Misc: Charging Systems Series ‘C’ Rapide Battery Not Charging

Peter Holmes

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VOC Member
My advice would be never start off with a discharged battery, I now have a Grosset electric start so always keep my battery topped up, once the starter has been used the ammeter shows a heavy charge for a second or two to replace what has been used by the starter and then settles very quickly to a central balance, that is using a Walkernator with a Nippon Denso, fantastic bit of kit, never let me down, fit and forget, carry a spare belt but never had to use it, never had a problem with the primary drive chain or sprockets, doesn't look standard, who cares!
 

danno

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Non-VOC Member
Hi
Just tidying up the wiring in the headlamp. I think it would be useful to keep the
red ignition/charge light.
The orange indicator lens/bulb holder is broken. The bulb with red lead was held in place with BluTak.
Charge bulb and holder also shown.
As these aren’t standard items, is there anywhere in the U.K that supplies classic bike electrical/lighting accessories?
Thanks
 

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stumpy lord

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Non-VOC Member
Hi
The red charge light on my C Rapide isn’t going out whilst riding. The ampere meter is showing 2 on discharge.
The bike is fitted with Lucas Rita 12v ignition and while it starts ok, the battery is showing 10.5 volts after a run.
I’m not sure whether it’s the battery or the charging system that’s the problem.
Any help appreciated.
try Vehicle Wiring Products. they stock a huge selection of automotive electrical parts
www.vehicleproducts.co.uk phone number 0115 9305454

they are based at 9 buxton court, mannersindustrial estate, ilkiston, derbyshire, DE7 8EF. U.K.
 

danno

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Non-VOC Member
I bought some of these, For the next time I do electrics, They do, 2, 4, and 6 pin types, Only about £6 for a male / female pair, I might have to use a sealer, To keep the weather out. Cheers Bill.

Just wiring up the Alton and regulator.
The Miller and JG converter were connected with these in the pic. I have spares so will solder the plugs straight on to the bare wires of the Alton and Podtronics regulator.
Like the idea of the locking plugs. Tamiya RC type I think.
 

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danno

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Non-VOC Member
I have the Alton and regulator wired up. The ignition/charge bulb is joined in with one of the black Alton leads. The bulb’s other lead is connected to the ignition switch but it doesn’t light when switched on.
The bulb’s ok and it’s wired in the same as the JG.
Doesn’t matter too much as the ammeter works fine but it is useful as it’s coil ignition.
Will have a go at drilling through the sprocket Allen bolts for lockwire but will probably just start the bike first to see if it charges ok.
 
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