I have not hooked my fan straight up to my battery but I think it would be easier to check to coolant level. Just Pull a fairing off and look inside. My water pump was leaking and it leaked to the point where the coolant got too low and would not kick on the fan. Fixed the pump, filled it up and its ran like a champ ever since. Fan motors are not known for going out. Just my 2 cents.

 

RDub. Do you mean the coolant levels in the reserve tank or the actual coolant level in the radiator?

 

I'd have to check the wiring - but it maybe that it is ground switched, not power switched.

That isn't uncommon on bikes (particularly horns/indicators) as it supposed to be easier on the switches.

The way you'd find that out is look at either side of the fan on the wiring diagrams and follow the ground. If you find that you're connected to everything else on the bike - then it is the ground you're following. If you find that you're going back to the battery - then of course it is the power.

 

My bike (1987) has 1 wire going to the therm. switch (bottom of radiator). I can test motor by taking that wire directly to ground. I ended up just putting a switch on my bike upper fairing carbonfiber covered switch. Kinda funny when I look over at the guy in the tuner car and flip that switch on. All I need now is a N.O.S. sticker.

 

And yes radiator. Use distilled water unless emergency.

 

The actual coolant level in the radiator.

And as Woot and VeryMotley said check the ground wire as a bad wire or poor connection will not allow the fan to work.

 

I really appreciate all the help guys.... Tonight will be another attempt once I get out of work.

 

Well my coolant levels are good, so I'm thinking it is going to be an electrical issue.... it looks like i'm going to be taking my bike apart . Nothing like winter projects!

It'll give me a chance to clean the guts of the bike. lol