7 × Polaris Voltage Regulator Problems and how to Fix it. Atv bad battery symptoms

× Polaris Voltage Regulator Problems and how to Fix it!

Polaris is a pioneer when it comes to off-road vehicles such as ATVs and UTVs. They have a massive client base, and they do have a successful lineup to back that up. Even with all this success, you cannot overlook the fact that the company has been plagued by Polaris Voltage Regulator problems for a long time.

Polaris RZR, Ranger, and Sportsman have problems with voltage regulators that cause low voltage and battery charging issues. Some Polaris RZR and Sportsman’s voltage regulators are reported to overheat and melt wires.

Due to this issue, some models are more consistently affected than others. Let us look at some of the problems that you could encounter with the voltage regulator on your Polaris. Furthermore, at the end of this, you will know how to perform required repairs and their costs.

Join our free group and ask your question there. We promise you, you’ll get an answer from one of our team members or group members. Join the group here!

Electronics Not Working Due to Failed Voltage Regulator – Polaris Snowmobile and Ranger

When the voltage regulator goes bad on your Polaris snowmobile or Ranger, the electronics may not work. In many cases, this will mean that the ignition won’t start, the lights don’t turn on, and even the battery may not charge.

Here’s a Polaris community member explaining the issue:

“At the end of last season when I went to start the sled one morning, the lights and dash came on as usual but quickly shut off. The dash was completely blank and unresponsive and both the head and tail lights are very dimly lit. The hand and thumb warmers didn’t work either, but the sled ran fine!:dunno: Reverse didn’t work either.”

Polaris Snowmobile IQ 600 HO and Ranger XP 700 experience this problem.

A failed voltage regulator can take down many components with itself. Not only that, it may leave you stranded in the middle of the road. Hence, repairs can be costly and time-consuming, so it’s important to troubleshoot any problems as soon as they arise.

An aftermarket regulator will cost around 50 and will take about 15 minutes to replace.

Low Voltage Issue – Polaris Ranger, RZR, and Sportsman

Polaris voltage regulator issues can often be traced back to a low voltage issue. A large number of new machines come to factory with a low voltage issue, and it’s very difficult to troubleshoot.

polaris, voltage, regulator, problems, battery, symptoms

Polaris XP 800, 900, and Sportsman X2 570 models have been experiencing low voltage due to voltage regulator problems.

Ideally, the battery needs DC 13.5v to charge. But the voltage output can sometimes drop down to 10 or even a single digit.

Sometimes, the engine doesn’t start and begins cranking. During the ride, the voltage keeps dropping until the vehicle dies down.

You don’t have any option except to replace the bad regulator. If the problem persists, the issue is probably with the stator or battery.

Overcharging Battery or Intermittent Charging – Polaris RZR, Ranger, and Sportsman

Overcharging will occur when the voltage regulator supplies more than required to the battery. Overcharging can shorten the battery life and eventually lead to a dead vehicle. At any rpm, you should never see a charge voltage of 18 or 19 volts.

Polaris XP 800, 900, and Sportsman X2 570 models have been reported with this problem.

If your machine exhibits intermittent charging – as it charges for a while then stops – it may indicate an overcharged battery or faulty voltage regulator.

If you’ve replaced the VR a couple of times and are facing this issue again, it’s probably the stator making them go bad.

Here’s how you can check the stator if it’s broken before you spend 100 to 150 on fixing the ECM:

Voltage Regulator Getting Extremely Hot – Polaris RZR

Some Polaris ATVs, such as RZR 900s, have voltage regulators that get extremely hot to touch. It can be due to a loose battery connection, worn-out terminals, or simply a bad voltage regulator.

How hot can a voltage regulator be? What’s the normal temperature?

When the cord on an electric space heater runs, it reaches over 100F – warm to the touch but not excessively hot.

The temperature of a cord on an electric space heater, image courtesy.

As long as you can touch the wire, you can continue using the current regulator. Just make sure that the connections are good and tight, especially at the battery and if anything is shorted to the ground. If you see any burnt-out terminals or connectors, it’s time to replace the regulator.

