3 Wire Turn Signal To 2 Wire Motorcycle
Motorcycles are often customized by their owners to achieve a personalized look and feel. One common customization is the replacement of the bulky and heavy turn signal lights with smaller and sleeker ones. However, many of these new lights only have two wires instead of the standard three wires found in the original turn signals. This can pose a problem for those who want to install these new lights on their motorcycle. In this article, we will discuss how to convert a 3 wire turn signal to a 2 wire motorcycle and still have functioning lights.
Understanding the Wiring of Turn Signals
Before we discuss how to convert a 3 wire turn signal to a 2 wire motorcycle, it is important to understand the wiring of turn signals. The three wires in a standard turn signal are usually color-coded. The green wire is for the right turn signal, the yellow wire is for the left turn signal, and the black wire is the ground wire. On the other hand, the two wires in a new turn signal usually have a black wire and a red wire. The black wire is the ground wire, while the red wire is the power wire.
Converting a 3 Wire Turn Signal to a 2 Wire Motorcycle
To convert a 3 wire turn signal to a 2 wire motorcycle, you will need a few tools and materials. These include wire strippers, electrical tape, and a test light. Here are the steps to follow:
- Disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical shock or damage.
- Locate the wiring harness of the turn signal that you want to convert.
- Remove the turn signal from the motorcycle and identify the three wires in the wiring harness. These wires are usually color-coded as green, yellow, and black.
- Cut the green and yellow wires from the wiring harness, leaving a few inches of wire on each end.
- Strip the insulation from the ends of the green and yellow wires, and twist them together.
- Connect the twisted green and yellow wires to the red wire of the new turn signal using a wire connector. Make sure that the connector is tight and secure.
- Connect the black wire of the new turn signal to the black wire of the wiring harness using a wire connector. Again, make sure that the connector is tight and secure.
- Wrap each connection with electrical tape to ensure that they are insulated and protected.
- Reinstall the turn signal on the motorcycle and reconnect the battery.
- Test the new turn signal to make sure that it is functioning properly. Use a test light to check if the turn signal is getting power when it is activated.
Conclusion
Converting a 3 wire turn signal to a 2 wire motorcycle is a simple and straightforward process. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily install new turn signal lights on your motorcycle without any problems. However, if you are not confident with your skills in handling electrical wiring, it is best to seek the help of a professional mechanic.