Motorcycle Repair: Checking stator and rotor, dead this time, stator


Question
Mike -

I have a 1981 FXE/F, bought new back in '81.  Apparently, I had a bad voltage regulator for quite a while, since I didn't ride much I never noticed it.  I had some engine work done recently, and during that rebuild the voltage regulator was replaced.  After 1000 miles, it's again dead.  This time there was a dead short between the lead to the battery and the top pin of the regulator plug.  I checked the stator and output AC, and they appear to be OK - depending on what YOU say is OK.  Can you tell me what resistance I should see on the stator and what output voltage I should get?  I'm seeing just below 60VAC at 3000rpm, the manual says it should be at LEAST 60.

Thanks

Ken

Answer
When you start the bike you should get around 13.5 volts at the battery. If not then do a OHMs test on the pins of the stator. Then do a OHMs test from one pin to ground and do the other. Your voltage is ok. If the stator passes then the regulator is bad. If it doesnt, the the stator is bad
Good luck and happy riding
Mike