Powerless 2012 arctic cat 550

[eyescreaM]

My 2012 arctic cat 550 got no power when I turn the key, but the headlights work. If I hook up 12V directly, the cluster turns on, so I know it's not that. MY first guess is the ignition switch, is there a way to test it to know? Already checked all the fuses, relays, and wires and everything seems fine. Any tips would be great!

 

[iRon.clawed]

You can often test an ignition switch with a multimeter by checking for continuity across the terminals in all switch positions.
Have a wiring diagram for your specific model ready so you can identify the correct terminals for the on and start.
You'd know that's the problem if you're not getting continuity when the key is turned.

 

[Manlikedylan]

My 2012 arctic cat 550 got no power when I turn the key, but the headlights work. If I hook up 12V directly, the cluster turns on, so I know it's not that. MY first guess is the ignition switch, is there a way to test it to know? Already checked all the fuses, relays, and wires and everything seems fine. Any tips would be great!

Ignition switch, seen this a couple of places now and for some reason in my life, I've seen more cases in the short time span, @iRon.clawed already talked about continuity and I second. Another quick test though is to wiggle the key gently while trying to start and see if anything changes, worn contacts can cause intermittent power loss, Idk how practical this is but its always worth a try I guess

 

[ArcticRider]

Absolutely, I'm on the same page. I've noticed switches can behave the same way, just giving the key a little wiggle is an easy and fast way to troubleshoot before getting into it further.