Rectifier regulator

[Paul Baker]

Should there be power at rectifier with the ignition off? I am trying to track down my charging system. I’ve done all the tests for the stator and the rectifier have a fully charged battery and I read about there should not be power at the rectifier until the key has been turned on. I don’t know that that would make any difference, but something has got me baffled. I’m really leaning towards a new rectifier. Would love to brainstorm with anyone who can help.

[N3FOL]

I will assume you are referring to your 2008 RSV.  On your first question, there should no voltage on the rectifier of a motorcycle with the ignition off.  Which makes sense to me and you are correct.  There are members here that are subject matter experts on the RSV electrical system and they should chime in soon.  Explain to us what seems to be your problem. 

[Paul Baker]

I am having charging issues yes on my 2008 Venture. I have checked the stator at the connector next to fuel filter no shorts, started and checked for AC output and good and increased with higher RPM reconnected connector than checked connector and rectifier and same AC output so I know all wiring is good for stator to rectifier. Did the check on the rectifier forward and reverse and all seems ok, then I checked the 12V side of the connector with engine not running and I have 12v. (confused). This all started with a weak battery that I took out and had checked and it was failing so I purchased new battery and all good to go. Went to dealer for annual state inspection was great, left there and went for about 50 miles all good, went home parked outside my garage and later went to put bike in garage battery would not start the bike. I purchased a new rectifier that I will install but I still feel that the 12v at the rectifier connector is not correct and should only be there when key is in the on position.

Question, do I need to look at the on/off switch for something? or am I missing something else. 

[M61A1MECH]

I agree with N3FOL, here is a link to the electrical schematic for the Royal Star Ventures,  if your regulator is bad and you continue to ride you may well cook your new battery, my regulator went bad on my 2007, and it nearly made the battery blow up.  It overcharged it and it swelled up to the point I almost could not remove it from bike.