Hello everyone I'm in need of help. I have a 1996 454 Bearcat and at high speeds (typically anything over third or so gear) the lights on the pod dim to the point where they go out until the ATV comes back to an idle. What can be the cause of this? Thanks i advance.

 

I'd check charging voltage at an idle and at higher rpms back to the battery and see if it drops,(weak regulator/rectifier) plus check battery connections along with having the battery load tested for a dead cell if charging isn't the problem. Sounds like a voltage drain taken from the battery at higher speeds which could affect the light dimming.

 

Thanks for the quick reply. I have noticed the battery voltage drops at higher rpm. The battery however is brand new and fully charged. When I put my multimeter leads on the battery posts at idle it charges at a little more than 13 volts but when I give it gas the voltage drops. When I release the gas the voltage returns to about 13 volts. Are theses signs of a bad regulator/rectifier? Thanks.

 

Yes, a reg/rectifier should charge between 14 to 14.5 volts on most 12 volt systems including cars. Some of the older systems only start charging off idle,but still 13 volts is barely enough to keep the battery up with the ignition and lights,etc in use. Probably the source of the light dimming.

 

Ok thanks. Can this also cause the atv to stall when it gets hot and not turn back on until it cools? I have been having this problem as well and wondering if they can be related. Thanks again.

 

Not that familiar with the Artic Cat electrical systems,but if the battery voltage drops,then it's possible. I'd rule out any mechanical problem also with at least checking valve clearance and a compression test.If valves are too tight or excess piston to cylinder clearance,as engines get hot you can lose compression and die,then once cooled down they are able to start again.