Topic: Electrics 101

[gags355]

Working on my k8 which was last registered in 1990.  Before the work started, all lights - main/brake/indicators worked ok,  In my haste, I connected  the battery incorrectly - poles switched for a split second - enough to mess things up. 

So my question is, what needs replacing on the electrical side.   Front indicators are on solid, the indicator flasher no longer works - so I'm guessing the flasher unit along with the relay?

Thanks in advance.

[Vinhead1957]

I'm guessing recharge battery.  Clean all grounds to frame and check fuses. That where I would begin.  Get a good wiring diagram in tech info and a meter

[Bodi]

Reversed battery polarity?
That fries stuff rather instantly with a good battery.

Unplug the rectifier as it's almost certainly fried and can fail "short" - that can cause melted wiring so unplugging it is the best idea until you figure out whats happened. Test it, but doubtful its still good.

I'm not sure what else the K8 has: if it has a starter safety module then that's probably dead as well and should be disconnected. If it has a starter interlock diode remove and test that.

If you have points ignition, good: almost any electronic ignition will be damaged.

A stock signal flasher will be fine but an electronic one might be blown (some are protected, some aren't).

Electromechanical regulator will be OK, electronic probably not. Does K8 still use the electromechanical one?

Other stuff doesn't care about polarity. Sure the starter motor would go the wrong way but it wouldn't hurt it.

[flybox1]

new harnesses are available for $100
I have a few Vregs and rectifiers laying around.  yours for postage.
let me know.