Dim headlights...

[MJKH_BIGRED]

So due to a transmission issue on my 1983 BIGRED, I had to swap a 185 engine that I had in place of the 200e engine. It still had a battery in it and for over a year, the 185 engine seemed to be recharging the battery just fine; well the battery is dead now and won't take a charge from my battery charger. As a result, my headlights are REALLY lousy.

I went to BikeBandit to look up the part numbers on the headlights for both the 200e and a 185s and I see that they are the same identical bulb (I was thinking that perhaps the 185 took a lower wattage bulb - same exact part numbers). So my question is, what can I do to improve the lighting?

My 1981 185s runs the headlight dim at idle (as you would expect), but it works very well when under load. When I put the BIGRED with the 185 motor under load the light is barely on, making night rides, which due to work I am subject to if I want to go out, pretty lousy on that bike. Would unhooking the dead battery help? Or am I going to need to get a new battery?

[rg97]

If the battery won't charge, it's bad. Get another one and go from there. If you still have a problem, it could be your stator

[JustEnough]

The 185 is not electric start like the 200E and the harness and wiring is different. I doubt the battery was charging.

Here is a cheap source for bulbs if you have a NAPA Auto Parts nearby:

http://www.napaonline.com/Catalog/Ca...349_0313997940

[MJKH_BIGRED]

Bulb is brand new. Stator is brand new also.

I know what you were saying about the wiring harness, but I drove it with the 185 motor for over a year and the battery never wavered. Also, I would use the headlight with the engine off setting up during camping and stuff, and when it would start going dim, I would run the bike and the battery would come back strong.

[DasUberKraut]

Why are you still using OEM bulbs?
There have been many advances in technology since the early 80's. Get a halogen bulb. Much brighter. Only $7.
If that isn't enough there are LEDs that will fit the stock bulb sockets.