Harley Davidson Charging System Check

[@31mathesius]

After 2 years/2 batteries, replacement of about every relay and fuse, and keeping my rides short enough to have a charge, I finally watched this video, replaced my regulator/rectifier and have resolved my issue! John, You're the man! appreciate you brother!

[@michaelsheppard7340]

❤

[@randallsimmons391]

Miss you, John. Hope you and your business are doing well and that you will return to providing some of the best HD content on the Tube!!!

[@napieraustin]

Have a 2002 Softail springer. The speedo keeps dropping off and the check engine like comes on for a min. Only really does it when getting into higher rpm. Also lights dim when happens. Think it’s the regulator?

[@sal8575]

Hey John could use your help....i have a 13 street glide. When the bike is cold it starts great at idles fine. When it's ridden for a while it's a bitch to get it started again and also when I'm sitting the idle goes up a bit and when I try taking off its sputter and wants to die. I used ypur video to find codes and I'm getting a P0118. Thanks in advance, Sal

[@TheHarleyTech]

Oh man. That’s a tough one for Internet diagnostics! I’d hate to even speculate. I may very well send you down the wrong way. Have you googled p0118 yet?

[@sal8575]

John Maxwell yesterday after I wrote you I started looking at forums and found alot of people who have got the same problems and code changed the engine temp sensor and it worked for them, might give that a try!

[@roberthirons570]

You asked why people ask questions on fb. I can tell you part of that reason. I know so little about motorcycles and cars, and Harley says they have a bike for every budget; the problem is, they don't have maintenance for every budget. Love my Harley, but damn, maintenance labor fees are expensive! So I have to learn someway and asking the question on fb usually gets me in the right direction. Then to come here and find an outstanding video like this is awesome. So I do thank you for getting me that much closer to attempting this fix myself. No way I can afford to take the bike a dealer and get it fixed in the near future, but I really want to go riding again. Hopefully, after watching this series of videos I'll be able to get this bike fixed with the just cost of a couple of parts, which is bad enough.

[@omegaseamaster1550]

02 Ultra suddenly developed a ce light on a ride. I was on a highway that had limited exits at the time. But, when I noticed the voltage meter dropping slowly with the first available exit and I knew it was time to turn around. Home was three overpasses and a tunnel away inside of 30 miles while riding two up. Got to within three driveways home before she gave up the ghost. Did the voltage tests and a couple grounding tests and figured it was the VR. While on the batt. charge I called around and found a VR 120 miles round trip and by the time it was installed the battery was good to go, pressed the go button and voila away she went. Great learning/explanation videos.

[@hammerfoot4273]

Awesome thank you I needed this. I work in the semi truck industry. I recently inherited my dad's 1995 Dyna, he passed away a few months ago but told to take it and ride it, so if course it's pre-diagnostic computer. It had to be jumped every time in order to start it. Tested battery voltage sitting, it's good. Tested while cranking and it plummeted down to like 6 or something I can't remember. Got it running and tested at the battery terminals, idle was only getting like 4-6 v, bringing up to around 2000-2500 brought it up to around 13-14 v. So I've been trying to think what it is, I have a new battery to install and test this weekend.

[@ejakeway]

This video is perfect. I actually had a problem with my 14 sportster where out of no where while riding one day my lights dimmed way down and kept drying at idle. I knew it was the regulator but I wasn't confident in my diagnosing. Took it to my dealer and sure enough it was the regulator. Worst part was they didn't have it in stock and had to wait 7 days for the part to come in.

[@TheHarleyTech]

most folks just guess, then an extra couple hundred later, they actually get it fixed! At least you didn't waste any money!

[@shaunchigas5493]

Had a voltage regulator go bad on my 12 Wide Glide. Noticed it first riding at night. The lights would get extremely bright for a few seconds then go back to normal. I learned that HD had a recall out on voltage regulators for 2012 Wide Glide. Contacted my dealer and they said bring it in. Took it in and they said that it wasn’t under recall and nothing wrong with it. A week later the bike shut off with no power because it quit charging. Checked the Ohms thru the voltage regulator and found it to be the culprit. Just seemed fishy that it was bad and wasn’t covered under the recall? Good video!

[@mafosa8519]

What I’ve seen too is. The magnets crack or come unglued from the cover. Speaking of covers. The splines also blow through and cause intermittent charging. Good share dude! Larry

[@delbridge11l]

Hey john. Got a 2015 street glide that’s been through multiple batteries. 2 H-D and a Napa. Napa one lasted 2 months. No battery or check engine lights but voltage gauge on dash jumps around. Did all your checks and everything checks out. Think I should just go for the regulator and hope it fixes the problem.

[@CDietman]

This is the most thorough video on the subject I’ve found. It confirms my belief that I need a new regulator for my Dyna as it’s fried two brand new batteries. Thanks! Subscribed!

[@insanedb]

I got my bike at the end of last year's season, basically brand new with 160km on it. I didn't ride it too much, and by the end of the season, I had only reached 500 km. It started every time, even after 2 or 3 weeks of not using it in cold weather. Then, during the winter time, I stored the bike in my shed. I removed the battery and put it in my closet. This season, I charged the battery, and everything was good. I ride it every weekend, but for the past 2 or 3 weeks, I've been having trouble starting the bike. It remains unused for a week, and on Saturdays, I ride without any issues, but on Sundays, the bike won't start. This has happened three times. The last time, the voltmeter marked 12.28v, which wasn't enough to start the bike. Then, I charged the battery, and after 3 or 4 hours, it was charged up to 12.8v, and it started with no problems. So, I wonder what could be the problem. I have a jump starter, which I use in emergencies to avoid spoiling my weekend. However, using the jump starter regularly is not ideal. Since the bike is still new, I don't know where the problem could be. The bike is a 2022 Sportster 48, thank you in advance.

[@batwing1271]

Dude, your videos have helped me again. I was going to upgrade to a 50amp 3 phase for my 96 FLHR. Because my bike wouldn't keep up with the stereo (bag and fairing speakers) just replaced the battery and checked the charging and it was at 14.2. I actually came to see if you would show amperage output in the video. Checked it again after a 50miles, I was at 12.9 I assumed it was the regulator. But still checked. You probably saved me $400.

[@74beeper97]

Good video man.... One other cause for the stater to become grounded to the case is if the magnets break and chunks of them get wedged between the case and stater windings..... Had this issue on my old 1998 Titan......

[@gabegiguere2501]

I had the same wires it's your magnet connections, they also get dirt and other debris stuck in them that u will never be able to get out. it's the same reason you're getting .5 on your ohm test. I love ur videos keep up the greatness.

[@daveross5314]

John I got a 2016 street glide 4th owner it has a new battery and starter I ride for an hour or so stop to get a drink and it wont restart if I let it sit for about 45 min to an hour it cranks right up. Had it to 3 shops still not fixed . Thanx Dave R in Tennersee

[@garymurdock6398]

I love how you break things down and explain how things work and the way the operate as a system. I’m a new subscriber for sure. Good work my man.

[@ronkatz7159]

Wow!! Great presentation. One of the few techs who know their craft and can explain it without using any of the seven words that can't be used on TV.

[@fredguerra4917]

Excellent video. Thanks for taking the time and creating this educational content. You are my GO to channel for all my HD needs. I was checking out your nice multimeter. It appear to be very similar to my fluke 27/fm with some modern upgrades. My RK classic would not start after leaving the bike with the lights for several minutes. Since the bike died at my friend's house, I was able to get a quick jump using cable batteries and a car. When I got home I fully charged the battery using my trickle charger. Then I proceeded to test it using the multimeter and the old school testing methods. The results were 12.8v at full charge then it dropped to 7.3v when cranking the engine. Furthermore, I purchased a viking digital battery tester and the tester confirmed the battery test results where correct. Both multimeter and battery tester gave me the results of a bad battery. Just for kicks, after replacing the battery I took the old battery and re tested it on my bench, the battery showed 100 percent charged and in good condition. Actually, the numbers were better in this American Made Battery than the NEW Chinese one. I will re test both batteries the new one connected and the old one not connected. I truly hope that I am back to square one with a new battery. Any feedback will most appreciated.

[@JSmith-cj3yr]

Thanks John. Just changed my regulator. Tried the diode test on the new one but didn't work. Old one failed (2011). Same part #, but new has an A. Upgraded maybe.

[@TheHarleyTech]

Yea a variation of the original part number. Could be significant change, could be minor. We never know. We just know it’s different than original.

[@Bushgator]

I have a 2015 Roadking Can you show how to do a clutch adjustment ? And whats the time it takes to adjust my clutch? Thanks and enjoy your videos

[@MrBluesilingus]

I've got an 07 XL1200 Sportster. The start often has a slight lag, as if the battery is weak. The battery checks out good, and reads over 14 volts when running. Then I go to start it and it partially turns over and starts clicking. When I put the trickle on it, it starts like it's fresh. Ride it around the block, and it goes back to acting like a weak battery, clicking. I put an ohm meter on the stator lead and get 0.0

[@RandyPanco]

I have a 1998 1200 sporster. That has this issue. I want to check one more thing first. Where does the rectifier canexts to the bike to charge. I am not sure if the old owner wired it wrong.

[@scottmoss41]

I found this about a year behind everyone else, but I'm a subscriber now...thanks a million, very helpful!

[@joseserrano4596]

I purchased the same exact meter about 2 years ago but didn’t understand how to use it. This definitely helped!!

[@tomconte1765]

To recap: I have a 1983 FXWG, if the battery voltage is good, the bike is charging and the stator is not grounding out then it's most likely the voltage regulator (or wiring in between), correct?

[@congccao5419]

Hi John! Quick question. My 2018 Roadster's speedo is starting to jump numbers, there is a lag when the speed is changing. What shold I do?

[@tonyrotolo]

Tim Horton was a NHL defensemen that was and is loved by many and played up to an old age in hockey standards. He played for Toronto and then the Buffalo Sabres. He died in a horrific car crash on the QEW ( didn’t want to take the team bus) on his way back to Buffalo after a game against the Maple leafs in Toronto, he was in a car that was bought for him in a effort to get him to sign with the Sabres by Punch Imlach the GM for the Sabres. That was a very sad day I will never forget, His coffee is by far one of the best coffees on the market.

[@TheHarleyTech]

Wow. That’s crazy. Thanks for filling me in. I just figured he was some old dude that started a coffee shop.

[@scruffy4647]

Kind of agree with your choice of multimeters, but, there is always a but, your choice of meters should compliment your choice of wrenches. Best meter out there is a Fluke. It's internally protected. It's easy to forget to switch the meter to it's correct setting while performing your test. As an electrician, I work on all sorts of systems, 600 vac, 12vdc, continuity, amp draw, capacitor testing, diodes, etc. The Fluke meter is the best. Very forgiving.

[@raymondgarafano8604]

Nice V&H's short shots, great video, it is good to understand how all the parts of the bike work. I have wide glide, had a stage 1 done, those short shots more free flowing air box and ecm to put more gas into the engine, nice and throaty.

[@ryderr6958]

Nice diagnostic. I like how you broke everything down and made it easy to understand 😅👍🏽

[@MrDenyarnold]

Thanks for showing the older full-phase system; most only show testing for newer 3-phase.

[@augustinecandelaria7531]

I have a 2014 street glide special with aftermarket led’s, headlight, dirty air ride, and digital pressure gauge . I’d like to upgrade to the stage 3 Rockford fosgate sound system. My question is, how will I know if I need to upgrade my charging system before I make this big sound system purchase?

[@pmjn0943]

like this video. my voltage regulator stopped working, lucky for my its replaced under warranty, still cost me 400 bucks to get towed of the freeway on a Sunday night, and i've just bought a mastech MS8268 form amazon,, I believe what caused the part to fail was Id riden through a heavy rain storm the day before causing a ingress of moisture, I had a illuminated red warning light on my speedo, the regulators not in a ideal place on a heritage M8 behined the front wheel,

[@USMCord1]

Would a short in the regulator cause fuel gauge and voltage meter to jump around? Voltage at battery running is 12.49 now.

[@tracypeterson2800]

Thanx bro my 2007 ultra classic the negative connection on batt came lose and was sparking. I tightened it up but now the volt gage is on about 15-16 but then with in a minute or two drops back to about 11 . Do you think its the voltage reg

[@HJ-sn5gt]

When would you need to replace a stator, or is the regulator the most common failure? Thanks for a great video.

[@TheHarleyTech]

If the test results for the stator don’t match the specs in the electrical manual, you have to replace the stator. Once the stator is replaced, you have to recheck charging at the battery to confirm the regulator is working. A lot of guys will replace the regulator when they replace the stator. The regulator seems to go shortly after quite often.

[@NEMCTV6]

Riding down the road and the Volt metering Gauge started moving South to 8v....made it to my garage shut her down...wouldn't start...checked batt read 10v...charged all started...did your test...stator to ground Not Grounded...then phase to phase was 2ohms....probably the R&R? I did not do the pulled fuse test, yet...ran out time.

