Alternator & Generator Parts
About Alternator & Generator Parts
These are the replaceable pieces of a bike's generator or alternator, the part that makes electricity to run the lights and keep the battery charged. Riders buy them to repair a charging problem without replacing the whole unit, or to restore an older machine.
The listings here include alternator rotors and a stator, brushes, mounting gaskets, a generator strap, a bearing, and an alternator rotor puller. Most are listed for Harley-Davidson models, with some for Honda and Yamaha. Which pieces your bike uses depends on the design: a stator and rotor pair is common, and brushes are found on designs that use them. Match the part to the exact model and year, and replace gaskets when a unit comes off. Before you buy, make sure the problem is in the unit and not in the battery, regulator or wiring.
Brands here include Colony, Jims, Drag Specialties, Accel and Cometic. If you need a complete unit, see Alternators & Generators. A flat battery is often the first symptom, so look at Batteries too, and at Starter Motor Parts for starting repairs. The whole group is Electrical & Ignition Components.
FAQs on alternator and generator parts
What are the rotor and stator in an alternator?
In many motorcycle alternators the stator is the stationary set of windings and the rotor is the part that spins past it. Together they make the electricity. The exact design depends on the model, so use the part listed for your bike.
What are brushes for in an alternator or generator?
On designs that use them, brushes carry current to the spinning part and wear down over time. Replace them when they are worn to the limit in your manual, and check the surface they run on.
When do I need a rotor puller?
The rotor can be a tight fit on its shaft, and a puller removes it without damage. Use the tool listed for your model, and do not pry or hammer on the rotor, which can break it.
Does a charging problem always mean the alternator is bad?
No. A weak battery, a faulty regulator or rectifier, or damaged wiring can look the same. Test the battery and the charging output against the figures in your service manual before you replace parts.
Should I fit a new gasket when I remove a generator?
Yes. A mounting gasket seals the unit to the engine, and it can be damaged when the unit comes off. Fitting a new one helps prevent oil leaks. Use the gasket listed for your model.