Geekmaster
Member
Based on information I received from RadioFlyer and AntonLargiader, I decided to replace the stock voltage regulator in my 2014 BMW R1200RT with the Shindengen SH847. Because it is a series-style instead of a shunt-style regulator, it purports to run the stator cooler, hopefully increasing the life of this expensive part. I purchased the regulator from Roadstercycle.com, who reported that a bench-tested Yamaha stator ran at 100 degrees with the SH847 vs. 200 degrees with a stock shunt-style regulator. Normally they just sell a complete R/R kit with additional wiring, but will sell the regulator by itself if you contact them. As has been mentioned, it's a tight fit, so I thought I'd share some pictures and the steps I took to replace it.
Normally, you're supposed to be able to replace the voltage regulator by just removing the left side panel immediately in front of the rear wheel. However, that was much too tight for installing this regulator. So, I removed the exhaust and rear wheel. Then I removed the lower plastic guard inside the wheel well, which gave good access to the regulator. I also removed both seats. Then I lifted up the electronic module under the front seat, which then exposed the top side of the regulator mount.
As AntonLargiader did, I made a paper template of the SH847 and used that to drill two mounting holes. I then purchased longer 5mm x 35mm stainless steel screws with the smallest head. I mounted the screws from the top and used Loctite to ensure they won't vibrate loose. Finally, since the screw heads are not recessed, I covered them with electrical tape so they don't rub on the bottom of the electronic module.
As has been said, it's a very tight fit, but it should work well. It started fine, and did not throw any codes after running for about 10 minutes. Unfortunately it's winter here so it wasn't a good day to take it out for a ride.
Here's some pictures of the install:
Comparison of the SH847 and the original (the SH847 is the bigger one):
Holes drllled from the top:
Top view after mounting:
Rear view from inside the rear wheel well after mounting:
Normally, you're supposed to be able to replace the voltage regulator by just removing the left side panel immediately in front of the rear wheel. However, that was much too tight for installing this regulator. So, I removed the exhaust and rear wheel. Then I removed the lower plastic guard inside the wheel well, which gave good access to the regulator. I also removed both seats. Then I lifted up the electronic module under the front seat, which then exposed the top side of the regulator mount.
As AntonLargiader did, I made a paper template of the SH847 and used that to drill two mounting holes. I then purchased longer 5mm x 35mm stainless steel screws with the smallest head. I mounted the screws from the top and used Loctite to ensure they won't vibrate loose. Finally, since the screw heads are not recessed, I covered them with electrical tape so they don't rub on the bottom of the electronic module.
As has been said, it's a very tight fit, but it should work well. It started fine, and did not throw any codes after running for about 10 minutes. Unfortunately it's winter here so it wasn't a good day to take it out for a ride.
Here's some pictures of the install:
Comparison of the SH847 and the original (the SH847 is the bigger one):
Holes drllled from the top:
Top view after mounting:
Rear view from inside the rear wheel well after mounting: