Lightning Light Switch

[DJC]

Hi - I have a question that for those who understand bike electrics is probably simple - but for me (an electrical numpty !) its beyond me.

I am restoring a 1966 Lightning. The light switch should be (as far as I understand it) the black round one that sits in the headlight shell under the ammeter. What I HAVE is the later 3 position toggle switch. The bike was a non runner when aquired but it must have been on the road like this at some point. I need to replace the headlight shell or get the original re-chromed but here is the conundrum. Its not possible (unless anyone knows different) to currently buy the correct shell with just the two holes in it - one for ammeter and one for round light switch. So I either go non standard with a shell that accepts the round switch but has extra 'idiot light' holes, or I go non standard and keep my toggle switch. So here is the question -  If I keep the toggle switch will the alternator still function as intended (which I think it will) - I always thought that part of the job of the light switch was to bring coils in/out as required to suit demand. The wiring diagrams however for both the round switch, and the toggle switch dont seem to suggest that either of the switches perform this function. I dont know if there are any differences in the alternator between 1966 spec and the later ones where the toggle switch would have been standard. I will be rewiring the bike with a new '66 spec loom and using an electronic regulator.
Any help or advice that will give me confidence that I'm doing nothing stupid (keep it simple please) greatly appreciated. Thanks

[LightningAndStarfire]

If you have an electronic regulator you will not have any problems. If zener diode regulation not yet had been introduced in 1966 (can someone pls enlighten?) you would had an alternator with more coils switched in for lights. I assume.

[JulianS]

1966 A65 had 12 volt zener controlled charging, alternator connected for maximum output and coil switching via lighting switch no longer used.

[DJC]

Thanks guys - thats given me the confidence that I wont blow the bike up !

[geraldhattrick75]

Bit late I know but just in case it helps, I'm in the process of re-wiring my 1965 A65 Lightning. It will have a solid state regulator/ Rectifier and Boyer ignition.
I'm intending to use the original harness, after stripping it down and tidying it up, and adding any new wires that might be needed....
I'm also thinking of fitting indicators and using LED bulbs.

I drew up this diagram to work from but which might help others (assuming it is correct. Please tell me if I have cocked it up....)

[DJC]

Thanks for the diagram. I'll keep it on file until the time comes for me to do the wiring (a long time off still). I intend to fit indicators and electronic ignition as well as you.

[geraldhattrick75]

The only point that will need confirming (or altering) is the switch terminal numbers, as it depends on which switch you get.

I started the whole diagram malarky by identifying what terminals on the switch connected to what other terminals in each of the 3 positions:
'Off'-   nothing connects to anything
'Low' (side light)-     Terminal 7 (12 volts live) connects to terminal 8 (so connect side, tail and speedo lights to terminal
'High' (Main beam)-  Terminal 7 (12 volts live) connects to terminal 6 (so connect main and dipped beam (via the handlebar dip switch)

Hope I'm making sense (which'll be a first), but feel free to ask questions anytime.

I'm starting to wire mine up now so I'll make alterations to the diagram as I need to and put the latest version of the diagram up as and when......

Please feel free to correct any errors that i might have made folks......

[geraldhattrick75]

Just in case it might help someone, here is my latest wiring diagram for the 1965 (ish) lightning.


I have fitted a wassal reg/ Rect, Boyer electronic ignition, indicators, LED bulbs and a Lucas 41SA switch.

The wiring is finished and,  by an amazing stroke of luck, the lights and horn work. I won't be able to test the ignition or Reg/ Rect until I start the engine, but I have wired them in in accordance with the appropriate instructions, so they ought to be ok (he said with fingers crossed......)

I can't guarantee anything. This is just how I have done mine and it seemed a shame to waste the diagram.

Dave.

[geraldhattrick75]

Oh, and the spark plugs emit sparkly sparks when I kick the engine over.....Only got to get the lubrication system and fuel system sorted..... ish.