Voltage Regulator Getting Extremely Hot – Polaris Sportsman

Polaris Sportsman models (2008 Sportsman 500) have been known to experience melted voltage regulator wires.

Melted yellow wires of the regulator, image courtesy.

Here’s what a customer has to say in a forum community:

I noticed this the other day when something started smoking. I just got around to pulling off the cargo box to investigate. Where I had some auto conduit around the yellow wires had melted. Upon looking further. The plug itself had melted too. So now both plugs are melted. The male end coming from the wire harness will need to be replaced. I have searched and can’t find a replacement anywhere. Does anybody know of one?

Here’s what you can start with:

  • Do a resistance test on the stator
  • When running the motor at 3000 rpm, conduct a voltage test on the battery.
  • Check every connector if it’s clean and making contact.

Soldering the connections together and removing the plug may help. The plug is a poorly designed product. The wires should be 10 gages rather than 12.

If your regulator wires are melting, the only solution is to replace the VR and the harness.

You will need the “3 Position HD Waterproof Connector” for the voltage regulator. You may buy 2x or 3x as much as you need. It won’t hurt to have backups.

polaris, voltage, regulator, problems, battery, symptoms

If you see any melted or scorched wires near your battery, it’s best to immediately replace your entire voltage regulator.

Bad Regulator Due to High Loads – Polaris Ranger

The voltage regulator will inevitably fail if you continually put high loads on the battery. If the charging circuit operates will run on all the time, something that it’s not intended to do.

Polaris Ranger 900 XP Deluxe displays this problem often.

The real issue is what current the VR (and alternator) is drawing to maintain the specified voltage, not how much the VR can maintain the voltage. The VR is only supposed to provide a limited amount of current when the load on the battery becomes too high.

If you’re running your machine at full throttle all the time, it’s likely that your VR isn’t up to par and needs to be replaced.

Bad Connections Between Battery and Regulator – Polaris Ranger, Dragon, and Snowmobile

Because of poor connections between the battery and the regulator, Polaris regulator rectifiers generally burn. If you’ve been living in moist weather and frequently travel through water, you are more susceptible to having corrosion build up in Polaris ATV connectors.

This leads to unneeded resistance, which creates heat and causes excess current overcoming the resistance.

People found this common in Polaris Ranger XP 700 and some Snowmobile IQ 700 vehicles.

The Polaris voltage regulator will not be able to drain excessive voltage adequately if corrosion forms on the ground connector, causing it to overheat and potentially causing a burnt regulator.

Other symptoms may include low voltage or frequent voltage fluctuations.

If you’re having this problem, be sure not to operate on the current VR system. If you do so, the likelihood of your ECU frying up is high.

Fill the connections with dielectric grease to exclude water and prevent corrosion, then wait to see if whatever problem you experienced happens again. If it does, the VR needs to be replaced.

How To Tell If Starter Solenoid Is Bad On ATV?

If you’re having an issue with your ATV, there is a good chance that the starter solenoid will be to blame. However, it can be tricky to know for certain where the problem is and how to best deal with it.

Check out the information below to understand more about your ATV and how to detect an issue with the starter solenoid. Hopefully, after reading this, your ATV will be back in working order in no time!

What Is The Starter Solenoid?

A starter solenoid is a switch that creates a point of contact between the starter and the battery. Once the starter button is pressed, the coil is energized. In turn, this completes the circuit by pushing a contactor, which transfers DC current from the battery to the starter. The starter solenoid also helps to ensure that start-up is stable.

On an ATV, the starter solenoid is generally located on the frame. Usually, it is found next to or under the battery, near the wiring harness, placed on the outside of the plastic. Though their size and shape can vary, you are generally looking for a round or square mechanism, with two small and two large wires attached.

How To Tell If Starter Solenoid Is Bad On ATV?

As an ATV owner, it’s likely that at one point or another, you’ve had a problem with your starter. If you haven’t yet, we’re sorry to let you know that you almost definitely will at some point!

As such, it’s best to educate yourself on how to detect a bad starter solenoid to ensure that as soon as something goes wrong, you know how to handle it. This is super important for your safety and peace of mind. There are a number of ways to test whether the starter solenoid is bad on your ATV. Check them out below!

