Caution: your experience may vary!
There has been much discussion, for a long time, about the inadequacies
of the Nighthawk charging systems, and low/no charging below 2500/3000 RPM, or
sometimes higher.
I had the same problems, and encountered many failures to start. I added
an "idiot light" assembly from Harbor Freight to see what was going on. See
previous post at the end of this one. I have mine double-stick-taped to the
gas tank; maybe not "pretty" but very reassuring! It was my theory that at a
"certain" voltage level (undetermined) the voltage level was low enough to
cause a failure in the ignition system, even though there was sufficient power
to continue to crank the engine.
I replaced the battery with a Honda (Yusa?) and the regulator/rectifier
with a model from Electrosport -information below - and got an immediate
improvement in the whole system. Currently, the lights indicate charging of
12.5 volts starting at between 1200 and 1500 RPM, or lower. Extended driving
will bring the system voltage up to near 14 volts. I rode about 125 miles
yesterday, and the voltage level was about 14 volts when I turned it off. When
I turned the key on this morning to check, the battery was at 12.5 volts with
the headlight on, not running.
I have just recently had the ignition system worked on, with one coil
replaced and a new CDI module, and it has started without hesitation every time
since the repair. I think the marginal ignition system was my biggest problem,
and the regulator/rectifier was the real "frosting on the cake".
If you are having ongoing charging problems, or simply want to improve
your reliability, I highly suggest you consider the Electrosport
regulator/rectifier. It was also recommended several times by the electrical
engineer, [email protected] on our list. Check his previous
posts for much more information.
Gene Henry
Originally sent 11/2/2009
Recent experience with my 84' CB650SC:
Intermittent starting problems, sometimes after just riding and shutting
down.
Battery condition questionable.
Charging system typical low output.
I have a multi light voltage indicator from HarborFreight installed so I
can see the voltage/battery/charge condition.
a.. Three alternator readings: Strong (14V), Normal (13.5V), Low (13V)
$4.99
a.. Three battery readings: Good (12.5V), Fair (12V), Poor (5V)
a..
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=46972
Replaced the battery with a new Honda/Yusa(?). Much better.
Replaced the regulator/rectifier with one from Electrosport $100
http://www.electrosport.com/products/product-detail-581.php
This made a enormous difference in charging voltage levels.
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