Motorcycle Repair: electrical, virago models, yamaha virago

Question
hi i have a 1982 Yamaha virago 920cc i am buying batteries every 2-5 weeks the battery is dying and not holding its charge. what could be the problem? also when i start up the bike there is a grinding type of noise i have took it to the local bike shop afraid of putting metal shavings in the oil. they said that it is normal. i was unable to pay for the tech to look at the electrical problem.
                          thank you
                              Isaac  

Answer
Hi Isaac,

The charging system needs tested to determine the source of the problem. Testing is simple and you can do it at home with a test meter and some instructions.

The grinding noise is common with the Virago models. It is not normal. Starter shim kits are available to fix this problem.

I return tech information files by email. There was no email address with your question as requested and explained in my instructions. Reply with your email addy and I'll send files to help you test and repair the problems.

Otherwise, visit the following resources for assistance:

Virago Tech:

http://viragotech.com/phpBB/portal.php


Electro Sport- Charging system fault finding diagram:

www.electrosport.com/electrosport_fault_finding.html


Also, check eBay for Virago Starter SShim kits.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively