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V-Reg II
Dynamo Voltage Regulator

Product: 1020A

How to Order | Automotive Menu

V-Reg IIOverview

This is a solid state encapsulated regulator for motorcycles using the Lucas E3 type dynamo. The NanoControls dynamo regulator is designed to replace the mechanical regulator with modern reliable semiconductors. Provided the dynamo is capable of delivering enough power the regulator can handle up to 100W (requires good cool airflow around regulator) at 6V and even more at 12V. The regulator must be used with a good working dynamo and automotive battery and is guaranteed, subject to correct fitting and use.

The V-Reg II is an upgraded version of the original V-Reg. New features include:

  • Current limit to the field winding, allows excellent performance when using a  6V dynamo on a 12V system.
  • Tougher electronics, with the introduction of higher energy spark suppression.
  • Improved "thermal foldback" which progressively reduces output power if the regulator gets too hot.
  • Higher specification voltage reference.
  • Better servo loop stability, with new electronics which 'predict' when the output voltage is nearly correct and control the field current earlier.

Voltage & Polarity

 WARNING: Ensure you fit a regulator of correct voltage and polarity

As manufactured all regulators are set to operate at 6V. For 12V operation the small GREEN wire loop should be cut and sealed (with epoxy or silicone). If you ordered a 12V regulator your supplier may have already done this for you.

+ Earth regulators have a BLUE field wire.
- Earth regulators have a WHITE field wire.

For 6V operation the GREEN link wire is intact
For 12V operation the GREEN link wire is cut and sealed


Dynamo Polarising & Testing

The dynamo should be tested before connecting a new regulator:

Internal dynamo connections
Fig1: Internal dynamo connections

  1. Check that the internal dynamo wiring is as Figure 1.
  2. Polarising:
    To ensure the polarity of your dynamo is correctly setup for your bike (and therefore the regulator functions correctly), it is necessary to polarise or 'splash' the dynamo.
    To do this disconnect the field (F) connection from the dynamo; take a wire from the live terminal of the battery and briefly touch the F terminal of the dynamo ensuring the battery is earthed (as per intended use). This establishes the fields' remnant magnetism which is required for correct start-up.
  3. Unregulated Output Test:
    Remove normal D & F connections and link D and F together, connect a 12V headlamp bulb from the linked point to ground.
    Run engine at fast idle, lamp should be bright.
    If the dynamo has been dismantled or refurbished it is vital to confirm the generated voltage polarity, use a meter to check the voltage between earth and the D & F linked point is the same polarity as the battery live. If the polarity is reversed it is necessary to reverse the field connections inside the dynamo, re-polarise and retest.
  4. Reconnect all circuits after test.

Connections

-Earth +Earth

Function

WHITE BLUE F: Field
RED BLACK A: Ammeter (to battery)
YELLOW YELLOW D: Dynamo
BLACK RED E: Earth

Fitting & Testing

To maintain original appearances this unit may be fitted inside the original control box by first removing all of the contents (solenoids, points and resistors) or it may be mounted in any convenient corner, maybe in the top of a tool box, such that it has some protection from physical damage and weather. Fixing is via a stainless steel M5 stud which is not connected to the internal circuitry. An M5 self-locking stainless steel nut is provided, this requires an 8mm A/F spanner (2BA may be acceptable).

Disconnect the battery before starting work. Ensure the dynamo internal connections are as figure 1 (above). The four wires can be soldered to the original four terminals inside the control box if used in accordance with the adjacent wiring table or alternatively any suitable crimp connectors can be used to connect to the bikes' wiring. Taking into account proper practices to produce clean firm connections.

To check operation of the regulator measure the voltage across the battery, at rest the voltage will be around 6V or 12V depending on version, rising to around 7.25V or 14.4V once the dynamo is operating (2500 engine revs, headlight OFF). If the unit is fitted within the original regulator box the dynamo power handing is limited to less than the regulators maximum due to the restricted movement of cooling air, however it will comfortably handle the standard 60W dynamo.

This unit is only guaranteed provided it is fitted and used as intended, any miss-connections can cause damage.


How to order a V-Reg II

The V-Reg II is available from:
"Classic Motorcycle" electrics specialist AO Services - Tel: +44 (0)1953-884681.

Automotive Menu

URL ... http://www.NanoControls.co.uk/auto/v-reg2.htm
Last update ... 12 April, 2002
Page type ... Product Specification
© NanoControls, 2002