Spark when I plug in the rectifier...

Waveraider

Waveraider

Member
I have what I believe is a K3 CT70, S/N 2312224. Build date is 10/73.

Anyway, I bought a new ignition switch and wiring harness from Dratv. Plugged in everthing and it started first kick, but several minutes later I noticed the rectifer (i think, the small two pronged chip) was very hot. I unplugged everything, but the ignition switch and the battery connertor, whitch is the original.

I noticed every time i plug in the rectifier, I get a spark from the cnnectors. Is there a chance I have a bad rectifier? I thought a diode or resistor would blow and open the circut.
 
Adam-NLV

Adam-NLV

Well-Known Member
Interesting serial no.

My Ct70 frame serial is 230 1928 5/73
From that 5 month span they made 19,296 K3's or 2059 per month!

I take it you have a 12v aftermarket motor? You didn't say. The rectifier/reg shouldn't be getting that hot. the spark from the connector could mean it's seeing a short but more info is needed. you should re-check the electrical continuity of the old ignition switch vrs the new one.
 
Waveraider

Waveraider

Member
I have a 6v motor, and the bike was missing the ignition switch when I bought it. The original harness is FUBAR, and I can't really make heads or tails of it.
 
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Waveraider

Waveraider

Member
OK. I brought home my volt meter from my boat and checked voltage at the rectifier terminals. +to+ and -to - read neg 5 volts. Keep in mind, I cut the terminals off of an old battery to install on a new one. I reversed the connections on the battery. The bike still runs, but rectifier is not getting hot. I know I hooked it up right originally, but why would this happen?

Update: I just checked if it's charging and while running it shows 7v at the battery. I wonder if my harness is defective?
 
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