Cómo comprobar el sistema de carga Harley-Davidson

Checking the 3 -step cargo system

On this occasion, we are going to perform an eminently practical tutorial to check if the loading system of any motorcycle works correctly.

Before starting with the tests, we will briefly define the components:

The alternator

It consists of a rotor with magnets or magnetic dish, which revolves around a fixed winding called a stoist. Variations in the magnetic field of coils generate alternating current (such as the one we have at home). The faster the engine revolves, the more voltage we get.

The rectifier-regulator

The alternating current is not too useful in a motorcycle, since it does not allow the operation of electronic devices. That is why at the exit of the alternator the regulator is placed, which converts the alternating current into a continuous current, with positive and negative. This is called rectifying the current.

At the same time, the regulator controls that it does not reach too much voltage to the electrical components, to protect them, eliminating excess current through the chassis.

The battery

It is an element that allows you to store energy from the regulator. In this way, when the engine is stopped or works at low revolutions we can have current to move the starter engine, lights and other electronic components.

Another very important function of the battery is that of electric “shock absorber”, filtering the current that comes from the alternator and through the regulator, so that the electronic components work with great precision and stability.

Test in three steps

To perform a rapid checking of the load system we only need a multimeter capable of reading direct and also alternate current. We will proceed as follows:

• We put the multimeter in alternate voltage measurement (VAC), disconnect the alternator connector, start the engine and measure the outlet. We should obtain about 40V, which progressively increase if we accelerate (it is essential to consult the data manual data for each year and motorcycle model, as this measurement varies greatly). Si el alternador funciona correctamente pasamos a la siguiente prueba.

• With the standing engine and contact in "OFF", we measure continuous voltage (VDC) in the battery terminals. It should be 12V or greater. Arrancamos el motor y volvemos a medir. The voltage should climb up to 13v or more. With this test we have checked the battery status and the rectifier operation. We go to the next test.

• While measuring as in the previous step, we accelerate and check how the voltage is raising, until it stabilizes around 14V although we will accelerate more. This indicates that the current regulator is doing its function correctly, this point can also be verified with the motorcycle voltmeter itself, if it has it.

Check these 3 points will not take us more than 5 minutes, and we can know if the load system works properly or if there is any problem in any of the components. Como siempre, consulta el manual de taller para conocer los valores específicos concretos para la moto con la que estás trabajando.

Frank Burguera

#mecanicaharley