Motorcycle electrical question

[SOLER]

I have an '85 Honda Shadow 700. A few weeks ago, it warmed up a bit, so I got out the bike to go for a ride. The battery was a little tired, so I hooked up the charger. I got it started but since then there has been smoke from some wires. My question would be, what are thse wires for, and why are they smoking. I don't have a service manual, but was hoping someone here might shed some light before I have to pay a machanic.



Near the battery, there are three wiring plugs. The rear-most one is the one in question. I unhooked it, and they are all black from too much heat. I can't figure out where they go. And I'm not sure where the alternator (?) is. Or, if they even have an alternator. If not, what is the thing called (and where is it located?) that keeps the battery charged?



Thanks



SOLER

 

[Jeff Clark]

Probably has a stator and that could be the problem. Don't know how to troubleshoot it though. Trace those wires and see where they run.

 

[fkovalski]

I don't think that your bike is "positive" ground? That alway throws me for a loop on mine

 

[SOLER]

Negative ground.



I think that when I tried to charge it a couple of months ago, I gave it too much juice. It melted the plug on the rectifier. I went to the shop and the new rectifier is $225. Ouch. Aftermarket is $119. But, lo and behold, one of the parts guys recognized what I had, and had a harness. It's the two ends of the plugs with wires!! SWEET. I think I can just solder these in. And it was $15. That beats the heck outta $119!



I'll let ya know how it turns out. Now I just have to go buy a decent soldering gun. I have a small iron, but it's an Autozone- special piece of cr@p!



SOLER