This Indian did come with modern electric lights. Earlier versions had used gas, but by 29 Splitdorf was producing a 6 volt DC generator, the DU-7, that was capable of just enough current to burn a headlight and single filament taillight. The DU-7 on my bike had been replaced along the way with a later Autolite unit off a Chief, which has a higher output, but can also put a lot of strain on the drive gear. With all of 15 HP at my disposal, extra drag is to be avoided!
Looking for alternatives, you have to consider a 12 volt system. Bulbs are easier to find, especially along the road, and current draws are reduced. Also, the pickings on 6 volt generators or alternators is slim. So I finally decided to use a small permanent magnet 12v alternator from a Kubota tractor. It is significantly smaller than the generator, and will produce enough current for my lights.
New 12v Alternator vs Autolite 6v Generator
I built the mounting brackets to fit the original bolt locations, and use the stock belt length. The solid state voltage regulator kind of looks out of place on an antique, but it will get the job done!
and
I had to modify the guard a little, and cuss a little, and adjust a little, but everything turned out pretty slick.
Wiring the bike came next. I had a piece of a reproduction wiring harness for a starter kit, and added additional wires for the brake light and new alternator. I mounted a traditional brake light switch,
and routed the wires to the taillight thru some copper tubing, just like the originals.
With the help of a dremel, I was able to get the single element socket out of the original taillight housing. A trip to AutoZone yielded a 12v dual element LED bulb and matching socket, and with a little solder the taillight was ready to go. A 12 volt bulb was substituted in the headlight, and all systems are go.
STOP
Really neat and elegant solution!
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