Choose Your Tech Tip Category from this list: Select a Tech topic to view 00 Maintenance and General Notes 11 Engine 12 Engine-Electrical 13 Carbs/Injection 16 Fuel Tank and Lines 17 Cooling System 18 Exhaust 21 Clutch 23 Transmission 26 Driveshaft 31 Front Fork 32 Handlebar and Cables 33 Final Drive 34 Brakes 35 Pedal Assembly 36 Wheels 46 Frame/Bags/Bodywork 51 Paint, Locks and Mirrors 52 Seat 61 Chassis Electrics 62 Instruments 63 Lighting 65 Radio/Intercom 71 Tools

61 — Chassis Electrics

• Jump Start Posts
• Turn Signals Stay On

Jump Start Posts for Oilheads

Jump starting a dead battery on most Oilhead models can be quite a challenge due to limited access to the battery. BMW began installing "jump start posts" in mid year of the 2004 models. These handy posts can be retro-fitted to the earlier Oilhead models.

On any model without easy access to the starter cover, a post can be installed on the battery so that by simply lifting your seat you have access to the positive battery terminal. This item is only recommended for models with plastic gas tanks and no access to the starter cover such as the RT and RS model.

On models with metal gas tanks or clear access to the starter cover, a jump start post can be installed at the starter cover by attaching the post where the positive battery cable meets the starter motor, and drilling the appropriate hole in the starter cover. You can also purchase a new starter cover with the hole already factory drilled if you're too chicken to drill yours. A 9/16 drill bit or hole saw is required.

Use a good frame ground for the negative jumper cable.

Jump starting from any 12 volt vehicle is safe as long as that vehicle is not running.

The parts required are in stock and available for over the counter or mail order sales at the BeemerShop. For under tank models total price is $20.28, for starter cover applications total price is $19.32. Prices are current at the time of this writing and do not include labor.

Turn signals stay on, with early R1100 models

After riding, the ignition switch is turned off, and the turn signals remain on without flashing. The problem only occurs when the engine is switched off. Turning the ignition on and back off will usually shut the turn signals off.

BMW improved the turn signal relay in production week 27 of 1995. Replace the turn signal relay on effected models with part number 61 31 2 306 101 to solve the problem.

Email Ted with technical questions you'd like to see addressed on this page!