1986 VFR700F electrical problem solved (R/R replacement tips inside)

I'm sure this has been covered many times over, but I'm just excited after fixing my bike, so had to share.

Symptoms: bike ran after being started with a jump start, but the battery wasn't charging. After some troubleshooting using the FSM and other helpful online sources , decided to replace the rectifier/regulator. Bike has ~20k miles on it. Instead of stock, went with one from a 2008 GSX-R, which is a Shindengen FH0016AA. MOSFET - cooler-running, more efficient, longer-lasting. Many available on eBay for $50.

Problem went away - my battery now charges and the bike starts on its own, which is amazing. Nothing like some electrical gremlins to make you appreciate the simple things in life.

On a slightly different note. Tried to do a compression test, just for peace of mind, with a tester loaned from Advance Auto Parts and an Equus adapter (Amazon.com: Equus 3618 Adapters for Compression Tester: Automotive), but no luck. The dial barely moved away from 0. Tried two cylinders, same result. The bike runs well, so I know there must be compression, so I'm blaming a bad seal somewhere. After all, I had the tester connected through two adapters - 14mm->14mm->12mm. Will give it another short with a different tester... what could I be doing wrong?

 

is there a bleed off valve on the tester? that or you are not screwing it in right... :crazy:

 

Don't forget to hold the throttle wide open.

 

There is a bleed off valve, but it wasn't open and there was no air coming out of it.

Yes, was holding throttle wide open...