After a few moments the ignition switch can be returned to the normal position. It
must be noted however, that as the current is being drawn from the lighting coils, an
emergency start can be made only when the lighting switch is in the “off” position.
Battery
Access to the battery is obtained by slackening the nuts on the upper suspension
unit bolts so that the seat can be lifted and pulled away to the rear.
About once a week take off the battery lid, remove the filler plugs from each of the
cells and examine the level of the electrolyte. If necessary, add sufficient distilled
water to bring the level of the electrolyte up to the top of the separators. Do not use
tap water and do not use a naked light when examining the conditions of the cells.
The condition of the battery should occasionally be checked by taking hydrometer
readings of the specific gravity of the electrolyte. If distilled water has been added a
reading should not be taken until after the machine has been used.
Never leave the battery in a discharged condition as it will suffer permanent
damage. When standing idle, the battery should be given a freshening charge at least
once a month. Twelve hours at one amp. is recommended. Keep the top of the
battery clean and smear the terminals with vaseline to prevent corrosion.
A positive earth wiring system is employed. Make sure that the battery is
connected correctly, i.e. with the positive (
+
) side of the battery connected to earth.
The coloured lead must be connected to the battery NEGATIVE (
–) terminal, and
the translucent (earth) lead to the battery POSITIVE (+
) terminal.
Running without a Battery
It is never advisable to run without a battery in circuit, for if the lights should be
inadvertently switched on whilst the engine is running, all bulbs will immediately
fuse. Furthermore, there is very real danger of burning out the rectifier.
If, however, it is imperative that the machine must be ridden without a battery the
rectifier must be completely disconnected at the snap connectors and all leads
properly insulated from each other and from earth.
Generator
The generator unit consists of two assemblies, namely, the flywheel rotor and the
stator which carries the ignition coil, low tension coils, contact breaker unit and
condenser. The cam is fitted to the extended crankshaft of the engine and is located
by a keyway.
The flywheel houses six laminated magnetic pole faces; it is self-keeping and may
be separated from the stator without any loss of magnetism.
The set requires very little maintenance and if the following points are observed
the life of the machine should prove trouble-free.
Check, and, if necessary, readjust the contacts once every 5,000 miles (see Page
13). Occasionally clean the contacts by inserting a dry smooth piece of paper
between them and withdrawing whilst the contacts are in the closed position, but take
care not to leave any paper between the contact faces. Do not allow the engine to run
with grease or petrol on the contacts or they will start to burn and blacken. In this
event, lightly polish with a piece of smooth emery cloth.
28
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