Motorcycle Repair: Harley Charging Problem, dual plug, dear mike


Question
Dear Mike:  I live in NY my brother in New Orleans told me about you and said you may be able to help me?  Thank you for you time. I own a 1998 Harley Hugger which I converted to a 1200.  I have Screaming Eagle heads (dual plug) SE cam, SE carb, dynatek ignition with thier dual plug coil.  I'm running headers.  I have a Daytek Digital Speedo system too. The bike is a monster, I can pull 7 grand on the run.  The problem is, I keep blowing headlights, both low and high beam.  Everytime I ride and crank it up I blow a light.  I'm versed in Harley Mechanics Mike, was also a Ham Radio Geek for 40 years, but this problem baffles me because up to 5 grand the voltage output is 14.30.  I can't keep a voltmeter attched to see what it's spiking at to blow the bulbs.  I'm at a loss.  The regulator seems to have normal output at normal RPM's.  I was wondering if I could install some type of resistance in the voltage regulator output circuit (12 v side, not AC side)to cure this problem because I can't go out riding at night as I loose my headlight.  Any ideas on what I can do?  I'd reall;y appreciate your input and help.  Thank you.  Danny in NY

Answer
You really need to try a volt meter so you can see what the voltage is, but if you can its probably your regulator overloading the battery. the other thing it can be is a short in the hot wire for the lights. When you get to high RPMs the wire might be vibrating and hitting a piece of metal.
Good luck and happy riding
Mike