Regular beams are brighter than high beams

[Mogambo]

Yep, that's the deal. Had all of the tupperwear of the bike including the dash panels to install a spider grounding fix. Put everything back together and all was good. Took the bike out for a spin last night to make sure everything was working o.k., and low and behold regular beams illuminated the road brighter than the high beams. Did some adjusting with the nobs and the lights do move, but I'm not seeming to get the desired results. Anybody have any tips on what I am doing wrong or what the dealio might be?

 

[SkooterG]

Only thing I can think of is that they are pointed way to high, or too low.

What do you mean 'regular beams illuminated the road better than high beams'? Where? Right in front of the bike? Downrange? Everywhere? What is like when you pass reflective road signs (bigger the better). What about trees/buildings off to the side?

 

[Mogambo]

Only thing I can think of is that they are pointed way to high, or too low.

What do you mean 'regular beams illuminated the road better than high beams'? Where? Right in front of the bike? Downrange? Everywhere? What is like when you pass reflective road signs (bigger the better). What about trees/buildings off to the side?

I was riding on a road with trees to my right and left. With regular beams on the road was well illuminated, flip the high beams on and it was less. The road in front of me, where you would normally look was noticeably better illuminated with regular beams. I rode up the driveway and was in front of the garage door and same deal. When I turned the high beams on to reflect against the garage door, it was definitely brighter with the regular beams.

 

[escapefjrtist]

Skooter's right, check the aiming of the head lights.

On center stand and level ground, put the bike 20' away from your garage door. With the lights on low beam, cover them up one at a time (folded towel) and look for a sharp cut-off. The line should be approximately 36" off the ground. Adjust as necessary so both are the same.

--G

Edit - I'll bet the lights are aimed really high.

 

[squeezer]

Edit - I'll bet the lights are aimed really high.

That gets my bet too. It's a been there, done that thing for me.

 

[Mogambo]

Thanks guys for your theories on what the problem was. My feeling however is the problem has been traced back to me having the plugs from the new grounding wires not fully pushed in. Yes, the ***** factor. My skills as a motorcycle mechanic are not fully and finely honed it would seem. I do and will keep trying, just the same.

Next will be new headlight bulb installation. If you see a guy riding a blue FJR with two flashlights duct taped to the cowling you will know that things did not go well.