Motorcycle Repair: 1971 HONDA SL350--NOT CHARGING, magnetic rotors, stator windings


Question
WHAT IS A COMMON ISSUE, HELP PLEASE.

Answer
Ira, The system consists of the magnetic rotor, the stator windings, the rectifier and a small current regulator.

Wiring diagram on http://oldmanhonda.com/MC/WiringDiagrams/MCwiring.php

The magnetic rotors seldom lose their magnetism and the stators are coated with expoxy. Start by checking the wiring harness from the stator to the main wiring harness connection (4 pin connector). Then remove the side covers to access the battery box and rectifier wiring connector. Look for clean, tight fitting connections. If the rectifier looks overheated, it may be damaged. If the bikes are operated with a dead/dying battery, the rectifiers can be damaged from over-voltage conditions. There is a small box with two wires, which is the current regulator. If everything else appears to be working properly, then disconnect the current regulator wires and check output again with a volt meter.

The system adds additional power to the circuit when the lights are turned ON. That is controlled by the headlight switch on the handlebars, so remove the headlight and check all the wiring connections within the headlight shell.

ALWAYS start with a fully-charged battery that will pass a load test, before trying to trouble-shoot the system. A good clean ground for the battery and wiring harness is also important.

Troubleshooting charts/parts/info at www.electrosport.com
http://www.electrosport.com/technical-resources/diagnosis-center

Bill Silver