Hitchcocks Forum

Having just purchased a 1977 Indian Enfield 350 Bullet that is a 6 volt and not charging, I was quite surprised to find it positive earth. Is this normal for this bike or has someone got their wires literally crossed?

Not sure about Enfields but 6volt neg earth wasn't unusual in those days.

I have a 1972 model 350 that also is negative earth.

Most British classic vehicles used positive earth: Please read.......http://www.daviescraig.com.au/POSITIVE_ ... -news.aspx....... In practice, on a motorbike, it makes little difference, unless modern electronic items are going to be fitted for the reason already mentioned. However, if we are to believe POS earthing give better sparks and less battery terminal corrosion I would leave all classic bikes the same way they were designed. Don’t change from Neg earth if electronic equipment is fitted as is the case with Indian Bullets.

If it isn't charging now might be a good time to set it up 12 volt neg earth and then you can push on like the rest of the modern world.12 volt stator,rec/reg unit, battery and a couple of globes

Following a few weeks working on my son's trials bike, today I finally found time.... after being away at the Manx..... to check this Enfield out. Not only has it got positive earth but I've also come across, located in the tool box something called a "Rooster Booster". When I bought it they said it was a gadget to boost the spark. However, also missing is the regulator and rectifier so I assume this thing replaces them but I didn't think you could do things like that with 6 volt. Now when I went to look at the bike she fired up no trouble but it's become obvious that some work is required to get her sorted. Hopefully not too much.

Sounds like you have one of these fitted. http://www.roosterignitions.com/

I think you will find the rooster booster only effects the ignition side and has nothing to do with the charging system, it is an electronic switch that is activated by the original points so the field wiring in the coil can be collapsed faster resulting in a better spark at the plug.For the charging ,why not consider something like the power box supplied by Mr H which does away with rectifier and regulation done by the light switch making the system much simpler to wire up

-----------wasn't the OXO Cube (Chicken flavour) known as a "rooster booster" as well ?? Please don't get the two mixed up on your bike-----

I'll check out Mr H's power box as recommended.