Spike
XS650 Member
What's up guys,
So here's the story (there's always a story):
I have a basically stock (electrically anyway) '79 XS650.
Last year, I decided to be a "genius" and switch to an H4 bulb (low amp 50/55). I think due to the constant vibration inside the headlamp housing (aftermarket) the bulbs continuously burnt out. I would replace them (monthly) and everything would be fine, but eventually, I lost power to the headlamp circuit completely. After trying several known good bulbs, I had no power at all to my headlight socket. I checked voltage with a fluke meter on the yellow and brown? (can't remember color?) wires and had nothing.
Around that same time, I made a very impatient and stupid decision to hard wire another bulb straight from the battery (fused) to an H4 bulb as a temporary patch so I could ride at night. This lasted a couple days but completely drained the battery after enough time.
Now, i've discovered the alternator isn't charging, on top of the old headlight problem. When people say, "you'll blow your charging system" (which is what i'm assuming I did) what exactly does this mean? Have I fried the reg/rec or the stator and/or rotor?
Just looking for any input on what I should start testing next? I've started with checking the voltage at the battery (fully charged) 1200 to 2000 rpm, and I have no charge. I tried the slap test and have no sign of power from the rotor.
Any ideas guys? I really appreciate any feedback or input from anyone.
Thanks for listening.
So here's the story (there's always a story):
I have a basically stock (electrically anyway) '79 XS650.
Last year, I decided to be a "genius" and switch to an H4 bulb (low amp 50/55). I think due to the constant vibration inside the headlamp housing (aftermarket) the bulbs continuously burnt out. I would replace them (monthly) and everything would be fine, but eventually, I lost power to the headlamp circuit completely. After trying several known good bulbs, I had no power at all to my headlight socket. I checked voltage with a fluke meter on the yellow and brown? (can't remember color?) wires and had nothing.
Around that same time, I made a very impatient and stupid decision to hard wire another bulb straight from the battery (fused) to an H4 bulb as a temporary patch so I could ride at night. This lasted a couple days but completely drained the battery after enough time.
Now, i've discovered the alternator isn't charging, on top of the old headlight problem. When people say, "you'll blow your charging system" (which is what i'm assuming I did) what exactly does this mean? Have I fried the reg/rec or the stator and/or rotor?
Just looking for any input on what I should start testing next? I've started with checking the voltage at the battery (fully charged) 1200 to 2000 rpm, and I have no charge. I tried the slap test and have no sign of power from the rotor.
Any ideas guys? I really appreciate any feedback or input from anyone.
Thanks for listening.