03 RX 1 NOT CHARGING BATTERY

[srxz]

Is there a quick way to check the charging system with a multi meter and what should we look for?

 

[Len Todd]

During storage, these batteries need to be charged monthly.

First charge the battery with a charger that is designed for this type of battery (e.g. Battery Tender, Optimate, etc.) Regular auto chargers are not very good for this type of battery.

Verify that the battery is fully charged by observing the condition indicator on the charger or with the charger disconnected for several hours, measure 12.2+ VDC across the terminals.

Once the battery is fully charged, start the engine. Measure across the battery terminals/jumper leads for Volts DC as you rev up to slightly below engagement RPM. You should see ~12.5+ Volts D.C.

If you are not seeing +12.5 VDC with it reving, then please let us know. Then, we'll walk through the rest of this.

 

[srxz]

O.K. Shows only 11.2 VDC on the meter with the engine revving. Battery is 12.2 vdc fully charged. We have spare parts to try another voltage regulator.

 

[Len Todd]

Did you check the fuse? Check all 4, then you do not have to worry about which one.

If it is not the fuse, then try replacing the regulator.

If it is not the regulator, then try measuing the stator's two resistances

A.C. MAGNETO (a.k.a. Stator)
1. Disconnect: A.C. magneto coupler 1
2. Connect: Pocket tester (to the A.C. magneto coupler)
3. Measure: Stator coil resistance b /pickup coil resistance a
Out of specification = Replace.
Pickup coil resistance: (Gray – Black) 189 - 231 Ohms at 20C (68F)
Stator coil resistance: (White – White) 0.19 - 0.24 Ohms at 20C (68F)

If the stator is good, then you have a wire or connector problem in the related circuits.

 

[jeff reid]

I ahd the same problem with my 2003 Rx1 and I found the terminals on the connector going in to the voltage regulator corroded.Remove your airbox and I think it is the black box that is the voltage regulator--it has the bigger wires going to it.I replaced 2-3 terminals and cleaned up the connection on the regulator and put some di-electric grease to prevent this corrosion again.Hope this helps.
Jeff

 

[jeff reid]

Also check the harness up on the left front where your drink holder is located and you may find the harness rubbing on the chasis.This is common on these sleds and mine was also rubbed there and caused it not to start one time.
Jeff

 

[srxz]

Thanks for the help guys. We were able to change out the voltage regulator from the parts sled and looks like it charging now. There is 14 volts on the meter when running. One of the wires in the connector was questionable, so we will hang on to the old regulator.

 

[Len Todd]

Glad you got it at the regulator. Getting down to the stator means a lot more $s to fix.