Capacitor question

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George Greer
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Bikes: 1942 WLA Type III
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58 FL
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Capacitor question

#1

Post by George Greer »

All,

I am getting ready to do the wiring on my 58FL project and I have a question.

I have a schematic from a 1966 Sportster CH, and on the diagram it show's a capacitor connected to the voltage regulator, item 13 connected to terminal 61 and a black wire connected to what appears to be terminal D-

What is the capacitor for within this schematic and will it hurt anything to use one on my build?

From memory when rebuilding my WLA, capacitors were used in various locations to prevent radio interference static noise and help burning out points.

If no harm can be done, I will use one.

Thanks.

George
kitabel
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Re: Capacitor question

#2

Post by kitabel »

The CH had a magneto but no battery, which acts as a buffer and storage tank for excess charging voltage spikes. That regulator also had a lower maximum voltage setting than the battery-equipped models.
The capacitor takes over that function, which prevents the lights from blowing out when the generator output is highest at high RPM.
You don't need it, don't think it can hurt.
George Greer
Senior Member
Posts: 1957
Joined: Tue Nov 09, 2004 6:02 am
Bikes: 1942 WLA Type III
Hybrid WL/KH bobber project.
58 FL
Location: Markt Einersheim, Bayern
Has thanked: 972 times
Been thanked: 259 times
Contact:

Re: Capacitor question

#3

Post by George Greer »

Thank you for the reply.

I am using a 65A that with Dr. Frankenstein's advice, I rebuilt using a NOS 6 Volt armature and 12 Volt field coils.

It should be a sturdy generator, I am also using LED lighting on motorcycle, the headlight is also LED with a microprocessor and cooling fan built in.

I am just looking to see if I could possibly "upgrade" the electrical system.

Again,

Thank you.

George

PS, I will use one.
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