Rule Out Battery Problems

First, even if you’re fairly certain that your battery is good, it’s always necessary to check! If you haven’t done this before, you should definitely learn how to, as regularly checking your battery is a necessity.

Here are some visible signs that your battery is the issue and should be replaced immediately:

  • Bumps or lumps in outer casting.
  • Loose or broken terminals.
  • Visible cracks in the plastic casing.
  • Melted or burnt plastic.
  • Leaking battery fluids.
  • Discoloration.
  • Low electrolyte levels.

You may also want to test your battery for further confidence. If you are confident that your battery is definitely not the problem, you should now begin to look into the starter solenoid.

Signs Of A Bad Starter Solenoid On ATV

There are some easily noticeable symptoms of a bad starter solenoid. Here are some signs that the issue with your ATV is due to a bad starter solenoid:

The Vehicle Doesn’t Start

This is the most common sign which implies an issue with the starter solenoid. If your vehicle doesn’t turn on after engaging the ignition, it may be that your starter solenoid is faulty.

There Is A Clicking Sound Coming From The starter

This is a sign that the starter solenoid isn’t working properly. However, this is also a common issue caused by a battery that is low on amps. Therefore, if this is the only symptom, it may be worth checking the battery more thoroughly.

Starter Doesn’t Turn Off After The Engine Has Started

Once you have started your ATV engine and let go of the starter button, the circuit should close. This should then disconnect power to the starter motor. However, if your starter remains on after the engine has turned on, there might be an issue with the main contacts in the starter solenoid.

It is probably that the main contacts have welded together in the closed position.

Intermittent Issue When Starting The ATV

If a starter isn’t working as it should, it might result in a sporadic difficulty in starting the ATV. This may be due to damage caused by dirt, debris, or excessive heat. The starter should activate immediately after starting your ATV.

If you find that it takes a few times to get your ATV started, there is likely a problem with the starter solenoid. This might also be the case if you manage to start the ATV, move the vehicle a bit, but then find that the ATV stops working.

The Starter Keeps Spinning

This is a sign of a particularly dangerous issue with the starter. Bad cases will result in system damage or even explosion. Ensure that you disable and exit your ATV as soon as possible.

Testing an ATV Starter Solenoid

Once you know for sure that the issue with your ATV is likely a result of a bad starter solenoid, you will need to either purchase a new starter or attempt to fix yours yourself. However, before spending unnecessary money, you should try to detect the problem first, as it is likely that the issue is fixable.

Before testing your solenoid, as we detail below, we recommend that you understand the electronic components of your ATV well.

Understanding these, in addition to being confident in your knowledge of where the starter solenoid is and the location of its connections, is a necessity before testing the starter solenoid.

If you don’t have time to learn these, we recommend hiring an expert to ensure that the work is done as safely and correctly as possible.

If you are confident in your understanding, you can move on to testing your starter solenoid. To do this, you will need two things:

What Is A Multimeter?

A multimeter is a device that is used to measure a number of values, such as, but not limited to, electrical voltage, current, and resistance. They are very useful when you need to carry out simple tests or even if you need to detect complex faults.

They are a great tool for troubleshooting electrical issues on motors. There are two types of multimeter: analog and digital.

Analog multimeters are less costly than digital multimeters and so are preferred by some people. They are preferred in very specific situations, such as when you want to detect slow voltage changes or if you need to set the multimeter to an ammeter.

Although, they can be difficult to read accurately and must be handled with care. If they are dropped or not handled gently, they can easily become damaged. Also, they aren’t generally as accurate as digital multimeters, especially when you are measuring the general voltage.

Digital multimeters are more commonly used and are preferable for this task. You can purchase different types of digital multimeters, from very simple ones to very advanced ones. They are also easier to read than analog multimeters because they provide the readings on an LCD screen.

Digital multimeters are also better than their analog counterparts for measuring voltage.

They are, however, more costly than analog multimeters. Although, if you opt for a more basic version, the difference in price will be negligible. On the other hand, advanced digital multimeters can be very expensive.

What is a Back Probe Kit?

Often it is necessary to check the current without separating a connector, and you can do this using a method called back-probing. Essentially, it is the method of voltage drop testing, which measures the resistance in a circuit under a load by touching the probe to the electrical contact in the back of the connection.

