Motorcycle Repair: 750 Honda Shadow ACE- 1998, honda shadow ace, honda shadow 750

Question
My 1998 Honda Shadow 750 ACE was running fine as long as the battery was charged but if the battery ran down the bike just stopped. I kept charging the battery thinking it might be the stator coil, but the other day the regulator/rectifier started burning. It now has a nice hole in it where it burnt. I know I have to replace the regulator but do you think something else could have caused this problem? I dont want to replace the regulator if it is just going to catch fire again. How can I be SURE when I put the new regulator on that it won't burn up again?  Thanks in advance, Mitch

Answer
Hi Mitch,

You should do an output test of the altenator. Older Suzuki GS series MC's stators would go bad and take the reg/rec with it.

This isn't so common with other brands and models. Reg/Rec do go bad usually from overworking: dead battery, poor ground, and defective altenator.

Send me your email address as requested. I'll return several files on electrical testing and theory. Testing parts is easy, just need specs and VOM (multi-meter). The battery must be in good condition and fully charged before testing. If uncertain of battery condition, replace with a new battery, then begin tests. Costs a bit, but it's important. My email addy is: mshively1@woh.rr.com

Respectfully,
Mark Shively