wiring question

[coldspot]

Dumb question from a new member.
I have an 81 GS 1100. I bought it last year and this year found the battery so flat it has to be replaced. In checking over the wiring, I found the DPO (dreaded previous owner)had modified something. I have a green wire with a resistor that is connected to the positive battery terminal. Non of the wiring diagrams show this and my Clymer manual does not go into enough detail to tell me what this is.
The manual notes that there was a battery electrolyte level warning light for 81. Could this be it? I mean the battery has no place for an electrolyte sensor so I am assuming the DPO rewired it to the positive terminal to make the light go out.
Any thoughts much appreciated
Coldspot

[kichigai]

I too have a green wire with a resister going to the positive side terminal on my 83 GS1100esd. It use be used for the water level sensor which was no longer needed when I switched to the GEL type battery. If you can I highly recommend the GEL battery. I never have to worry about having to check the water level, acid spilling over or the silly idiot light comming on EVER AGAIN!

[Steve]

I will confirm what kichigai said. Your wire with a resistor was used for an electrolyte level sensor on the original battery. It is correctly terminitated with a resistor to the positive terminal.

You are much better off using what most people incorrectly call a "gel" battery. They are actually AGM, or Absorbed Glass Mat batteries. It is still a liquid electrolyte, but it is totally absorbed by the glass mat that is between the plates, and the battery is sealed, so it can not leak. Most of the batteries I have seen say they can be used in any position except upside down. They have better cranking power than stock batteries and last longer. Sure, they cost a little more, but your bike is worth it, isn't it? :shock:


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[coldspot]

Thanks
I now have another gel battery. Wholesaler was none to happy about replacing it. I have a good dealer though so tonight I get to run down my little short. The wire will not be hooked up again and my next question will likely be how to remove the idiot light.
anyway appreciate the help
Coldspot