Motorcycle Repair: electrical problem, honda pc800, electrical problem


Question
I have a 1989 Honda pc800. The motor will only run on the battery until it is drained. I put a new battery and checked as much of the wiring and electrical connections as I could. I fired up the bike and it ran great for about 6 miles, then it died. I know that there is a rectifier/regulator and a stator, but I don't know how to test them or where they are on the motor or if they fall into play with this problem. Is there also an alternator also? Everything else is fine. The bike has 40,000 miles, runs smooth (when it runs)but I just dont know what is draining the battery.  

Answer
Hi Norm,

Sounds as if the charging system is not working properly. I recommend the repair manual for repair/maimtenance procedures. In the interim, send me an email address as requested. I'll return several electrical information files that will get you started on diagnosis.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively