So will a 2003 FJR be able to support THESE accessories?

[sfalexi]

I'm new to biking and have no clue about this alternator stuff.  But I just bought an '03 FJR and here's my plans . . . it may not end up being all this, but I'd like to know if it's possible in case it DOES end up being all this . . .

Garmin GPS (I'll probably stick with my 2610)
Heated seats (probably Sargent)
two sets of Widder heated vest, arm-chaps, and gloves
CB radio for rider to rider and rider to passenger ommunication
an auxiliary power outlet to charge my ipod or phone or something while I ride

That's all the "power sucking" stuff I plan to have on there (eventually, little by little).  Will I need to change the battery or alternator or something or would the stock FJR alternator do it? Thanks

Alexi

[Stray Cat]

The heated gear will be the largest draw on your system. Running two sets will more then likely put you over the output of the charging system.
Check the FJR forum, those guys have farkled the living daylights out of their bikes, and I believe also can recommend a larger output stator.
www.fjrforum.com

[sfalexi]

Thank you for the link.  I'll check it out.

Alexi

[James]

I believe you'll need the aftermarket stator sold here:

http://www.electrosport.com/street/street-model-products-listing-street_65950.php

I'm told they're easy to install. You might also want a Datel voltmeter found here:

http://www.digitalmeter.com/cgi-bin/webshop.cgi?config=configspc.txt&uid=cikuaiwi121034414258&command=link--MiscPics.html

Good luck.

[Wild72]

In relation to the Widder stuff, my understanding is that the company Widder are closing their doors at the end of 2008, so will not be available for any warranty or other repairs. Doesn't help if you already own this stuff, but if you are thinking of buying heated gear, you might want to check out the other manufacturers like Gerbings, Tourmaster or Warm and Safe, which should all hopefully be around for quite some time.

There is also a company making battery operated vests and gloves. Don't know how they perform, but it would save having to replace the stator.

[HIGHLANDER]

You have about 120 watts to spare on a 03. Add up the electric gear and seat and see if your over 120. I believe you will be over with the limit. I wired in a switch to kill a headlight and picked up some watts when I ran a vest and a set of Hellas. Add a Datel meter so you can watch the battery reserve and not kill the battery, below 12.5 and your asking for battery trouble.

[Prog Rocker]

Everyone's criteria would be different, but if it was me and something had to go, since I had electric clothing already, that would eliminate the need for heated seats...if still not enough juice, then next would be outlet for the iPod and stuff...while convenient, it would not be vital.


Then again, the alternator output on a 2009 FJR is so much higher than a 2003 model, yet the farklers still complain that it isn't enough, eh?  



I hope that this helps!



Cheers

[lilwing]

I have an '03 with a heated seat, GPS (through a 12 volt socket), heated grips and a J&M CB/Weather radio that I also run an MP3 player through.  I have a digital volt meter as well and have not encountered any problems.

[sfalexi]

I have an '03 with a heated seat, GPS (through a 12 volt socket), heated grips and a J&M CB/Weather radio that I also run an MP3 player through.  I have a digital volt meter as well and have not encountered any problems.

excellent! That's exactly what I was looking for. (actually not a bad setup either....I may copy it a bit....)

[HIGHLANDER]

excellent! That's exactly what I was looking for. (actually not a bad setup either....I may copy it a bit....)

Problem is you didn't add in the Widder gear...........
Each vest 33 to 48 watts per vest depending on size ( and Widder is the lowest watt consuming vest )
Gloves 20W per set
Chaps 20W per set

So for two sets of gear your at 146 to 176 W.. add in the 20w for the seat... your WAY over the 110W extra voltage the bike has.

[JimWilliamson]

Yep. MP3 players, GPSs, digicams, futz-busters, many radios are small draws in comparison to heated gear and high wattage lights.

edit: A thought - the wattage values of heated gear is for when they are run at MAX. If you're running an on/off style thermostat vs. an older style rheostat they're only continually pulling max wattage at 100% duty cycle. At 70% duty cycle you're only pulling max 70% of the time (allowing 30% down-time for battery charge). While it's good to plan for 100% use, you can get away with being "close to the charging system edge" if you don't keep the heaters cranked.

Knowing your "allowance" and the draw of each non-essential item is good. If you have'm on different, controllable circuits you can adjust on the fly. The downside is that the big draws line-up to be used at the same time - cold night driving. Do you go for more light and less heat or less light and more heat. Something to keep the mind amused on that dark, cold empty road. Or burn'm both as the trip's end is near and some excessive battery draw won't drain the batt too much before all is turned off.