Low beams not working on 07' Norge

[nwguy]

I read other posts related to this but have some specific questions. Also, those threads are many years old now.

My 07 Norge's low beam lights don't work (yes the engine is running). All other lights are fine. As I understand it, the 2 likely suspects are burned out bulbs or a bad relay. Questions below:

1. What's the most efficient order of things to check? Just buy a relay since they're cheap and try replacing it first? Or dismantle the dash, etc. to get to the bulbs and check to see if power's getting to the bulbs first?

2. If I check the bulbs and power's getting to them, which relay is it? I pulled my seat and the small right side cover to reveal the relay(s). See attached picture with the colored arrows pointing to what I suspect are the relays. Which one is it?

3. If it's the bulbs, can anyone point me to an example of the specific bulbs to buy? Not looking to upgrade to anything that's not reliable.

4. If it's the relay, can anyone point me to a source for the relay? Can I buy one at Napa?

5. What's the procedure for getting to the bulb to check if they have power? What exactly do I need to remove? I do have the PDF service manual, but that procedure isn't described as far as I can see.

[Huzo]

Did both bulbs fail at the same time ?
If so, it points to something common to both, (relay, switch etc..)
To get to them (I replaced one years ago), you need to remove the black cover that houses the instrument cluster. I have replaced one with that cover fitted, but it’s very awkward. Remove the several small screws around the perimeter of the cover and it will come away with the cluster attached, but you have to release the 32 ? Pin plug in the back.
You rotate the securing arm downwards and GENTLY wiggle the plug away. Then you can remove the shroud, it needs to be manipulated around the handlebar risers and it’s not easy, but can be done.

As mentioned, it’s important to ascertain if both lights failed simultaneously, knowing that will give to good direction.

[Matteo]

Also check wire insulation at base of bulb. There was a recall to beef up the insulation to prevent chafing.

[blackcat]

On my Norge it was just the bulbs and I didn't notice that one was out but when both were out I then realized there was a problem. Don't remember which bulbs I purchased but don't think it was anything special.

[nwguy]

I don't know if they went out simultaneously. I'll start by checking the bulbs. Thanks all.

[Scott of the Sahara]

One side is out on my '08 Norge.

[nwguy]

It turned out to be just the bulbs. Bought replacements at my local NAPA. Mine's actually an 08' Norge. I could get the plastic dash piece loose, but couldn't remove it from the handlebars completely. A bit tricky getting the bulbs out and then in, but not terrible. I did grease the windscreen jackshaft and its slides with the plastic cover off. Happy now.

[Huzo]

It turned out to be just the bulbs. Bought replacements at my local NAPA. Mine's actually an 08' Norge. I could get the plastic dash piece loose, but couldn't remove it from the handlebars completely. A bit tricky getting the bulbs out and then in, but not terrible. I did grease the windscreen jackshaft and its slides with the plastic cover off. Happy now.

To get the panel off, you need to turn the ‘bars left, then right, then back to the middle.
Lift the left side then turn it 90 degrees, before moving the bike three feet to the left.
All this while drinking a coffee with your left hand and....and....

Seriously though.
Removing the handlebars takes five minutes and saves you half an hour.
But well done...

[nc43bsa]

It turned out to be just the bulbs.

When you're working on a complex piece of machinery and you hear hoofbeats, it is sometimes difficult to think "horses" and not "zebras."

As my uncle used to say, "Always look for a simple solution before delving into a complicated one."

[RHAT]

Oh man, I remember the lesson I learned from assuming it was impossible for both bulbs to go bad at the same time and being sure in my head that they came on with the switch.   

[fatbob]

I put several “regular” H3 bulbs in my Norge low beams and had them last 500 miles.    Can’t take the vibration.   I have much better luck with motorcycle specific bulbs.