Topic: '74 550 - battery keeps dying

[solid_jackson]

I know this is a frequent problem, but I thought that I had gotten the parts I needed to avoid it. The battery dies on me after letting it sit for like 3 days. I have put an aftermarket rectifier/regulator on it, all new wiring harness, dynatech coils/electronic ignition w/ceramic plug leads. Any advice?

[TwoTired]

Do you now have more than a 150 watt load on the system?

And, do you keep the engine revved above 3000 RPM always (where the alternator can make that 150 Watts)?

3 ohm coils and a Dyna -S  increase electrical load by about 60 Watts.  Whereas the stock bike draws about 120 watts whenever the key switch and lights are on.

[phil71]

Did you test the stator?

[bollingball]

Not sure what parts did you use to avoid this? Wait a minute. Are you saying the battery dies with out running it for three days? Just sits there 3 days and the battery dies?
Ken

[scottly]

Welcome to the forum, Jackson. If the battery only dies after sitting without running for 3 days, but is fine if you run it every day, it implies your charging system is working and keeping up with demand, and something is slowly draining the battery when it sits idle for extended periods. We really need a more detailed description of the problem. Do you have a multi-meter?

[bollingball]

Welcome to the forum, Jackson. If the battery only dies after sitting without running for 3 days, but is fine if you run it every day, it implies your charging system is working and keeping up with demand, and something is slowly draining the battery when it sits idle for extended periods. We really need a more detailed description of the problem. Do you have a multi-meter?

+1 scottly I'm not sure if it was running or not.  OP Did not say enough.
Ken

[scottly]

We were thinking the same thing, at the same time, Ken. I just type slower.