Delay in Alternator Charging...

[Shootdaroc]

I have a 1995 GL1500 Aspencade with 133k miles. The previous owner had put a Show Chrome Voltage meter on it which has red/yellow/green lights. Normally the first green light is always on showing a proper charge. Occasionally the green light would flicker or go out at idle, but come right back on once the RPMs went up. I noticed last summer that when I start the bike the red & yellow lights where on but not the green light. About 5-10 minutes later the green light would come on as well and stay on during the ride.

I put a volt meter on the battery today and found the battery was 13.1vt with the bike off. After starting the bike and no green light it was 12.1vt. Once the green light came on it was charging 13.5 - 13.9vt. I keep a battery tender on it when parked and have never had a battery/charging/starting problem. The battery was replaced in 10/20 with a AGM 350cca battery only because it was 5 years old.

I searched and did not find anyone having this issue. I did read about relay #6 and could that cause a delay in charging. Does this sound like the Alternator is ready to take a crap? Thanks...

[Rambozo]

Time to check the wiring going to the alternator to make sure it is getting a start signal. The GL1800s have an alternator start delay, but I've not heard of that in a 1500.
Is it a stock Hitachi alternator or aftermarket?
Running at 3000 rpm you should be seeing 13.8 to 14.2 at the battery. Depending on loads and idle speed, it could dip lower than that at idle, but should recover as soon as the rpms go up. (no delay)

[DenverWinger]

1500's have no delay like the 1800's.

Quite possibly it's time to service the commutator brushes in the alternator, at 133k miles they are probably worn and sticking - start making contact after engine vibration gets them loosened.

[Shootdaroc]

I agree that it's most likely time to replace the brushes in the alternator.
Just wasn't sure why it would work after it "warmed up".
While researching that, I had read:
The alternator's carbon brushes are sticking in their holders or are worn out.
Sometimes heat from arcing improves a connection.
But I also like the idea that the engine vibration possibly gets them loosened.
So, I guess it's time for an overhaul of alternator and new dampeners...
Thanks for your replies...