Re: Newbie needs some help!

Posted by LukeM on Oct 18, 2011; 7:58pm
URL: http://vintage-and-classic-hondas.81.s1.nabble.com/Newbie-needs-some-help-tp3386691p3432321.html

In the engine is a good idea, especially if you have to spin the nut off to get it out of there.

If you want, you could use some greaseless/oilless contact cleaner to clean the brushes, and the contact surfaces.  How to tell if it's greaseless?  Spray some on your fingertips, wait for the wet stuff to dissipate, then rub your fingers together.  If it feels oily, don't use it.  If it feels dry, then spray as needed.  

If you have an ohmmeter available, you should measure between the 2 rings, as Sarge suggested.  You should get between 2 and 5 ohms.  A 'bouncing around' reading may be some dirt on the rings where your lead touches, or it might be an intermittent connection on the rotor.  If it's not in that range, it may be time to get it replaced.  $169 sounds a little steep to me.  You may have better luck at a MC junkyard.  Just make SURE they show you the resistance measurement on the rings before you buy it.  Some shops won't let you return electrical parts purchased.

Also, check the connection of the 3 yellow wires.  There should be NO burn marks or loose connections there. Some people will bypass that connector, and solder them directly across. This takes care of the connector burning problem, but makes the regulator/rectifier harder to replace.  Your choice.

Luke M