XB9 Won't turn on (First post)

[Flyguy_40]

First off, I am new to the board, and new to Buell's, although I've always wanted one.
Anyway, I got a 2003 XB9 a couple weeks ago, and I've been riding it every day. Most fun bike I've ever ridden. And that is an understatement. Like most things, I do lots of research into it if I enjoy, so obviously I found myself here on this forum. Working on a right side scoop for it, working on chopping the fender, taking pictures and documenting everything for my first post on here, and then this happened.
The bad. Rode to work today, like usual, came back out, and when I tried to turn the ignition column on... nothing. No gauge sweep, no lights, headlights, no fuel pump, NOTHING! Thought it was the batter. Jumper cables did nothing. Used a volt meter, got 12.5 volts give or take. Checked the fuses, visually and continuity, all checked out. Checked the relays the same.
The weird. when I turned the ignition column back to the "off" position, the gauges would sweep. That is the only life I saw from it.
I know I am asking a lot, but has anyone else had this problem, or have ANY idea what it is? I have run out of ideas and am going to start pulling wiring and electrical if no one has any other ideas. I'd like to get it up and running again so I can continue with all the other modifications I am currently in the process of completing.
Also, thanks to those that have chimed in on the treads about chopping the fender, fantastic advise.
So anyone that wants to throw some change at me, 2 cents or other, please do!

 

[d_adams]

Bad ground.

 

[user_deleted]

^^^^^ what dean said...........and this:

before you do anything else.....recheck the battery terminals and cables for tightness and cleanliness. they must be pristine. then get a container of kano kroil or other high quality aerosal dispersant/lubricant/penetrant. spray inside ignition switch and work back and forth with key. if now working problem solved. if not look at switch connection under flyscreen. do the simple things above first.

 

[Flyguy_40]

Thank you guys! I have checked all the grounds and relays, none of which were the problem. The problem is the sealed battery. Apparently when you turn the battery upright, it works. when you lay it down, it doesn't. So what was tripping me up was the fact that power would come on sloooowly at first, and then turning the key off then back on, power would snap right on. Weirdest thing I've ever seen in electrical problems. Now off to find a new battery!