To be able to do this, you will need a back probe kit. These kits are widely available online.

Testing Your Starter Solenoid

There are two tests you need to do to see if your solenoid is faulty.

Test 1

The first test is to see whether the starter and the solenoid are making the necessary connection. To perform this test, carry out the following steps.

Using the back probes, connect one of the solenoid wires that connect to the starter button to the battery. Begin with the negative side of the battery.

Next, again, using the back probe, connect the other solenoid wire to the positive side of the battery.

Once making these connections, there should be a ‘click’ sound. This sound tells you that the solenoid is working.

If you don’t hear the click, try the next test.

polaris, voltage, regulator, problems, battery, symptoms

Test 2

If you did not hear the click sound, you would need to follow the steps below, to perform the second test.

As you did in the first test, connect one of the solenoid wires to the battery’s negative terminal.

For this step, you will need your digital multimeter. To perform a resistance test, connect your digital multimeter to the solenoid’s main connections.

Once you have set the multimeter to resistance test, an ‘OL’ should appear, which implies an open circuit.

Next, connect the back probe connection from step one to the positive battery terminal. This will complete the circuit, and as such, ‘Closed Circuit’ should appear. If this happens, the starter solenoid is in working order and is not faulty. If the circuit doesn’t close, the solenoid is faulty, and you need to purchase a new one.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I start My ATV By Bypassing The Starter Solenoid?

If you have to start your ATV with a faulty starter solenoid, you will need to locate the starter solenoid and the two main wires protruding from the starter. Then, to short circuit the starter connections, jump these two wires.

Once this is done, give your ATV ignition in combination to this short circuit. This should start your ATV.

Is It Safe To Bypass The Faulty Starter Solenoid?

While you can do this if it is necessary, doing it consistently may cause problems. It is safest to get the issue fixed properly straight away if possible, as bypassing the faulty starter solenoid will likely cause more faults than you originally began with.

Are There Any Other Problems Which May Induce A Faulty Solenoid Starter?

Yes. If you have tested your starter solenoid, and it has shown up as faulty, you may want to check for these other problems too.

Final Thoughts

By educating yourself on the electrical components of your vehicle and learning how to test the battery and starter solenoid, issues with your ATV can be easily pinpointed. To prevent further problems from arising, it is important to get these issues fixed properly as soon as possible.

If you don’t feel confident troubleshooting or fixing the issues yourself, it is always a good idea to hire an expert to do so for you to ensure your vehicle remains in good condition and you are safe while you use it.

Hey there! I’m Patrick, and I’m the guy behind ATV Legion. I created this site to share everything I know about ATVs – from repairs and upgrades to riding tips and tricks.

Signs of a Bad Starter Relay or Struggling Solenoid

Climb into your car. Buckle up for safety. Turn the key in the ignition and… nothing. Nothing but a click. The engine won’t turn over and your car won’t start. Could be a dead battery. But since the dash lights and the radio and the headlamps seem to be working, maybe something else is the culprit. This could be a sign that your car’s starter relay – or starter solenoid – has gone bad.

Relay vs. Solenoid

When you turn the key to start your car, you are activating the ignition switch. Like most of the switches in your vehicle, the ignition switch controls only a low-powered signal, in this case to start the engine. On older vehicles, the signal is an electrical current (like a light switch in your house); on newer vehicles, the signal may be an electronic impulse sent to the vehicle’s computer. In any case, the switch “tells” the starter circuit to engage.

But the starter itself requires a lot of power. Certainly more than the tiny wires running to the ignition switch can handle. The starter is tasked with the job of getting the internal parts of the engine turning, and that requires a lot of torque, thereby requiring more power. So automakers insert a device that enables a low-power signal to trigger a high-power signal. That way, a big job (like starting an engine) can be enabled by a small switch.

Both a relay and a solenoid are devices that receive a low-power signal as a trigger to close (or sometimes open) a much larger circuit with more power. In the case of a starter, the ignition switch signals the relay/solenoid (possibly by way of a computer) and the relay/solenoid switches on the starter circuit to engage the starter.

