My 2000 Yamaha V-star 1100 won't even try to turn over even though the battery shows 13.4 volts. The battery is bulged and the headlight low beam is burned out. Replaced the bulb, jump started the bike and after 15 minutes of idling the low beam burned out again.
I'm thinking voltage regulator and wondering if the little pigtail connector from my battery tender might have caused a short at the battery. Also, am I cooking anything else besides the headlight? No blown fuses on the bike.
It is probably the voltage regulator which is allowing an electrical surge to blow out the low beam head light bulb.
Chances are it is the rectifier/regulator which is a sealed unit that has to be replaced if faulty. A bad one can cook your battery as well as your light bulbs and wiring. To check this connect a VOM across your battery terminals while the bike is running. If normal you should see about 13.5 volts. If your voltage climbs up to the 18 to 22 volt range or higher you must replace the part before you do further damage. Also be aware of the dangers of over charging a battery as it can explode and cause personal injury. If your battery has been cooked you will have smelled sulfuric acid and the battery will become hot to the touch. If that is the case you will also have to replace the battery as well as it will no longer hold a charge. When this happens the battery will bulge and this is called plate bow. By replacing both the battery and the rectifier/regulator you should be as good as new. In very rare instances it could be the stator which could cost a lot more but chances are its just the rectifier/regulator. I've seen them for very cheap prices on Ebay.
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