Forum

[Exile]

OK, I've been trying to get Thumper (2003 Bullet 500) back into working condition. The electrics died last year and it's been a pain to get it back. I have power to the ignition switch, flasher unit, lights and horn when I have the battery charger connected. No spark. Remove the battery charger and although the battery tells me it's delivering 12V, I have no power again. (It's a gel battery...)

Any thoughts lads? Help.

[papasmurf]

12v not enough I suspect the battery is duff.

[Adrian]

Oh, the poetry! Watch out Scalyback.



I suspect papasmurf is right though. If the rest of the electrics are sound you should be able to start and run the bike with a capacitor wired in in place of the battery, assuming you still have points fitted. AC headlights on a 2003 shouldn't be affected.



For example: http://www.rexs-speedshop.com/epages/es ... oducts/BE1



If you have electronic ignition some (eg Boyer Bransden Mk3) might not get enough power at kick-over speeds, others like the BB Mk4 or a Pazon should be happier.



By the way, power TO the ignition switch is one thing, are you getting any power out of the other side? Sorry, had to ask...



A.

[Exile]

Adrian: I must. Because the lights won't work without the ignition being switched on, nor the horn, nor blinkers. which they do.. The ammeter deflects when I kick him over...
I too have a suspicion that Papasmurf may be right, so the next step is a new battery. Electronic ignition fitted. No points.

[Adrian]

My lights on ASBO12 died this evening, presumably out of sympathy for Thumper (a good magneto got me home, fortunately) so I'll be checking my battery and/or charging system tomorrow.



A.

[Alan R]

Hi Guys------ It's a Gel battery you say ??....then you'll need one of the so-called "Intelligent" chargers rather than the old style fixed amps charger....Something like the Optimate that our hosts sell..