Motorcycle Repair: honda electrical problem stator 1979 cx500, honda cx500 custom, polarity reversals

Question
Dear Mr. Shively,

About to tear down a 1979 Honda CX500 Custom to replace the stator (wreath and pickups) for the third time in three years.  What should I look for when I search for the reason for the stator burning out?  is it more likely to be inside the engine, i.e. flywheel rotation out of sync, or a pickup shorting out because not tightened well enough, or what?  or should I look at the wiring after the voltage regulator where it has become DC and there may be polarity reversals (it has a Vetter faring that a complete nincumpoop wired!)?

Should I even bother with the labor and expense at this point?

Thanks,
Don

Answer
Hi Donald,

Perform electrical tests before the task of removing or replacing the stator. A variety of things may cause the symptoms described. Use dielectric grease on all electrical connectors. Keep connections clean and tight, including grounds.

For assistance with this, visit: www.electrexusa.com, go to their troubleshooting chart and follow directions. I recommend their products over OEM. They make high quality electrical parts.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively