GS750 Running problem

[tomo]

My 79 GS750 was running fine everyday to work and back, until last week when cruising at 60mph, it started to stutter and lose power. At about 30mph it seemed ok. Have noticed the battery is on its last legs, in fact that day I had to kickstart it. The battery is a couple of years old, but I have noticed the fluid level has needed topping up a fair bit lately. Now electrickery aint my strong point, so forgive me if this is a dumb question, but would a dodgy battery cause that erratic running. I would`nt have thought so if the charging system itself is ok, but ?. I know from experience there are a load of other possible causes, dodgy plug, sticking advance/retard, faulty coil etc, not to mention possible fuel side problems. Seems a bit coincedental the battery problem and then the erratic running, so just thought I`d ask the question, any advice much appreciated.

[chuckycheese]

Battery

A bad battery definitely could be causing your problem. I once had a HD that missed badly when the battery was bad. Also, you mentioned having to add lots of water lately. That sounds like you've also got a problem with your regulator. That should be checked out right away. Check out the 'stator papers' here on the forum and go from there; it's pretty straightforward.

[tomm]

It's a long shot, but check the main fuse. I experienced a similar problem last year, and it turned out that the main fuse had mechanically failed. It would make contact, and then open up after driving a few miles.

[chef1366]

I agree with Chucky. Do the stator papers.