Motorcycle Repair: battery not charging, rotor stator, regulator rectifier

Question
i just started riding 2 months ago when i got a 1986 shadow vt700 dropped in my lap. but now my battery wont stay charged, keep gettin stranded. i put a new battery in and it still is happening. how can i narrow down possibilities of problem? i am no mechanic at all and dont have equipment or knoledge required to fix. any suggestions or somewhat uncomplicated checks i could do would be appreciated. thank you


Answer
Aaron, if you don't have any knowledge, tools or test equipment, then you really can't do much to remedy the matter.
The charging system has a rotor, stator, regulator rectifier and associated wiring. Sometimes older bikes have corrosion in the stator wiring connector and that can be repaired with a new plug. Otherwise, someone with tools, knowledge and equipment will have to have a look.
IF the regulator rectifier is bad, it could cost several hundred dollars just for the part.

For some more assistance, go to www.elextrexusa.com to learn more about charging systems and as a source for parts, but you do need some tools and at least a test meter to do some troubleshooting.

Bill Silver