R/R help

[bryan88]

Hi All. before I start let me re-iterate that parts in South Africa are, A - hard to find, B - expensive, which is the reason for me wanting to complicate what should probably just be a simple fitting job. I have a newer model GS500e that is overcharging (17 odd volts with the headlight on). I have used all the ignition parts off my old GS450 including the R/R but it is wired directly from the stator to the R/R not through the headlight switch as I believe the 450 is wired? My question is this, since I an getting DC voltage at the battery I assume the rectifier part of the unit is working? So what is stopping me fitting a 12v automotive regulator to control the voltage? If it's possible or has been done before please could someone explain how. As I said before, if it was just a case of logging onto Bikebandit or nipping down to my nearest breakers yard I would. Thanks a million.

[FiremanBob]

OEM parts might be hard to find, but can you find an aftermarket Shindengen MOSFET r/r? That's what I put on my GS550 and it works great.

[bccap]

Hi Bryan88, the guy to answer that question is Normk. I believe he has discussed this before. Try looking at his profile under Statistics, then threads started, or posts.

[Steve]

Simply installing an automotive regulator likely would not work.

For the last 50 years or so, automotive systems have had alternators in their charging systems. Their "magnets" are wire windings that have current going through them. The output of the alternator is regulated by varying the amount of current going through the windings, effectively controlling the strength of the "magnet". Our systems have fixed-strength permanent magnets, so there is no way to control them.

The only ways to regulate our voltage output are by shunting any excess to ground (the stock setup) or to momentarily disconnect the output from the system (the series regulator that some have switched to).

.

[bryan88]

Thanks guys, I may just have to bite the bullet. What I do find interesting is that the Honda R/R is recommended. Take a quick visit to VFRWorld.com to see hgow much trouble those things give!