Triumphrat

Trudie · 08-29-2005

Recently I purchased a new 12V battery for my bike. Normally during daylight hours, I run the bike with the headlight on. Apperrently, given the stock configuration of the 1969 Triumph electrical system, running the headlight all the time can drain the battery. I heard this is because the original alternator is not large enough to produce a recahrge to battery thats being taken by the headlight. I've been suggested to maybe switch out to a larger atlernator that would produce a larger electrical supply back to the battery. Any thoughts appreciated.

Pig9r · 08-29-2005

From about 2500 rpms up you should be generating enough juice to at least break even. Is your ammeter mainly bouncing on the positive side while riding? Also are your electrics stock set up? I have electronic ignition and halogen headlight bulb and never have had any charging probs. The charging system isn't the best, the lights do dim at idle etc, however it is good enough to set these bikes up to run batteryless. Before tearing into the engine to replace the alternator I would start searching for a short somewhere. In fact, I have never heard of an alternator upgrade.

Just FYI you can buy a battery charger it might be cheaper than buying a new battery every time it dies. :wink:

DAGAD · 08-29-2005

Hi Trudie, there shouldn't be a problem with the stock RM21 stator, but you can fit a hi output low rev stator or even convert to the RM23, 3 phase 180 watt system used on the T140E. Roy