'06 SG. Volt gauge reads 15 (what it has always read) when the rpm's are up but drops to 12 at idle. Has been doing this for awhile. Have not had any problems with it starting or the battery etc. 36,000+ miles now, has been doing this for probably the last 1,000. Any idea's? Thanks guys!

 

That's normal. I am surprised if it was at 15 at an idle ever. Not doubting you, just sayin'.

 

13.8 is actually where is should be going down the road but taking into consideration the accuracy of the gauges now days it should be fine.. Typically the charging systems charge better with higher rpm . Im sure they could do better and get 13.8 at an idle but its a money deal.

 

The thing I found odd was as I stated 3+ years and 36,000 miles and now it fluctuates like an oil pressure gauge. Before, it held steady @ just under 15 (according to the gauge,I realze that it was less) no matter if it was idling or under load. I guess time will tell. I have just never had the Volt gauge move around like this on any of my previous bikes, or this one for that matter.

 

Sounds like a voltage regulator to me. I don't think it's normal. Especially since it didn't act that way before. My '08 is steady no matter what rpm or electrical load. Try loading up the electrics (lights, horn, etc) while watching the volt meter. See if the voltage drops when you load it up at both idle and at higher rpm. It should stay steady and not drop. Like wise, when you take the load off it shouldn't rise. It could also be a weak stator? See if you can find a resistance value for the stator and check it with an ohm meter.

 

+10 on the voltage regulator possibly being on the fritz! My 04 Electra did this jumping crap last year on the way back from Michigan. It would be ok for a while on the interstate, then drop, then go back up around 14-15 (normal spot) then drop, then check engine light comes on, then pulled over and jiggled wires, made sure they were where they should be etc. Made it home OK, took it to the local dealer (yuck) and they hooked it up to the computer and at that time it was "OK" according to them. Left a couple weeks later for Texas and made it to Southern Indiana where it died and had to be towed to Bud's Harley where I bought it from. Several hundred dollars and a new voltage regulator later and it's been running right ever since. Heck, might be worth it to start shopping around on ebay for a new one and try and save some $$$ now while you can.

Good luck to you.

 

Thanks guys! I assumed it was probably the regulator or stator. Mine was produced during a time (Dec. '05) that had a regulator recall. Supposedly the dealer checked and said mine was not affected, even though it fell in the middle of the recall dates (as I remember, 3 years ago is a long time for this guys memory ). Might have them double check it for me the next time I have it in. Doing a 4,500 mile trip thru the Southwest in a couple of months and would prefer not to be stranded. LOL

 

l"ve got a brand new "in the box" Cycle Electric Rectifying Voltage Regulator if you're interested. PM me. You can check em out on their web site. The one I've got fits a 2000 Touring model, but I think they're the same to 2007. Let me know.

 

I appreciate the offer but have warranty if something needs replaced.