Dim Panel

I have a 1983 suzuki tempter GR650 and I need to know where the rectifier is located and or what it looks like?

The If I jumpstart my bike, i can drive for maybe 2-5 minutes then it shuts off with my instriment panel dimming and my turn signal don't flash. I believe its the rectifier but I don't know where its at on the bike, what it looks like and how to check to see if its faulty.

Wow, you actually have a Tempter. I have only seen one of these in my life.

To answer your question, your rectifier is most likely somewhere under the seat, or under a side panel. The outer casing may be finned aluminum, because the same part also contains the voltage regulator, which needs to shed a lot of heat, and which is a more likely culprit than the rectifier for charging problems.

Before you start to consider the regulator/rectifier as your problem, do some simple tests to check the condition of your battery and alternator. Check the electrolyte levels and fill the battery if needed. Charge it overnight on a trickle or float charger. let it sit for an hour and measure the voltage at the terminals. A good battery will read about 12.6v.

Start your bike, and watch what happens to the battery voltage with the starter engaged. A good battery will not drop below 10v. Note the reading at idle. This will vary, but you should see more than at rest, somewhere in the neighborhood of 13.1.

Rev the engine to about 4000 rpm. The voltage should climb to about 14.1-14.5 volts and then level off as you rev further. If the voltage does not come up, the problem is most likely in your alternator, but could be your rectifier. If the voltage continues to rise beyond 15v, your regulator is not functioning.

That should get you started. It does not cover all the possible issues with your charging system but will tell you where to look further.

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