Now the terms relay and solenoid are often used interchangeably and there is a lot of confusion about which is which. (Hopefully we do not add to the confusion). While technically a relay and a solenoid are constructed and operate differently, both are remote electromagnetic “switches.” And both can perform the same function: control a high-power signal with a low-power signal. So, in that manner the terms are often used in place of one another. Because of its construction and manner of operation, a solenoid is usually capable of switching a higher current than a relay. Still, one person might refer to a starter relay and another to a starter solenoid.

Further muddying the water, these devices are located in different places on different vehicles. And some manufacturers use both a relay and a solenoid in the ignition system. In that case, the relay will trigger the solenoid. Most often, a true starter relay is a small black cube plugged into an electrical fuse/relay box in the engine compartment, whereas a starter solenoid is (in most cases) attached directly to the starter on the engine (although it is sometimes located elsewhere in the engine compartment).

Signs of a bad starter solenoid

Because it is more common to run into problems with the starter solenoid than with a plug-in relay, for our purposes we will FOCUS on symptoms related to the solenoid. Consider these possible signs of a failing or bad starter solenoid when you turn the key:

  • Nothing happens. If you engage the ignition and it does nothing, there are a number of problems that could account. One possibility is the solenoid.
  • A single “click” sound comes from the engine compartment or from under the car.This could mean that the solenoid is trying to engage but that the internal components are stuck and unable to work properly.
  • Repeated “clicking” sounds usually indicate a dead battery. But a faulty solenoid that fails to make adequate electrical contact inside can also produce this tell-tale sound causing the battery to have low voltage unable to provide enough power to start your engine.
  • Sometimes a bad starter solenoid, instead of preventing the engine from starting, may cause it to start on its own without the key being turned to the “start” position.” This less-common problem can be dangerous and should be addressed immediately.
  • If the starter engages but does not disengage when you let go of the key, the solenoid is likely bad and the starter may suffer significant damage as a result.
  • Sometimes your car starts, sometimes it doesn’t. Intermittent operation can be a sign of a failing starter solenoid.

Other issues that presen t a bad solenoid

Problems that might cause your car to act like it has a bad starter solenoid can include:

Blown fuse – Sometimes the simplest explanation is the best one. A blown fuse in the starter circuit could be the cause of a no-start problem.

Broken or corroded wiring – Damaged or dirty wires to the battery or to the starter solenoid (or wires that are loose) can prevent sufficient power from reaching the starter.

Alternator.The alternator is designed to power all of your car’s electrical systems when the vehicle is running. It also recharges the battery. If the alternator is bad, the battery may not be capable of starting the engine.

Starter – Some solenoids are mounted to the starter, but some are located directly inside the starter housing. When this is the case, it may be necessary to replace the entire starter when the solenoid goes bad. Sometimes the starter itself is the problem.

Electrical issues can be annoying and inconvenient. They can also be hazardous and can cause damage. If you run into symptoms of a bad starter relay or solenoid with your car, truck, or SUV, make sure to have a trusted technician to diagnose the specific problem.

Hogan Sons Tire and Auto | Author: Mike Ales | Copyright

This article is intended only as a general guidance document and relying on its material is at your sole risk. By using this general guidance document, you agree to defend, indemnify and hold harmless Hogan Sons Tire and Auto and its affiliates from and against any and all claims, damages, costs and expenses, including attorneys’ fees, arising from or related to your use of this guidance document. To the extent fully permissible under applicable law, Hogan Sons Tire and Auto makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, as to the information, content, or materials included in this document. This reservation of rights is intended to be only as broad and inclusive as is permitted by the laws of your State of residence.

What Does Stator Do On ATV? Most Comprehensive Overview 2023

A stator is a stationary set of wire coils (the stator windings) that is affixed to an engine.

In basic terms, the stator produces the power that powers the battery in an ATV or side-by-side, as well as is for that reason in charge of powering the ATV itself. This is what does stator do on ATV.

ATV stator is an essential component of the ATV’s electrical system. A modern ATV stator is normally a generator stator significance that its only objective is to charge the battery.

If you have some type of electrical trouble, specifically a failure to charge, the concern is most likely with one of these parts.

