Motorcycle Repair: engine problems, local public library, cx500

Question
i have a 1982 honda cx500custom the bike isn't charging the battery. one place tells us probably a bad stater another says probably a bad rectifier. the bike runs rough when the batery is low. we have to charge it every time we park. it was my grandpa's bike who just recently passed away, so i do not have many more details. if you have symptoms i can probably say if i heard grandpa talking about it.  

Answer
Hi Randy,

The charging system should be checked via an output test. Depending upon the results of that test, individual charging system components should be isolated and tested.

To learn more about performing these tests, get a copy of the repair manual. Check your local public library for repair manuals, or buy a manual.

Visit Electro Sport's website and follow their "Fault Finding Chart."

www.electrosport.com/electrosport_fault_finding.html

CX500 Resources:

http://cx500.gobinet.se/

http://www.elsham.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/cx500/

Respectfully,
Mark Shively