1981 GS 450 charging problem

[pete]

The best ground solution is to run a wire from that common grounding point (bolt) straight to the negative terminal of the battery. So you keep what you have and make another ground wire, round eyelet at the bolt end and whatever works with your battery terminal at the other end.
And yes, we understand.

+1, definitely.

Relocate all those grounds to one mounting bolt of your starter relay, and run the ground wire to battery negative from there. Make sure that point on the electrics plate is free of paint and clean to ensure the ground is 100%.

[rogue1313]

Well a little update:

I cleaned a lot of the connections....didn't get around to relocating the ground wires...but after I was done, the voltage at the battery went up to 13.5vdc...which was encouraging.

I keep it on a battery tender.....but the truth is, I've gone out on several decent rides...made some stops & a it started right up again......and always measures 12.65vdc when I get back.....

So to be honest, I don't think it's really got charging problem....I think the guy I bought it from was just wrong....It's been running kick ass since I got it road ready again.

It's a freakin blast to ride too! Feels like you're hauling ass even when you're only going 65mph.....love it so far!