An ATV’s stator reenergizes the battery while the machine remains in use, like a generator in an automobile.

Your ATV stator might have three types, a single-phase stator, a three-phase stator, or a bar-curled stator, every one of which looks in different ways. Many modern-day ATVs make use of a three-phase-stator as these parts create more power.

What Is The Function Of The ATV Stator?

An ATV stator has two key functions; to charge the battery while at the same time charging the CDI device with the use of a unique coil placed on the ATV stator. This coil subsequently sends out that power to start the engine.

What Does A Stator Power?

There are 2 flavors of stator, single or 3 phases. The 3 phases are one of the most usual. Each phase of the stator is included a copper cable winding around an iron core. The stator is fixed to the engine, and also as the rotor with magnets affixed revolves around the coils, voltage is developed.

All engines need electrical existing in order to work. Also a fundamental ATV without lights, battery, or starter electric motor still requires voltage to power the coil. The coil as you recognize transforms voltage right into a spark at the plug.

Much more sophisticated ATVs will certainly have larger demands ECU, battery, starter electric motor, electrical steering, dash lights, sensing units, coolant fan, lights, winch, etc.

While your ATV may have a battery, all voltage is eventually given by the stator. On many ATVs, battery power is used to operate dash lights as well as crank over the engine.

The stator does all the hefty training. The cranking rotors excite the stator which generates voltage to power the coil through the CDI box (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) or ECU (Engine Control Unit), whichever your ATV has.

After the engine starts, the stator provides all the power required, including topping up the battery voltage invested by cranking the engine over. And so you can see just how important a working stator is, that said allow’s come down to examining yours.

The Number Of Volts Should A Stator Put Out?

For example, a 32-amp stator ought to put out 18 volts AC (VAC) per each 1000-RPM. At 2000 it needs to be 36 VAC (18 × 2). At 3000 RPM it need to be 54 VAC (18 X 3).

Will ATV Run With A Bad Stator?

Without a great stator, your engine will run improperly or not at all. This remedy entirely bypasses the stator by using a 12-volt battery to power the ignition system. While a stator is passing away, it can generate a weak spark, causing the engine to miss out on or run inadequately. Symptoms are commonly intensified as the engine warms up.

It is feasible for the engine to start if the stator is failing. Nevertheless, all of it depends upon exactly how it’s falling short. A periodic failing stator will certainly cause the engine to run like a pig or not in all.

An irregular voltage supplied to the coil will result in:

  • Misfiring plug
  • Black smoke
  • Fouling plug
  • Reluctance
  • Stalling speed
  • Backfiring

Can A Bad Stator Drain A Battery?

If the stator doesn’t supply sufficient power, The battery will start to run out. Readings over 1.5 Ohms are an indicator that the stator is malfunctioning.

Next off, check to make sure nothing is grounded by connecting the red lead to the connector and connecting the black lead to the negative terminal of the battery.

What Can Cause A Stator To Go Bad?

There are a few points that might cause a stator to fail. As well as heavy loading when operating accessories (winch, heated grasps, front lights, and so on).

If functioning several of these things at once (plowing/pulling/possibly stuck at night) you would overload the system. This can create either the stator or rectifier to fry.

How Do I Know If My ATV Stator Is Bad?

A dead battery does not immediately imply that your stator is bad. Before you evaluate the stator, there are a couple of things to check first.

The first thing is to do a battery check. The very best area to do this goes to a vehicle shop. They’ll identify the health of the battery, and also inform you whether it can still hold a charge. Also, look for loosened and rusted adapters as well as electrical wiring.

If the battery, ports and wiring seem okay, inspect the rectifier or voltage regulator. If it’s not functioning effectively, the battery will certainly not charge.

If the rectifier is excellent, you can currently relocate onto the stator. You’ll be using the exact same multimeter you utilized to test the rectifier, to inspect if the stator is good. You’ll also require your ATV’s service manual.

What Are The Indications Of A Bad Stator?

Since the key objective of a stator is to keep the battery charged, the most obvious sign of a bad stator is a weak or dead battery.

If your battery charges well on another battery charger, or it has actually finished an extra comprehensive check, then the problem could be the stator.

