I have an 83 harley fxr. I had a little problem I think. My batter at idle is reading 12.7 volts even when i rev it. I thought the battery volts will go up when you rev the bike. I tested the stator it self and was getting 22 volts, did an ohm test no breaks in the wires or any shorts. Is my battery charging and I'm over looking it?

 

seems like regulator trouble. did the ac volts from the stator climb when you increased RPM?

 

Not that difficult really...
record/note
1] Battery Voltage, at rest [Not fresh off the Charger]
2] Battery Voltage, Key On...
3] Battery Voltage, Starter Engaged
4]Battery Voltage, at [High] Idle.

22VAC from the Stator seems Low... with a Half Wave rectifier that is Not even 12v!!!

 

19-26 volts @ 1000 rpm

 

I stand Corrected [Again] I guess they must use a better rectifier!!
Makes it easy tho... If the Battery goes Down with use... ya need a regulator I Think...

 

My 73 FL just had the same problem. It was not charging at all. It was the stator. As long as I was in there, I just got a kit for an Evo system, which consisted of the stator, rotor and regulator. Works fine now.

 

I bought a brand new voltage regulator $140. I made sure it was grounding, clean the bracket and everything. Im still getting 12.7 volts. Even when reving and idle. I tested the stator every way till sunday and it passed.

 

If it don't ever get lower... Who Cares??
I feel as long as the Charging system can "keep up" all is good...
Admittedly Odd Scenario... but, again, I would Not sweat it till it really is a Problem!!!

I'm curious what the battery sits at when bike is Off!!!!

 

Have you tested the battery? Some faulty batteries will not take a charge...therefore the regulator will not put out.

Have you tested your meter on another battery...like you car?

 

Good idea to check the meter... especially if it is one of those Harbor freight freebies!!!!
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