wiring question

[neat street]

Hi, I have just started to place the wiring loom in place and done some continuity tests and found I am getting earth readings from the black wires? the only switches that are attached are from the front end, ie lights, indicators ignition switch. I cant see from  the wiring diagram that this should happen, but may be wrong? green wires also show to earth. I also get a lower reading from the yellow wires from the alternator/rectifier when connected together (from earth).
I could check each wire through, but hope this may be normal?
I have also bought a second hand regulator and think that the top cap had been put on the wrong way round with the green, white and black label on the opposite side to the three connectors? I have changed the cap round so that the green lines up with the `E` tab, white in the middle (wont change anyway) `F` tab, and the black to the tab with no marking which I believe to be for the correct wiring of the unit?
Any help would be appreciated
Many thanks
 John

[Bryanj]

You will get some conyinuity to earth from the black lead depending on what is connected but should be some, albeit low, resistance E.G 5 ohm for an ignition coil

[Lobo]

Agree with Bryan on the continuities.... ie expect some, and likely 'normal'. Do make sure though you have the correct fuses before you power it all up - ie no 'bodges' (!) with nails making do for the test! If you've only the correct number of OEM type fuses substitute (lower rating) house fuses whilst you finalise connections / get it all working fine.

The regulator - easy to check the cap; GREEN is to ground, ie, that connection inside the unit will be riveted to the metal chassis of the unit.... as I remember.

[neat street]

Thanks Brian/Lobo
I think I will disconnect the coils and re-check. still a long way from putting it all together as the engine is being stripped. appreciate your help.
Many thanks again
John

[BigAl (Alan)]

Hi John,

Voltage regulator, when fitted on the bike, mid terminal is GREEN (grounded to the bike frame)
Top terminal is BLACK (from ignition circuit +12 volts)
Bottom terminal is WHITE (to field coil + 12 volts)...if BLACK & WHITE cables are crossed the regulator will operate

All the BLACK cables are interconnected as they are +12 volt ignition circuits...when switched on by the ignition switch.

The alternator and rectifier, check them with a continuity tester before final connection
Which 'K' model do you have?

Alan

[neat street]

Hi Alan, I have a 1976 F1, looking at the regulator, the earth is at the top (right side if looking at it from the terminals face on), the other two have an insulation plate which stops it going to earth and separating the terminals ?
many thanks for your help
John

[BigAl (Alan)]

Hi John,

You are correct, my manual is a little faded
Just looked up the part No 31400-300-035 to confirm the top terminal is grounded

Alan

[neat street]

Thanks for looking it up Alan
appreciate your help
John