Just make sure you have actually additionally tested the rectifier as well as inspected the electrical wiring.

In some cases, you’ll discover that your engine has a hard time beginning, or that it does promptly, particularly when you are utilizing your front lights or any type of electrical element.

Yet one of the most certain ways to identify a bad stator is utilizing a multimeter. Do a fast resistance examination on the port and contrast the numbers to those in the handbook. And if you get an OL analysis, obtain a new stator as soon as possible.

Incidentally, you don’t also require to remove the stator from the ATV. As soon as you separate the main port, you can do a static examination along with a dynamic examination.

Can A Stator Be Fixed?

Oftentimes a new stator is the best, most affordable solution for an electrical system malfunction. Because fixing stators can be an elaborate as well as detail-intensive procedure, changing failed stators with a completely new part can be a much easier course, depending on the particular ATV.

How To Test An ATV Stator

To test the ATV stator, you will again need the multimeter. You will certainly initially do a static examination, or an examination done without the engine running and also without the stator attached to the ATV. See to it the ATV is off when you disconnect the stator.

Another test is the dynamic examination, this moment with the electric motor running. This will only work if your battery has some charge. You need to set your multimeter to a/c voltage for this dimension. You will likely need a friend to help.

Static Test

Eliminate the stator from the engine compartment of your ATV and also lay it on a table. Determine the main adapter with the 3 cords leading into it. In the adapter are pins representing each of the 3 cables.

Take your multimeter as well as turn it to the ohm setting. Doing a resistance test. Open your solution guidebook to where it mentions the appropriate resistance worths for the stator.

Put a multimeter lead into pin 1 and another multimeter lead into pin 2. Keep in mind the reading. After that examination pin 2 versus pin 3, and also lastly pin 1 versus pin 3.

Contrast the resistance analyses you’ve gotten with the ones listed in the solution handbook. If they are not within the maker’s variety, your stator is bad and also you need to replace it. The very same uses if the multimeter shows an open-loop (OL).

You can also do an insulation examination, to ensure the stator is not shorting to the ground.

To do this test, put the multimeter introduce pin 1 and touch the other lead on the body of the stator. This time, you want an OL reading. If the multimeter shows a number, it indicates the stator is shorting and also you require to get a brand-new one.

Repeat with the other two pins.

Dynamic Test

A dynamic stator test determines the voltage coming out of the stator. If the voltage is less than expected, it can show the stator is not generating adequate power to charge the battery.

You’ll need to have your ATV engine going for a constant RPM to do a dynamic stator examination, so you’ll require 2 individuals for this.

Keep in mind that a dynamic examination needs you have a charged battery, otherwise the engine will not start.

First, identify the stator port coming out of the engine case. Detach it so you can access the 3 pins.

Open up the ATV’s service guidebook to the stator examination web page. Inspect the test RPMs. The majority of manuals list three examination RPMs.

Take the multimeter and transform it to the VAC setup. Have a person turn on the engine and also keep the RPM at the called for number.

Making use of the multimeter, gauge the voltage of the three pins versus each other: pin 1 to pin 2, pin 2 to pin 3 as well as pin 1 to pin 3. Keep in mind the ordinary analysis.

Go to the next RPM stated in the guidebook as well as repeat the examination.

Compare your analyses versus those defined in the guidebook. If they are not within the manufacturer’s range, you require a brand-new stator.

Conclusion

Your ATV’s stator is an integral part of the electrical system, along with the battery and regulator. If you have some sort of electric issue, specifically a failure to charge, the concern is likely with among these elements.

Stators can and also do spoil, but it isn’t a common incident. The only method to understand if it’s your stator is to check the stator itself. Thankfully, testing is simple. Even those who aren’t mechanically inclined can check their stator by referring to their solution manual and also adhering to the actions described over. So if you aren’t sure, do the test.

Rodney L is a technical writer and product consultant with over a decade of experience in the motor industry. Rodney is a fan of performance machines that run fast and loud and an expert in all things custom. His numerous articles and write-ups are available at our knowledge base. Whether it’s something wrong with your motorcycle or you are building a custom bike, you can trust Rodney’s experience.

Leave a Comment