charging / electrical problem? 86 FLHTC
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Joined: Apr 2014
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From: upstate NY
charging / electrical problem? 86 FLHTC
so while at idle, if i turn on headlight or driving lights, the motor draws way down and often stalls if i dont keep the RPMs up. also tonight my radio stopped working. its getting some power as it dimly shows the time but wont turn on or play music. im pretty sure my battery is no good and im picking up a new one tomorrow. could it just be that? or do i have another issue?
86 FLHTC
86 FLHTC
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Joined: Apr 2014
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From: upstate NY
new battery helped. radio mysteriously started working again. so all good i guess...lol. still have an issue though. when the blinkers are on i get about a 2 volt drop when the lights come one. im switching to LEDs with a load manager probably next weekend. should this fix that problem or is there another issue?
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Joined: Apr 2007
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From: Brighton, MI
You really need to check your charging system. As mentioned Dr. Hess sticky, or at least put a meter on the battery terminals (sounds like you did to get the voltage drop with the turn signals). Anyhow, tell us what voltage is at idle, at 1500 rpms, etc. The concern is, are you getting enough DC volts? Would hate to see you down on the side of the road. YD
Last edited by Yankee Dog; May 6, 2018 at 04:35 PM.
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2007
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From: Brighton, MI
In my opinion, your volts are a little low. Especially at idle. Are these numbers from a volt meter or the bikes voltage gauge? I would be digging a little deeper...checking wiring, connections, AC stator output, etc. YD
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From: Haslet Texas
Don't trust those.
Once again get a multi-meter and go through the sticky.
Something ain't working right as you should have at least 14 volts at speed.
Once again get a multi-meter and go through the sticky.
Something ain't working right as you should have at least 14 volts at speed.
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Joined: Apr 2014
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From: upstate NY
ok. if it makes any difference, the guy i bought it from claims he upgraded to a 32amp charging system. not sure i believe him. he also said it was a relatively fresh rebuild and i had to put new head gaskets on last weekend.