Help wiring fan switch

So I read a few threads about wiring a fan switch. It seems like all your doing is completing a ground.. So I tested mine (1995) by pulling the female end off the thermo switch, splicing that, and grounding it to the frame. Is that right? Because as soon as I ground it, it sparks, makes a bit of noise, but nothing happens.

Ideas?

 

Also, the 10 amp fan fuse is fine.

 

If fuse and fan motor are good should start the fan immediately; provided the key is turned on.

 

Does the fan come on normally at high temps? On my 6th gen, the thermal switch in the radiator just grounds the fan circuit. I used a heavy duty relay and ran relay with switch, if yours is wired same way (only one wire to thermal switch), then sparks were from current draw of motor.

 

Just bought the bike. Iv never heard the fan come on, but it will definitely overheat sitting in traffic. I have one wire to the thermo switch, grounded it with key on and nothing happens, so the fan motor islikely bad? any idea where to get a replacement?

 

Try turning blades by hand with power off to check bearings, if it turns freely i"m stumped, because if you got a spark, it means windings are not open. If stiff, carefully try giving it a nudge with key on and shorting switch, if it runs, you might be able to save it by lubricating bearings, if accessible. Sounds like you are going to take it off anyway.

 

Ok ill give that a try and report back. Thanks for helping.

 

Looks like the fan is seized up. I poked it with a long screwdriver and it takes a lot of force to get it to budge. Looks like ill have to pull it out and see why.