[Bubby]

I have a 96 1500 SE that is solid performer. I recently took a 1000 mile trip and have been experiencing electrical problems. I am trying to determine if as battery has a open or the alternator is the problem.

The last stop on my trip while fueling the bike cut off. No display, no electrical response from any of the controls. I opened the battery compartment and tighten the connections on the battery which were not lose and the bike comes back to life. I ride another 75 miles and again the bike dies. Again I open the battery compartment and tap the battery and bike comes back to life. I am able to start and ride off.

A week later and I am out riding in the mountains and bike dies. We go through the same routine of tapping the battery and back to life she comes. I notice as the rpms fall below 1500 is when the bike dies. Battery is new and easily starts the bike when power is restored. Wiring appears to be normal and no visible signs of a short to the frame. Suggestions??? I have considered the battery is open and the tapping restores the circuit. When the throttle is above 1500 rpm the alternator is providing enough "power" to operate the bike. I have run the normal checks. Voltage and alternator charging input voltage.

 

[Bubby]

Could the silicon rectifier the sits behind the battery and atop the exhaust system be the culprit? Appears when the bike is hot the problem is worse. Also when riding if you use turn signals or brakes the lights go dim like we are getting only voltage out of the battery. I checked the dog bone fuse, 30 amp fuse that sits beside the starter relay. All connections are tight and free of corrosion. Battery voltage is 13.10 volts.

 

[Bubby]

Thanks, I just learned something.

 

[Bubby]

I'm thinking alternator problems? Any other suggestions??