Another electrical question - 98, VFR800

As you may, or may not know, I've just picked up a 98 VFR800.

Now as I don't know for what has been done to fix the electrical issues, I've had a quick look under the seat before I get to do the proper tests with a voltmeter.

The Reg unit is a replacement unit, as it has another workshops sticker on the back that you can see and the code is as follows; SH579B-11. This appears to be a Ducati replacement part.

Also, the bike came with a Mechanical Report from the dealer, which included an electronics test. The results include;
- Starter Test cranking volts 10.15V
- Charging Test, Idle 14.30V and Rev 14.30V

So does anyone know of this SH579B-11 unit? And these preliminary results? Should I order the MOSFET replacement unit?

 

Hey Sam

The numbers look OK for idle and rev at 14.3V. Though I have not seen a unit that provides 14.3V at idle (I recall it should be at least 13 V from what I was told when my R/R was having issues) I think you are good as long as the voltage doesn't spike above 15 V when riding (again I remember someone else mentioning this). As for the part number on the R/R, I can not say for certain whether the part is from Honda or Ducati. I would expect a voltage drop when the starter is engaged as it draws a large amount of current from the battery and I'm sure someone here can either prove me correct or else direct me to the place where BAD people go if I am wrong.

The best thing to do would be to use a multimeter and check the charging system for yourself just to be sure. Here is a link to the procedure that I used when checking the charging system on my bike. Many thanks to Rubo, Mello Dude and Pliskin for their assistance during my dark period.........

http://vfrworld.com/forums/mechanics-garage/39362-2000-vfr-r-r-question.html

There was a lot of good information offered up from assistance in how to check the system as well as who to see about replacements and where to go for them. Good Luck

 

Sam - I googled the part # you provided, followed by the word rectifier. It comes back as a R/R from a 2001 Ducati.

I didn't bother to research any further than that, but you should

Get a multi meter, then follow the links provided by Zoom Zoom and Mellow Dude. Happiness awaits you at the end of the thread if you follow the directions.

 

Thanks guys, will be checking with multimeter in the next week or so.

Is it worth getting a MOSFET unit with kit from the US anyway as a precaution as it has the upgraded wiring?

 

Maybe its just me but i wouldnt have no stinkin ducati part anywhere near my honda.

 

Thanks Mello Dude, Voltmeter was ordered the day after I got the bike !!

Looks like I will get the MOSFET kit, just to be safe.

 

Judging by the 14.3 volts at idle and at higher rpms. The unit you have might be a mosfet already. The shunt types usually put out close to 13 v at idle and go up with rpms. After I upgraded to a Fh010 mosfet I was getting 14.4 V from idle throughout the rev range.

 

I have the newer Mosfet type on my gen 5 VFR and get 14.3 at both idle and advanced rpms. Don't rush to buy a replacement rectifier until you verify the type you have as it may well be a Mosfet type...check on a Ducati forum.

 

Ok, so we managed to do some tests today with the trusty multimeter, to confirm the readings from the dealer's diagnostics.

Battery with no ignition on - 12.80v
Battery at idle - 14.28v to 14.30v
Battery at 5,000rpm - 14.30v

Reg check (disconnected) - all 0.01

Reg wiring on idle - all 23 to 24.3
Reg at 5,000rpm - all around 68.5

 

I was just kidding about theducati bashing. If it works it works. But that does seem odd to have the same output at idle and 5k. If it were me i would get the r/r and wiring harness from ricks or wiremybike i think it is. I cant really remember where i got mine as i ordered it through my shop. Somebody will correct me if im wrong. After you do that you wont have any more worrys with it.

 

Yes Mellodude, the last numbers are the stator check.

The voltmeter is on its way and will be installed ASAP to monitor, then go from there.