Motorcycle Repair: Head light, regulator rectifier, ac volts

Question
I have a 1971 Yamaha DT1E 250cc. The headlight as well as the whole bike is 6 volt. I keep burning out the small lamps for the instruments, and also the headlight. I dont know if it has a voltage regulator or not. I even went as far to install a 12 headlight, at first it worked great and I suspected the system was converted to 12 volt and I didnt know. The problem is the 12 volt head light burnt out too. I just recieved another 6 volt headlight at $18.00. I would like some feedback as to what the problem is before I throw away another $18.00. Any information is greatly appreciated.  

Answer
Hi David.

Any vehicle with an electrical system has a voltage regulator/rectifier.  It is needed to convert the AC volts to DC volts for the bike.

It sounds to me that you either have a short in the electrical system somewhere or you have a bad regulator/rectifier (not the most likely, but possible).

You need the repair manual to chase the wireing for finding the short or shorts, as well as for the specs to check any and all electrical components that may be suspect.

Let me know what you find.

Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON