Stators

In my narrowing of suspects for my electrical issues, I've come to wonder whether my stators are bad. Is that a common issue? Thanks!

 

http://www.electrosport.com/media/pdf/f ... iagram.pdf

 

thanks! this was just what i needed.

 

More common is worn out alternator bushes. The stator doesn't move (hence the name) and rarely fails.

The alternator brushes (located in the cover) are a "wear" item. Start there (and have a new gasket ready.) Be careful with the wires.

Also check the condition of the connectors in the big white electrical connector between the reg/rec ass'y and the rest of the bike.

And take your battery to the local auto parts, and have it load tested. A weak battery will drive you nuts, since the bike's charging system doesn't kick in until it hits 2200rpm. Below that, it's all battery.

Diagnose your system. Put a meter on the battery terminals and see if you're getting about 14.5V at 2300 rpm. If you are, the alternator isn't the problem at all.

 

Thanks! You've always got something to contribute. What do you mean load tested? I've a multimeter and haven't noticed anything?

 

I would but without spark, my bike doesn't run...

 

I am having a similar issue with mine and Im pretty new to this. With only 13,000 miles on my 82 maxim the stator should'nt be bad right? it was sitting for a while though. I cannot get spark to test everything they say you have to start your bike to test

 

No, you just need to test resistances.

 

Most auto parts stores have the ability to hook it up to a battery tester that simulates cranking load and can tell you if the battery is still viable or not.

It's possible for a battery to charge up nicely to 12V but have no "oomph" left to actually crank the bike, fire the ignition, etc. Having it load tested will reveal this, or rule it out.

 

I'm wondering why concern about charging systems on motorcycles that don't spark the plugs.

The charging system, which the stator is part of, charges the battery. The ignition system runs from the battery. An otherwise healthy motorcycle should fire up even if the charging system components are all laying on your bench.

 

Provided it has a healthy battery as well.

I don't think it's the charging system either.

But it very well could be nothing more than a weak battery. Which is why I suggested load-testing it to see if maybe that's why it's not firing even though it's spinning.