[@sirloinofbeef120]

What would be a good stator replacement for a shovel

[@jeriangelovich1200]

Told you all about that meter couple of years ago when I went to v-rod school instructor found it at harbor freight also what happens when checking the charging system and all your readings are good but still is not properly working my last check after doing the AC test when the engine is hot is to remove the primary cover and look for smoke don't forget about older bikes when the magnets break loose and come together to give you a bad reading I could go on

[@TheHarleyTech]

The OG at electrical checks! There will be future charging videos, for sure. I shot this one “on lunch” while also on the clock, however that works! I’m glad you reminded me of how I learned about the meter. I think I might have give Sean credit, I knew someone came back from school with some good info. I’ll have to correct myself in the future! I’ve been wondering how you are, hope all is well!

[@ascendantmaster]

Just curious because even though you checked and found the issue before looking at codes, what code would it show if it would even throw a code at all?

[@Freedomridingcompany]

Great video. So, now I do have a question. I have a 2019 Police Road King - Head Light (low beam) keeps burning out. I lost power twice while riding - totally blacked out. The second time it happened, I had to pull the 50 amp main fuse to reset the system and it got the power back. When I start the bike, it labours to start. I bought a new battery but I don't want to put it in because I don't want to ruin the new battery. There is only 2600 miles on the bike. I'm thinking that the Voltage regulator could be the issue. Any thoughts? I rode the bike for about two weeks with no issues. The only thing I did was change the stock pipes and add Tab Performance Slip-ons. Thanks, Joe

[@mrclay50]

The most in-depth explanation of the situation I found on the tube thanks very much.

[@Bushgator]

Low beam doesn’t work on my 2015 Road King replaced with bulb still not working, high beam does work, could you please advise on how to troubleshoot this? Thanks from David in Tampa

[@FreedomRider223]

but what if your battery goes dead while the bike is just sitting? I have a pretty new battery. I can charge it overnight, go for a ride. Shut it off for like 4hrs, won't start. Needs boosting. Or if it sits in the garage for a few days without the battery tender on it, it will not start. I pulled the cable off the starter and found there was something drawing power from another line spliced into the starter cable. What would be splice into that? 2010 FLHP? Does that splice go to the Regulator/rectifier?

[@stunttlr]

@John Maxwell ok so I'm diag on my 88 FXR at 1900rpm I get about 35VAC out of my stator. At about 3k rpm I get about 58 VAC. So it seems like that stator is working. The battery with bike not running key off 12.90VDC, key on 12.56VDC, running 12.35VDC and didnt change regardless of RPM. Reg/rec bad? All wiring is good.

[@fatboydan02]

That moment at 10:05 when your lunch sack lands standing up....coolness level just jumped a notch.Good video as usual.EDIT: Let's see a video where you troubleshoot LIMP MODE.No,not that one,the other one, where your engine light comes on,the bike won't go over 20 mph and you get these two codes P1511 & P2135.

[@ingvarthorson2490]

Hi John, first of all tks for the video. My bike is throwing DTC B2272 and C0563. Hooked the FP3 and while riding battery voltage goes to 17.1 V and taillight and dashboard backlight go out. After sometime all back to normal. Can I say it is the regulator for sure? Tks from Brazil!!!

[@TheHarleyTech]

Yea. The regulator should be keeping it at or below 14.3. I’d replace it!

[@ingvarthorson2490]

@@TheHarleyTech Thanks for taking the time to reply! Part will be delivered tomorrow and I'll replace it! Thanks again.

[@kneesinthebreeze7417]

John bought a portable air pump from my local Harley Davidson the kind that plugs into the pigtal well it kept blowing my fuse on the pigtail took into the Harley and the changed the fuse to a 10 amp will this fuse damage anything else on my bike ? My bike is a 2018 107 breakout

[@Princess748951]

My 2012 xl1200v seventy-two has an issue when setting over night! Im just not sure how to check the suspected problem witch is the wires in left side hand control blinker, horn, turn signal ect!! I do have a meter but not sure where to perform the checks...

[@teresinacambiotti]

Hi! I have a 02 Road King that isn't charging while running. New batteries keep going dead. Replaced the Rectifier and it's still happening. It's it the stator? Thanks for the video.

