Testing R26 charging system?

[Atchisvw]

I have recently acquired a 1960 R26. After my initial ride, I found the "new" battery was discharged and would not recharge (now shows only 4.1v) after charging overnight on battery maintainer. I noticed the battery dripping from the discharge hose after the ride. I am wondering the best way to test (troubleshoot) the charging system to determine if the regulator is working properly, etc. I have ordered a new battery and need a few ideas on the best way to proceed. The bike runs with the battery charger hooked up, but stalls as soon as it is disconnected. Any help appreciated. Thanks, Scott

[Duane Ausherman]

Just about the first thing to check on any charging/battery issue is the charge voltage.

A very good book has been written for electrical on the /2 and that includes singles. I would call Vech and see if he has it.

Yahoo has a group for the BMW single cylinder models. I suggest joining that group.

If this is your first BMW, then learn to use Google for just about anything you need to know. For example, as a search term, try "vech bmw motorcycle"

[Atchisvw]

Can anyone direct me to a wiring diagram that shows the regulator connections in the dynamo? Mine is connected to terminals 61 and 51 and I would like to confirm that is correct. Still looking for causes of over-cooking my battery. thanks

[Kurt in S.A.]

I've not seen any diagrams from those days that actually show the regulator specific in the circuit. From the new Doug Rinckes book, you should have the F-type regulator or Noris regulator. There's no real diagram but it shows a wire coming off the coil affair which goes to the generator 61 while another wire (near the mechanical points) going to regulator 51 (and to the generator 30/51).

Kurt in S.A.

[Meerkat]

I have a diagram which may help.
I know nothing about the dark art of electrics on motorcycles so I hope that this is correct as it came from a good source.