle on the throttle until engine is warmed up well.