[@yousefhakhak5661]

I used the same Mastech multimeter. When I'm measuring the battery voltage it reads and appears ohms reading in the display. Then I move the selector from volte to off then back the selector to volte again and it work good. What is the problem with the multimeter?

[@ruyg.penajr.2763]

HI John... thx again for the video... question: can the regulator "overcharge" the battery, causing it to overheat excessively? My brand new battery gets super hot.

[@ozangelus8710]

Hi mate, nice video! I have a 2014 Forty Eight and it's not charging whilst revving the engine. It's not the battery as I changed it to a new one. How do I know if it's the stator or the Regulator Rectifier? I don't really want to shell out money for both. Any advise would be amazing?

[@williammercer6905]

John Maxwell, I have a dumb question for you. I have 2011 FLSTF, and the headlight started being over powered. It would get super bright on low beam, possibly brighter then the high beams. It would only happen once in a while. Well now I cant keep a bulb in it for a day, any ideals?

[@williamjohnson4255]

2015 HD Roadking......After riding for about an hour, my batt light would come on while the bike was running. I could turn off some accessories,...stereo and accent lights and the light would go off. Sitting with the bike off, the battery would register around 12.5 volts, but it would drop as low as 8.6 volts during start up. I replaced the battery and the new Battery maxes out at around 13.84 volts when I rev the motor at around 3000 rpm. Does that sound normal? Wondering if my stator or regulator needs replaced too, and trying not to ruin this new battery finding out. Thanks.

[@garymurdock6398]

Hey John I have an issue with a 2000 Road King. Keeps killing battery

[@RoadKing05FLHR]

Great info John. I recently replaced my battery in the 05 FLHR. The battery was 6 years old so it was due to fail. I noticed a sound when connecting the battery that would seem like the bike is on. Sounds sort of like an electric motor like a fuel pump pressuring up for about two seconds.. Would that be the ignition switch, relay, or normal? Never heard it before that I can recall. Only when connecting the battery. I have never connected the battery on this bike before. Everything seems okay. Bike is charging the battery. Let bike sit for 5 days, battery still hot. Some history on the bike. About 10 years ago the starter was trying to engage going down the road. Did it a couple of times so I disconnected the wire to the starter. Took it to a shop they said nothing wrong. I suggested replacing the starter relay, no more problem with new relay. About 8 years ago fuses were blowing. No speedometer, lights. Stopped by a shop and they found corrosion in the aux light connection. No more issue. About 6 years ago speedometer was sticking, speed off at times. Seemed related to ignition switch. Flipping ignition switch on and off would make a difference Stopped by a shop and they said they cleaned the connections on the ignition switch and speedometer. No more problems. Around 100,000 miles on the bike. Ediit.. I am thinking the noise comes from the speedometer, if that sounds possible, normal. Regards

[@jdwest5612]

I have a 2013 heritage. Sometimes when riding the red light beside the speedo, opposite the 6 gear indicator, will come on. I was told to check all my lights. I found one light blown and I replaced it but every once in a while the light will come back on. Any ideas? Video?

[@marvinr5054]

good video but What about doing the diode test?

[@lazaropalma2411]

Is it true that a bad stator can make bike backfire & sputter ? I have 2005 softail classic fuel-injection . Doing that now ; bike sat for more than 2-years .

[@billwright2176]

I added a cable from the battery for my trickle charger,, it sticks out from under my seat. For checking voltage to the battery do you see any issues of using this cable without pulling the seat off? Or would it being a smaller conductor than the terminals cause false readings?

[@TheHarleyTech]

That’s how I check battery voltage. Well, when it’s available anyway!

[@evillive89]

I have a 84 sporster ironhead that won't charge, I have a new generator and when the bike is running without the regulator hooked up, I'm only getting .26 volts from my generator terminals. Am I just getting bad generators or am I missing a step somewhere other than flashing/polarizing the generator?

[@larrybaker9464]

2013 king. Why does the starter almost always stall when Cranking as though it's trying to push thru a compression stroke. I keep it on a harley maintain charger always between rides. Weekend rider.

[@edburgess2467]

I have a 2011 Superlow. What would be the part # for the electrical manual

[@Bleriotman]

Excellent video. I really enjoyed it, and have subscribed. I have had constant regulator problems with my 2012 FLSTF since I owned it. They had a bad batch apparently, and it was changed under warranty. Then if failed again, and I was out of warranty, so I replaced it. Next, the Stator failed. I have the books and did all the tests, no problem. When I pulled the stator out, 2 elements of the copper windings apparently fused, and fried everything. Put in a NEW STATOR (Rigorously computer tested, of course!) and found it to be dead. Checked it and found it was a dead short on all 3 legs. Didn't think to do a ground test on the new stator before installing it, (It's brand new, right!?!?! What could go wrong?!?!) so it was a really nasty surprise to get the bike completely back together and still have a red charging light. That was on me, I should have checked it. Got ANOTHER NEW STATOR, checked it good per my Harley Electrical Manual, and installed it. Happy road bliss for a few more months. Then another regulator died. Changed it, and a few months later, the new regulator died. I basically have a SACKFULL of burnt out voltage regulators, some HD brand, and some aftermarket. NONE OF THEM HAVE STOOD UP TO USE. Got another battery red light again a few months ago. Checked the stator per the manual. (I now have made harnesses I can plug in and check everything in about 2 minutes) The Stator checks good, for output, and resistance per the HD Electrical Book. So, yet one more regulator. Put it in on Friday afternoon, As soon as I fired up the bike, the red battery light was back on. This is 5 minutes before I am supposed to go to the movies. I was so pissed, I just climbed on and started riding. It's not that long a trip, and I figured I could limp home on what was left of the battery, before the engine ECM shut down. I normally lose my ABS system as the first indication of low voltage. The ride was fine. I'm still riding it. It's still charging OK. WHAT COULD LEAVE THE RED LIGHT ON WHEN IT IS ACTUALLY CHARGING OK? I have over 130K on my bike, and I've ridden it twice to Milwaukee and back for the Harley Celebrations. I RIDE. A LOT. Over really long distances. My longest single day was 879 miles, ending in Dodge City Kansas for that night. I want to go on more trips, but I no longer trust my bike at all. Is there a way to restore it to top operating condition where I am not always waiting for an electrical failure? NOTE: I am taking the bike in to the local HD Dealer (Old Pueblo HD in Tucson) and going to ask them for a full diagnosis of my charging system, on Tuesday after Labor Day. But I would like some knowledge before I do that and they tell me to change the stator and regulator again. Sorry to say, but I have spent MORE on voltage regulators and stators ALONE, than I have spent in TOTAL over the years on my 1979 Yamaha XS11000. I have had to change one wire, and some light bulbs on that over the years. That has been the sum total of my problems with the Yamaha. God, I wish the engineers at HD would pull their heads out of their asses and design stuff that works, AND LASTS more than a year.

[@donwinburn1030]

How about a video explaining why people hear the noise coming from the front of the engine going down the road on a heritage or other 2018 models with the 107. I hear the same racket out of mine. Thanks john, like the videos you put out for us.

[@michelletravers2598]

Is there a particular brand of Regulator that we should purchase if that's in fact the issue? My 2012 Street Glide is not starting, battery keeps going completely dead, and all components were tested. I replaced the regulator early this year, using an Amazon special, approx. $38 and I feel like maybe it was a cheapo brand. Thanks!

[@dillonjohn3976]

Will that stator make enough power to keep the bike running at a idle or will I slowly kill the battery

[@marvinlemond8456]

I have 2013 road king and codes b1006 and b1007 are coming up,, What the bike is doing ; as I am cruising down the road at everything will just shut down , all power and before I can get stopped good , my little alarm key button will start flashing and I start the bike back up and it will run for awhile and do it again ... any suggestions

[@xtremeskier1997]

I wish I had bought this meter when I originally watched this video! This thing has DOUBLED in price!

[@bigmac869]

I'm having issues with brake light not turning off. Issue started when i replaced my grips. I have red warning light on on the speedometer. I have 14 Sportster 1200t superlow.

[@jimregal928]

Very helpful information thank you, just another question not completely off topic I noticed my late model Dyna Road Glide and Road King did not like to be left off the trickle charger for more than 3 weeks is that normal lose voltage and have a slow crank. Thank you Jim...

