1949 WLA Battery Size

[1962300]

I have a stock 1949 WLA with its stock Battery Box.
The system is converted to 12 volt.
I currently have one of those very small batteries that I have spaced UP with a block of wood inside the battery box.

I have factory spotlights on the bike.
When I turn them on, the bike tends to die at idle; I think not enough juice at idle to feed the headlight + spots.

So...
Anyone had success at using a larger 12 volt battery that will still work in the battery box?
Anyone had success at maybe using a "Cycle Electric" Generator; that may push more juice through the system?

Thanks!

[vph-d]

If your 12v generator is working correctly, there shouldn't be a problem with spotlamps. The popular small Yuasa 12n5.5 12 volt conversion battery is borderline too small for anything other than basic ignition and lights. I've been using AGM 12v conversion batteries the last several years with good luck, and they are rated at 14 amps, rather than the Yuasa 5 1/2 amps. I got the Werker battery number from Ricky Noot's website, it's available at Batteries Plus.
VPH-D

[T. Cotten]

1952300!

The CE generator is the same as the OEM 12v generator in output.

Beware the 5.5 amp batteries are usually only good for a season.

...Cotten

[DCoul]

Do you have the model number for that batteries Plus 14 amp battery? Is it this one? Copied from Noot.

12 V Battery

WERKER Model WKA12-12F
(For Horsehoe Oil Tanks)
Kick Start ONLY
Generator Motors
No Acid - No problems
Can withstand heat and
vibration . . .
Length = 6"
Width = 3 3/4"
Height = 3 3/4"

What model number is the AGM if you don't mind. If it fits in the battery box anyway.

[vph-d]

DC,
Yes, that is the battery I'm using. I always hated the little 12n battery, as they needed weekly maintenance, and I'm lazy. My brother, however, is able to beat 2 seasons out of the little things.
VPH-D

[1962300]

I have a "45", so I do NOT have that horseshoe oil tank...
Just the tall square battery box.
Will have to measure and see if that model will slide in.

Anyone know how, with a volt meter, to check how many amps are flowing with my current tiny battery and 12 volt generator/regulator?

[Rubone]

The battery made for the stock horseshoe tank is the same one made for 45s. The box dimensions are identical.

[tfburke3]

I have a "45", so I do NOT have that horseshoe oil tank...
Just the tall square battery box.
Will have to measure and see if that model will slide in.

Anyone know how, with a volt meter, to check how many amps are flowing with my current tiny battery and 12 volt generator/regulator?

Most multimetrers with an amp function usually only go to 10A,and the gauge would be put between the battery pos.and everything else.You could use an auto tye 30 A temporary at battery.
Tom

[1962300]

I checked my battery today on my 1949 "45". What I have is a Power Source Sealed Battery #WP7L-BS (12V6Ah).
Has probably been in the box for 3 or 4 years.
Just concerned it doesn't have enough output for the Light + Spotlights.

[1962300]

Picked up a larger battery, that I will slide into the battery box this evening. That will make this batteries terminals live sideways in the box. So, I need to add in a cloth or piece of rubber, so the terminals / wires aren't up against the metal sidewall of the box.
Anyone make anything good to share for such a scenario?
Thanks

[jim d]

Check out a shoe repair shop, they have lots of materials of different thickness and density that can be cut to size.

[DCoul]

What battery did you pick up. Is it working sideways?

[1962300]

Yes it works sideways.

Bought it from a place called:
BATTERY SYSTEMS
3190 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach, CA
(562) 424-3735

Battery Model #
CB12120F2
$46.95

[DCoul]

Thank you. Can't pull up that model but I'll figure it out. Maybe use the old fashioned telephone.