Upgrading your classic BMW R100GS motorcycle with a modern Euro Motoelectrics system can significantly improve its reliability and performance. These notes are based on practical experience and provide guidance for installing a euro motoelectrics kit, focusing on key wiring modifications and physical mounting considerations. This guide assumes you are replacing the original voltage regulator and related wiring components with a new euro motoelectrics regulator/rectifier unit.
Mini Loom Wiring Modifications
When starting the installation, it’s crucial to remove all the old wiring associated with the original voltage regulator. This includes disconnecting the red lead from the starter, as it becomes redundant with the new system. The focus then shifts to the mini loom that previously connected to the old voltage regulator and starter components.
To begin modifying this mini loom, carefully open the black sheathing to access the internal wires. Locate the large rubber grommet where this loom passes through the top of the timing cover. This grommet needs to be removed and fitted to the field winding cable of the new euro motoelectrics kit – typically identified as the cable with two yellow wires attached to the field coils. Applying a lubricant like WD40 can help ease the grommet removal and installation onto the new cable without damage.
Next, identify the three-spade connector from the old voltage regulator and cut the light blue wires connected to it. Separate the two-spade connector (housing blue and black wires) from the bundle, ensuring its wires remain attached to the connector. The black wire in this connector should still have the single spade connector that originally connected to the starter solenoid. The blue wire that was just cut needs to be connected to the white wire of the new euro motoelectrics regulator/rectifier unit.
During final assembly, the black wire can be carefully tucked into the rear large rubber grommet at the top of the timing chest and reconnected to the starter solenoid.
General Connection Instructions for Euro Motoelectrics Kit
The euro motoelectrics kit, while offering a performance upgrade, may require some adaptation during installation depending on the specific motorcycle model. For the R100GS, consider these connection methods:
For the field windings (two yellow wires), using a two-pin waterproof connector, commonly found in trailer wiring accessories, is highly recommended. This allows for easy disconnection of the field windings should removal or replacement be necessary in the future.
Alt text: Waterproof two-pin connector used for connecting euro motoelectrics field windings on a BMW R100GS motorcycle, ensuring easy disconnection for maintenance.
The blue wire, as mentioned earlier, should be hardwired to the white wire of the regulator/rectifier unit for a secure and reliable connection.
To establish a connection that is live with the ignition, carefully access the bike’s main loom, ideally below or behind the steering head where a main four-pin connector is located. Within the sheathing behind this connector, you’ll find a crimped junction of typically four green wires – these are live when the ignition switch is on. Solder a fresh green wire from the euro motoelectrics kit to this bundle. A heavy-duty soldering iron is advisable to ensure sufficient heat for a strong solder joint. After soldering, re-wrap the junction with waterproof insulation tape to protect it from the elements. Attach a female spade connector to the free end of this new green wire. On the black wire from the regulator/rectifier unit, attach a male spade connector. These two spade connectors then connect to provide the ignition-live feed to the euro motoelectrics unit. Apply electrical grease from the kit to these connections to prevent corrosion.
For the red wires, solder the orange fuse wire from the euro motoelectrics kit and use shrink wrap for insulation. Finally, add the solder ring to connect to the battery positive terminal.
Physical Installation Notes
Mounting the euro motoelectrics regulator/rectifier unit may necessitate relocating existing relays. Fortunately, there are often pre-existing mounting points available on the R100GS frame that can be utilized. Consider mounting the regulator/rectifier upside down, with the wires pointing downwards towards the frame. Drill mounting holes as needed and ensure to clean off any paint around the mounting bolt locations to guarantee a good earth connection. Using washers on the rear mounting points might be required to space the unit slightly away from the frame to prevent interference. After securely mounting the unit, re-painting the cleaned mounting area is recommended to maintain a good earth and prevent corrosion over time.
Alt text: Location of euro motoelectrics regulator rectifier unit mounted upside down on a BMW R100GS frame, showing wiring orientation and secure attachment to ensure proper grounding.
By following these notes, upgrading your BMW R100GS with a euro motoelectrics system can be a straightforward process, enhancing your motorcycle’s electrical performance and reliability for years to come.
