Surprise guests

[ArcaneChr0no']

Finally pulled the cover off my 300, expecting a ride but turns out a couple of squirrels had moved in. Cleaned out leaves and debris and dried it off but no start fuel pump runs. The console lights up but nothing at the relay. Found a nest tucked near the airbox, so now I need to pull the tank. Best way to handle the fuel line without making a mess?

 

[kn0ck-kn0ck]

It's a drag that it won't start after all that! if the fuel pump is running but you're not getting anything at the relay for starting, i think it's just right to check connections after the squirrel party.

When you say "nothing at the relay," are you talking about the starter relay or a different one? and also did you check for any chewed wires once you got the nest out? Those little critters can be sneaky!

 

[Gettingmyhanddirty]

Oh that's a problem, especially if they decided to chew their way though something. Anyway, removing the tank without making a mess means means you'll need to release the pressure before disconnecting things. Also make sure to disconnect the battery, just in case.

 

[ElegantlySmart]

I would also check the wiring with a fine toothed comb. The fact that you're power to the console doesn't mean there isn't a wire somewhere that could be chewed throuhg

 

[ArcaneChr0no']

I am closing the loop on this and would like to extend my thanks to everyone for their help. I found one chewed wire going right to the starter relay. A little bit of soldering later and the bike is back in business and running great.

 

[tac0_trks]

I am closing the loop on this and would like to extend my thanks to everyone for their help. I found one chewed wire going right to the starter relay. A little bit of soldering later and the bike is back in business and running great.

For future prevention, try putting some mothballs or dryer sheets in a mesh bag near the bike's airbox and under the seat. Critters hate the smell and will usually stay away

 

[ArcaneChr0no']

For future prevention, try putting some mothballs or dryer sheets in a mesh bag near the bike's airbox and under the seat. Critters hate the smell and will usually stay away

I will have to try the dryer sheet idea for sure. Do you find the scent lasts all winter or do you have to replace them every so often?