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R65 LS neutral switch

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Mike Buhler
(@16813)
Posts: 252
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Topic starter
 

Matt Parkhouse took a quick look at my bike once and thought my starter gremlin might be the neutral switch. I bought a new one but am only getting around to put it in now. My problem is for the life of me I can't see where it goes? Can someone put up a pic or something so I can see what I have to do. Thanks

 
Posted : 04/22/2025 11:43
James Strickland
(@8053)
Posts: 430
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 Look on the underside of the gear box. 

former Airmarshal, IL.

 
Posted : 04/22/2025 15:08
Mike Buhler
(@16813)
Posts: 252
Reputable Member
Topic starter
 

Will do.

 
Posted : 04/23/2025 05:48
Richard W
(@wobbly)
Posts: 2642
Member
 

It's a good thing to change when you're doing your annual gearbox oil change. 

Owning an old Airhead is easy.
Keeping an old Airhead running great is the true test.

 
Posted : 04/23/2025 07:13
David Elkow
(@4949)
Posts: 340
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I have zero R65 experience, but I know on most (all?) airheads, getting the neutral switch out with the transmission in place can be a task. My understanding is that you must remove the rear engine mount “bolt”, and remove the spacer tube it passes through under the engine. I’ve heard that can be challenging. Then, get it back in there when done. Hope it’s easy on an R65!

 
Posted : 04/23/2025 17:32
Mike Buhler
(@16813)
Posts: 252
Reputable Member
Topic starter
 

Right now the swingarm and most of the rear end are off which would make it easier. I just had the gearbox off to lube the splines but that's back together now.

 
Posted : 04/24/2025 05:24
Richard W
(@wobbly)
Posts: 2642
Member
 

Besides the 'Neutral lamp' on the dash not working, the switch also controls when the electric starter is allowed to work. So, getting it in good operating condition will save you some aggravation.

 

► Tip of the Day: The gearbox oil is not changed by mileage, but rather by time. This is because water (from condensation, rain and bike washing) builds up inside the gearbox enclosure. It will continue to collect unless the bike is ridden long enough and far enough to thoroughly heat the oil and "cook off" the water.

This collected water then causes rust on springs and bearings inside the gearbox. Rusted springs are very prone to breaking. Rusted bearings begin to "growl". Then, for want of $5 worth of oil, you'll have a several hundred dollar gearbox job to pay for. Prevention is the key. This is why I suggest changing the G/B, drive shaft, and final drive oil once a year.

This post was modified 13 hours ago by Richard W

Owning an old Airhead is easy.
Keeping an old Airhead running great is the true test.

 
Posted : 04/24/2025 07:37

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