Motorcycle Repair: Stator and Oil light on a 1982 Honda Gold Wing Interstate, honda gold wing, oil sight glass


Question
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Followup To
Question -
Chris:

Thanks for your prompt answers. Can you tell me where the oil level sensor is located?

Tom Selfridge


I have two questions.
1.  I have a 1982 Honda Gold Wing Interstate. I recently purchased it and was having trouble with the charging system. I was advised to check the connectors to the stator and replace them if they were discolored from overheating. I checked the connectors and discovered that the three yellow wires have been hard wired. Still, when I started the motorcycle, it would charge at about 12.5 volts until the yellow wires got hot. Then the volts would drop to about 11.25 volts. Does this sound like the stator is overheating and needs to be replaced? If so, what stator do I need and how hard is it to replace.
2.  While letting my motorcycle run to check the voltage, I heard a click. I don't know where it came from but I noticed my oil light came on. I instantly shut off the engine and noticed a few drops of oil, which appeared to have come from behind the engine part the oil filter mounts to. I believe that might be where the oil pump is. I checked the oil sight glass. It was dirty and I was unable to tell how much oil was in it. I added some and discovered I over filled it. So I drained the oil and changed the oil and filter. When I started the motorcycle for a moment and shut if off, I noticed the oil level dropped, as it should have to fill the oil filter. I added oil to refill the system and started the motorcycle. Looking through the oil sight glass I can see the oil circulating, which leads me to believe the oil pump is working, but the oil light is still on. The engine starts right up, runs smooth and I haven't detected any unusual sounds. What should I check to find the problem and how do I fix it once I find it.

Thanks,
Tom Selfridge
Answer -
Hi Tom.
 As far as the stator problem, you should check for both shorts and hot grounds in the wiring between the stator coil and the battery.  Also check the regulator/rectifier for possible problems.  If all of those check out, then the problem is in the coil.

If you do need a new stator, then just save the hassles and order the correct one from a reputable shop.  They are, usually, not difficult to replace.

As far as the oil light, it is looking like either a dirty oil level sensor or a failing oil level sensor.

Good luck.
FALCON

Answer
Hi Tom.
 Normally, the oil level sensor is down at the bottom of the engine.  Normally about centerline, but it could be to either side, either near the front or near the rear of the engine.  On the GL, I am not certain which it is.  The repair manual will show you where it is along with detailed removal instructions.

Good luck.
FALCON