Topic: Regulator/rectifier question!

[silent_k]

Hi all, I'm trying to diagnose my charging system on my 1980 cb650 before a long ride this week. when I disconnect the power line coming out of my regulator rectifier (going into my solenoid) I read a voltage of ~20-60v. When that power line(red wire) is then plugged back in to my solenoid my battery voltage is in the 13-14 range (depending on rpm).
Is it bad news that my voltage coming it of my regulator rectifier is is so high , or is it ok?

Cheers!

[Bodi]

I've never tried this test - current is more meaningful at that connection - but I don't think it's a problem. The AC alternator will produce fairly high voltage like that if you measure at the disconnected yellow wires. With no load (with the DC output disconnected as described) the rectified voltage would be high as well. With battery load the voltage will be limited to a bit above battery voltage (from the voltage drop in the wiring).
13-14VDC at the battery while running is pretty good. With a fully charged battery and RPM above 3000 or so you should get roughly 14.5V. After sitting a while after shutdown the battery should settle at ~12.5VDC. Using the electric starter for even one start will discharge the battery a bit, and the voltage will be lower for a time while it's charging if your system is working properly.