[@BookerBuilt]

Glad to have found this video, thanks for uploading. Obviously I am have battery problems to even be here. So far I have just blown NEW battery #2, my old Harley legit battery that has been in the bike for about 4 years was starting to die, as in, would fully charge it on a battery charger & get a days riding out of it, park it for the night then DEAD in the morning. So I bought a brand new cheap chinese battery, it had a picture of a Harley on the box & it was a 20L which is specs for my 2011 FXDF Fat Bob, what could go wrong & if anything it had a 12 mth warranty. 2 days worth of riding & I stopped at a store grabbed my stuff jumped back on the bike hit the starter & heard a loud CRACK and the dash went black. Lucky for that warranty. Battery 2, which I then had a autoelec check the charging & new battery, which all came up as per specs, 12+ volts motor off, 14 volts running, he also check the battery drain while the bike was sitting by putting a clamp around the negative wire (to which there was a small draw but as I have an alarm system which is always looking for a fob this was expected & it wasn't excessive. Again 2 days of riding and this time I was doing about 100km/hr (2000 revs) down the road & shut down, everything just stopped, no dash lights no nothing. Battery 3, I am going to replace the regulator before installing this one. Apologies for the log winded comment, just thought I'd throw it out there just in case there are any other suggestions to look for, but after watching your video I am pretty confident now to purchase a new regulator. In Australia I am looking at about $150 so fingers crossed.

[@ericrioux5454]

How does anyone own a Harley and not subscribe to this guy

[@louissauer2134]

New battery in my 14 streetglide went 30 miles battery light came back on?got it home without dieing on the way,stator or voltage reg?

[@jojomo123]

Where would be the best place to order shop repair manuals and every other information source for sportsters online, thank you much

[@chrisphilhower6029]

I bought an OTC 3940 to use at work. When I check the Resistance of the Leads, I get 0 Ohms. Should have shown the Continuity Test. Good way to check for Short to Ground. Even in the Wiring. My OTC is TRMS. True RMS reading on AC. More Accurate. Don't forget the Alligator Clips and Back Probing pins. Years ago I bought a Fuse Bypass kit. Basically it plugs into the Fuse socket. And has short leads with Alligator clips. I can attach my DVM or a Resettable Circuit breaker.

[@TheHarleyTech]

Baby steps man, not everybody is a tech by trade! Besides, I gotta have future content! The leads that came with the meter show 0. Those magnetic things are a waste of coin.

[@iancampbell6191]

Hope you like the coffee. Thank You for the honourable mention. You may have seen the movie but either way it’s awesome so if you already have it, feel free to regift it. Looking forward to your next video. After that comment about the crappy day video (from David Garino below) my wife enlightened me cuz I hadn’t seen it yet. Wow that was disturbing and now I’m scarred for life !!!

[@scottfinch9197]

So if I get ohms reading on the stator to ground on the battery I need to replace it?

[@rogermaxwell7489]

I have a 1989 heritage softball classic. I had put a new stator n rectangular n the one day my bike started running like shit n i thought it was my carb well i ended up finding a broken wire on my coil n i fixed the wire n that fixed the problem of running like shit but when the bike started running like shit well my battery would go dead after i would run it for about 50 to 60 miles so my question is do u think that mayb the broken coul wire could have shorted out the regulator because i can not start the bike for afew days or even a week n itll start rite up

[@eaglef28]

Cool video, thank you! I have a 2012 FLHTCU and the engine light and battery light came on the other day. It has the P0562 code. The battery is less than 2 years old and I keep it on a trickle charge. The volt gage showed 13 and when revved went up to about 15. I'm going to use your tips to check things with a multimeter but I'm leaning to it being a regulator issue.

[@marklangley5692]

Great video but my problem is 2006 ultra classic voltage gage reads erratic not charging then charging but volt meter shows constant charging when it goes from 14+ to nothing going to check for loose wires at gage

[@TheHarleyTech]

That’s what I would do.

[@jasonsullivan5448]

If I need more power DC can a larger regulator help not sure if that can even do that. And so there is a manual you get at store and you said service manual; is that Harley tech service manual or is there one in addition to that one? Thanks

[@jockeyshift4124]

J M been watchin your vids a while and finally subscribed with this one as having a quality multi tester is a MUST for any level of mechanic and I agree you found a way above average unit..Am in ATL and work only on pre 1984 scooters,the last 40 years as a career machinist,always have a couple for sale,and build /ride nothing but old school choppers and Ford trucks..Am currently looking for a post 55 genny bottom end to get the word out.. I got a place in Fla too ,so I'll stop in sometime...Folks take it from John and myself,the key to making a small battery last is maintenance... I've had 6 volt units last many seasons. Theres no need to spend $300 on lithium ion. The regular SLA AGM I recommend and install ,some are under $50 and all under 100 depending on model with a 18 month replacement warranty.. Add this milli tester to your box whether you're old school like me or not, you;ll be glad you did..

