85 K100 starting and alternator issues

My k100 has been giving me occasional starting problems. I will hit the starter, lights good, fuel pump going, but nothing from the starter. After 3 to 4 pushes, it starts and runs fine. And will usually start normally after that. And it is getting worse. Starter relay or the starter itself? Also the alt light has started glowing slightly. When I hit the brakes, it gets brighter. But it does not seem to affect the bikes running in any way. about 40k on the bike and other than that, runs great.

Any thoughts or comments appreciated

The fix for the glowing alternator light (assuming alternator is charging properly and no corrosion at connections) is here -> http://www.ibmwr.org/ktech/charge-light-glow.shtml

Following others advice with a similar problem I first checked ground wires at the bell housing and under the tank, cleaned starter (ibmwr site has great description), and finally found it to be dirty internals in ignition switch (eastern beaver has instructions w/photos).

Look at the thread listed below. I was having trouble with my K75. The charge light would glow dimly, and I received good help and advice here on the forum and the issue is gone/repaired. I did two things that were recommended, so I don't know which of the two fixed the problem, but doing both were worthwhile. My starter was very dirty inside. I made it look like new very quickly. I also cleaned the key switch, which had dirty-pitted contacts. The problems have been gone every since.

See if anything here will help you.

Ed

http://forums.bmwmoa.org/showthread.php?68821-1994-K75-Starting-running-and-charge-light-issue

First, I would try going to Radio Shack or a music store and by some DeoxIT.
Clean all connections under the tank,ground, and the connector for the EFI unit, and the Ignition sensor.
Your bike will love you for it!

Ken

Your problem is either a dirty ignition switch (internally) or dirty starter commutator.

Try testing the voltage at the fuse as explained in the thread Ed referenced.

Thanks for all the info! Going to remove & clean starter today.