BMW Airhead EDL4Li Lithium Charging System Install on a custom bobber - 600 mile check up

The BMW bobber is back in the shop for a quick check up and and a new upgrade - An Enduralast 450w High Output Lithium Charging System. There's a lot that could potentially go wrong when rebuilding a motorcycle from the ground up, and one of the things that failed us in the 600-ish miles we have put on this bike so far is the charging system. Because this bike is running a pretty expensive antigravity lithium battery, we decided to upgrade to a brand new alternator system, one that is specifically designed for the slightly lower voltages that lithium batteries prefer to run.
Additionally we give the bike a once over, an oil change, and a valve check. It's running great, as you will hear at the end of the video. Those of you with sharp eyes might see something pretty interesting near the end, too.
Want to see more of the Custom BMW R90/6 Project? Check out the playlist here:
• BMW R90/6 Custom build
I'm on Instagram @roodlum / roodlum

[@ianbestor1528]

Just picked up an '80 R100. It was well taken care of, but I need to dive in and learn all about it. Euro bikes are another world to me. great vid.

[@Jsean56]

Love that bike. I’m looking for an airhead to get started on.

[@mooman351]

Got an R100 as someone elses failed Cafe racer project, been sitting for a while as life got in the way but looking to get moving on it again soon

[@AnalogDude_]

wel executed floating looking (carbon) mud guards mounted on the rear swing arm (like the current GS) and front wheel fork would be a good addition to make it suitable for everyday. Runs very wel, considering it's an evolution on the world war 2 R75. Does BMW still sell most of the engine parts?

[@mustafamechanic1094]

I love you so much bor

[@ofingrey]

Damn, that is one beautiful bike you've made. Wish we had those parts you guys have there, it's too expensive to get em here OR they just won't ship em cuz of zip codes doodads

[@SeanConnollyiscool]

Nice 👌 How'd you eliminate the starter solenoid? I assumed you meant you eliminated the electric start, but I see you use it at the end. If you explained in a previous video I'd love a link. Love all your videos, keep it up!

[@roodlum]

Thanks. In this case the motogadget M-unit functions as the starter relay. I have a pair of videos detailing the creation of the wiring harness with the M-unit at it's heart: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pXSpkqBqlJKBnrs

[@SeanConnollyiscool]

@@roodlum Aah, ok. You eliminated the starter _relay_ but the solenoid is still on there. I totally misheard. Thanks again for all your work 👍

[@jimm4260]

The rectifier you bolted in there... aren't those cooling fins and shouldn't they be out in the open air? Curious... wondering where to mount mine.

[@roodlum]

That's where the manufacturer designed it to mount, so I assume they took it's position into account. (I don't have any ties to eme or enduralast) The cover does block airflow, but is vented to open air, at least. We haven't had any problems with it.

[@hashimluqman1646]

heey bro loved your video i my self have an r65 bmw but the electrical system is giving me a headache there is no spark from the pulsar so might the cdi be the problem

[@roodlum]

Thanks. No spark is tricky to diagnose. I'd start by making sure all your electrical connections are clean and tight, and that the kill switch is in the run position. If that doesn't change anything, I'd try following the instructions here: bmwr65.org/smf/index.php?topic=5189.0

[@jimm4260]

I got rid of the beancan and went electronic ignition… includes new coil also

[@xanmarks]

I intalled the exactly same set, but my bike still not keep the Yuassa battery, do you have idea why can be?

[@roodlum]

Electrical can be tough to diagnose. Try testing each connection to make sure it is working correctly and plugged into the right spot.

[@flipinflopin]

Will this charging system work with the Lithium Rick’s Reg Rec?

[@roodlum]

The kit includes an R/R that's designed for use with a Lithium battery, though I know the lithium ones sell out quicker than the standard kits. You'd have to inquire with the Rick's people as to the maximum wattage their R/R could handle. These alternators output 450w where stock is around 250w. It's possible this alternator could overload the Rick's R/R if it's not designed for that kind of current.

[@rodgerreed4990]

How do you like the alternator upgrade? I’ve been looking at that one

[@roodlum]

Coming up on two years trouble free. I have a similar kit on my R100GSPD as well and no battery issues there either after thousands of miles (except for the time I left the parking light on and killed it!)

[@rodgerreed4990]

@@roodlum well I ordered it for mine, installed it and drove it. I am very very happy with the charging system now. Thank you

[@roodlum]

awesome! You're welcome

[@jimr513666]

Does this engine have two spark plugs per cylinder?

[@roodlum]

Sure does. We had the heads dual-plugged when it got refreshed. It's recommended to do this for the big bore kit that was installed.

[@jandro]

what battery are you running? just purchased the kit but realized I dont even know what lithium battery rating to purchase lmao

[@roodlum]

I'd suggest looking up the cold-cranking amps (cca) of your OEM battery and either match or exceed that with the new Lithium unit. These airheads need a good bit of juice to turn over those big pistons - the bigger bikes require around 365cca which results in a pretty expensive battery. Gotta pay to play, though. That's german engineering for ya!

[@jandro]

@@roodlum Thanks Rich. I've been binge watching all your videos, a lot of really clever solutions. Subscribed! Cheers mate.

[@shanemous2451]

What muffler is that ?

[@roodlum]

Lossa Engineering

[@carlfigueroa841]

✔️ 𝓟Ř𝔬𝓂𝔬𝐒ϻ

[@ps3shakes123]

Just got an r75 thurs. and I'm trying to figure out the best battery for it today, and you post this..serendipitous. edit- *an

[@roodlum]

Well, first off congrats! I’d suggest using a lead acid battery until you’re certain the charging system is functioning properly. Lithium batteries can get killed off pretty quickly if they get discharged too far, and overcharging can be even worse. Lead acid is more forgiving in that aspect.

[@ps3shakes123]

@@roodlum thanks.