[@RandomDad]

Where do you get service manuals? Does it have to be a book? Is a PDF version available?

[@matthewchase3905]

Is there a problem when ohm testing the stator and it’s not OL but reading 0.000?

[@roberthill724]

I’m going through this now on my 12 FLSTFB new regulator on the way. I was wondering why you said you can’t test the regulator. Was it just because it wasn’t a 3 phase? I found videos on testing the diodes on 3 phase regulators which helped me.

[@ronaldcrossman1950]

My 95 heritage takes a slight charge from my tender after every ride for about 30 minutes before it goes green again. Is this normal to have the battery slightly in need of s small charge after riding?

[@DonnieAustin]

99 FXD , Plug from stator seems to keep gettin Oil in it although it is not from Oil change , Have you ever seen that problem?

[@Topsyrm]

Hey John, I'm having some big trouble with my 2000 Sportster S, it won't run good under load. I have changed the ignition module and coils/plugs plus the regulator was overcharging (17.5 volts) so I changed that thinking it might be the cause but still running rough, backfiring and even stalling when warmed up and riding on the road. It will tick over just fine on the stand and even rev all the way up to 4000 but as soon as I ride it and put it under load back to running rough. I can't get more than 3 miles without failure. I have checked the carb and it seems clean enough and in operation without the air cleaner on I can see the fuel squirting from the accelerator pump and the slide goes up and down freely on demand of the throttle. Grateful for any advice, it's doing my head in. My next step is to change out the MAP Sensor which I've just picked up from my local dealership.

[@TheHarleyTech]

I’d start more simple than that. How old is the gas (most common thing I see is bad gas). Spark plugs, and spark plug wires are all things I see cause problems under load. What you’re chasing generally causes running issues all together. The way I’m reading your problem everything is fine until you get moving.

[@Topsyrm]

@@TheHarleyTech Hey John, thanks for the quick response. Yes everything is fine until I'm moving. Gas is not old and the same as I am using in my 92 FXR and 56 Pan. Plugs and Plug leads are new so not them I hope. I guess I'll just keep swapping parts until it's fixed. I have been told possibly the Cam Position Sensor (possible) or Bank Angle Sensor (unlikely). Vacuum harness seems to be good but I can't get a new one anyway so If that is the last component not changed I'll have yo fab something from standard automotive vacuum hose.

[@mtb_noobie1230]

I have a 2012 super glide. It gets high voltage spike lights get bright for a second. Dash lights go out. Get a code b2272. And sometimes my rpm goes to 1600 idling. Any advice would be appreciated. Oh along with codes there is a pn 67096-12

[@56WagonWheel]

Hi my 07 deluxe shuts off momentarily when riding. Speedo goes to zero then runs normal again. Have had it from new and it’s stock, any ideas where to start looking. I was thinking it’s electrical but I’m no expert

[@905fredy123]

we are looking for some help please..... 1999 Classic belonging to one of my friends was not putting out enough voltage to the battery. He replaced the battery. Still the same after. Sparky checked Stator for continuity-good, Checked stator for ac output-good. We decided to replace the regulator/rectifier-still not good. Bought and installed new stator-better but just 12.3 at idle. What next?

[@dfedxb1]

I had a simular problem on my Yamaha R1, and the manual had steps to do a diode check with a multi-meter on the regulator/rectifier. Does the Harley manual not have this check for the regulator/rectifier?

[@randyhubler9904]

recently My Son borrowed my 09 street bob while I fixed his intake leaks on his 96 sporty. then a lady pulled in front of him at 40 mph! he is fine just lose some skin. The bike however skidded into a pickup and damaged the rear wheel, shocks. can you let us know what else to look for on a collision bike? Thank you

[@brandonthomas8209]

I have new battery went out to dinner on 01 low rider came out battery was dead pushed started it ran fine about a mile into the ride at a stop light my Speedo gage and tach gage went crazy along with the bike sputtering then completely dying tried hitting the starting button and nothing happened got a tow home any thoughts on this please and thank you

[@lionellavallee1919]

what if the numbers on the multimeter didn't go higher then 24 volts on the voltage test. would that be a bad stator??

[@dustanjohnson792]

Can you make a video on the regulator? Please