Fixing hand controls?

[NBraun]

The contacts in my headlight switch are no longer working. I can use a jumper wire between the different contacts and get it to work, but the actual switch with the contacts will not work. Any ideas on restoring the contacts to working order? Thanks.

 

[carnivorous chicken]

What kind of bike?

The Honda CBs have a switch with a small ball bearing in it and a plate with different contacts for positions (off, on, high). They sometimes get gummed up or worn with use. They're easy to take apart and clean and put back together.

 

[NBraun]

79 gs750. It has a similar setup. Should i just use some contact cleaner and scrub it?

 

[carnivorous chicken]

Yeah. Sometimes it's a matter of something being worn and not making contact, but it's pretty simple to bend it back into place so it does. And don't use any kind of lube that will diminish contact.