I just picked up a 95 Electra Glide. The charging system shows 13.7-14.0 charging volts while driving and around 13 at idle. However when I run the spots the voltage really drops. It will go just below 11.5 - 12 at idle and maybe 13 while driving. I cut them off before it goes any lower. Is this normal or a symptom of a larger problem? I left my DVOM at work so I guess I will start checking voltages and grounds this week. Is it possible I have a voltage regulator going out? What kind of voltages am I looking for from the stator and out of the regulator? Thanks guys

 

I guess my battery could be on the way out. It is 6 years old. I may start by replacing it first.

 

Good idea to at least get it tested.

VicW.

 

If you're looking at the on board voltmeter, that's perfectly normal. The voltmeter shows voltage at the most remote part of the lighting circuit and normally will read low depending on the load. If you put a voltmeter directly to the battery terminals, it will read much higher. Get an idea what is normal and watch for any changes.
If you really want your on dash voltmeter to read accurately, you will have to run
dedicated wires up from the battery terminals and use a relay to switch the signal on and off.

for a go/nogo test of the charging system, look at the voltage before you crank the engine and after it's started, as long as it's higher when it's running, you're ok.

Hogdoctor

 

Thanks guys. After reading some info on how Harley systems work I think I am ok. I still plan on replacing the battery. It is very old.