Charging control gear

Technical Big Block Spine frame models
1

The MK1 LeMans I’m trying to restore has what appears to be uber primitive control gear for the alternator. It appears that the field is controlled from the slip rings and that there are three phases for the output from the outer windings although there seems to be another mystery wire coming from the windings on the other side.

I am having to make a brand new custom loom for the bike as we’re using period Kawasaki handlebar switches and owner has supplied me an electronic ignition unit that has the pickups on the end of the alternator shaft. It would make sense to use a modern transistorised control unit?

The alternator itself looks pretty OK. I do note that Electrex World do make a complete replacement alternator unit with mosfet reg/rec. , but knowing my luck this will be incompatible with the electronic control sensors?

I may as well dump those hideous fuses in favour of blade fuses that can be sourced in the event of a side of the road break down.

The owner has also given me a Mistral Exhaust system which I assumed should attach to the footrest hangers, but the brackets are no where near - Any thoughts? I had the bike delivered in boxes and have never worked on one before so have no idea where any of this should go!

2

The Bosch charging set up may be primitive, but it is actually quite good and simple. It works well if you look after the connections. There is a full explanation of the system here….

3

As Don has stated, the Bosch Charging system is primative but works very well if kept upto scratch and bearing in mind the system on your bike is 40 years old, its entitled to be a little crusty! Just make sure all connections are tight and clean!

Electrixworld make a very good Reg/Rect for the Bosch system which also works very well. I have one on my MkII LeMans and no issues.

Why the custom loom? If you use Switchgear that has all controls on the L/H side with just the Start/Kill switch on the R/H side, as original, you can just change the Connectors on the Switchgear. Also, after market OE spec looms are available if your original loom is toast.

Also, i have the Elektronic Sache Ignition system on my MkII. It bolts over the Bosch Alternator and does away with the Distributor. Again, no issues and is progammable.

I agree the old Ceramic fuses are not the best, but again if kept clean and tight you should have no problems. Halfords sell them, so easily available.

good luck, Nik