Unraveling the Wiring Maze

[rickt]

This is likely the first of many posts requesting assistance for returning the wiring on my '78 GS750C restoration project to original form. I think I have the rear (turn signals and tail light) in order. I'm now working on the items mounted to the battery box. The photo shows (circled in red) two b/w wires that I believe are grounds. I have no idea where the lower wire that is currently not connected should be connected. I have red multiple posts suggesting that a ground be run directly to the negatively terminal of the battery. Should both of these be connected directly to the battery negative.

Recommendations will be greatly appreciated!

[Steve]

Can you tell us what is on the other end of that loose wire?

If it's black and white, it's likely a ground, but for what device? If it will fit on the same terminal with the other one you have circled, go ahead and put it there, but run another wire from there to the battery.

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[simon kuether]

You appear to be going to a lot of trouble to get this old back into loverly condition.Well done!! For long term reliability,I'd take those wires back to the battery.You will end up with a few connections there but is worth the effort to take them there and spend a bit of time to tidy them up.The less connections you have ,the better.I don't believe in connecting to the frame then to the engine then to the battery etc.Sometimes you have to,but the less times you do means less hassles later when you want to be riding rather than trying to track down an electrical fault.Make sure your connections to your frame and engine are clean and put a very thin smeer of petroleum jelly (vaseline) on them before you tighten them up.All those brass connections(especially the "bullet" types) should be removed and thrown as far as you possibly can.Replace them with good quality "spade" types.I'd also replace those full circle ones with good ones with the correct sized holes..The bottom one that you've highlighted is possibly a earth for you fuse box mount bizzo.I highly recommend the spades for your stator wires.Another handy hint for fixing your wiring ,is to get a wiring diagram,blow it up a bit so you can see everything clearly,and as you go through your wiring and you're happy with that bit,highlight it with a highlighter.Your wiring will become less of a mystery and you will be able to see easily what has been fixed.You'll be surprised how quickly it'll all come together.Keep going the way you are and you'll end up with a ride to equal old mate Matchless.Cheers,Simon.

[rickt]

Lower b/w wire

The loose (lower) b/w wire comes from the regulator beneath the battery box.

I do intend to replace all of the bullet connectors with spade connectors as soon as I am able to get the bike together and running. It was last started in 1981! I'm trying to get as much done as possible before the temp keeps me out of the garage.

Can you tell us what is on the other end of that loose wire?

If it's black and white, it's likely a ground, but for what device? If it will fit on the same terminal with the other one you have circled, go ahead and put it there, but run another wire from there to the battery.

.